Northumberland-based J.O. Straughan & Co Ltd has taken delivery of what is believed to be the biggest-wheeled agricultural tractor operating in the north east of England, specifying its new range-topping Fendt 1050 Vario on Michelin AxioBib IF 900/65 R46 and IF 710/60 R38 tyres.
J.O. Straughan & Co Ltd has opted for tyres instead of tracks for their vehicles
Operations Manager David Dickinson said he specified a machine with tyres over tracks due to significant advances in tyre technology since they’d bought the Challenger that it replaces nine years ago. He says: “These new Michelin tyres are on a par for traction with the best track systems available, even on very wet days. And if you are doing a lot of road work, they are in a different league altogether when it comes to handling and ride comfort.”
Commenting on the decision to specify Michelin tyres, Straughan adds: “We had a choice of tyre manufacturers, but we’ve always favoured Michelin. It’s not just the tyres we’re buying, but access to the technical knowledge and support of our local Michelin account manager, Ian Whitwell.”
Measuring 2.32m high by 0.9m wide, the AxioBib IF 900/65 R46 fitments are the largest tractor tyres manufactured by Michelin. They offer a per-tyre load capacity of 10,600 kg and are rated for a maximum speed of up to 65 km/h. Manufactured with Michelin Ultraflex technology, they can operate at pressures as low as 0.8 bar, enabling farmers to benefit from the biggest possible footprint without compacting the soil.
They also incorporate smart design features including deep lugs and a wide tread, which reduce wheel slip and help to make full use of the tractor’s power. The tyres also feature a reinforced bead construction, which can absorb the highest forces while keeping the tyre fixed on the rim. This helps the Fendt 1050 Vario to transmit all its engine torque without harming the soil.
