US manufacturer Cooper Tire has launched a new winter tire aimed specifically at regional hauler operations. The Roadmaster RM258 WD is geared firmly toward adverse conditions found in winter, and is Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified.
The tire features an open shoulder design with four rows of lugs, which, combined with shoulder notches, chevron grooves, a deep 26/32nds (20.6mm) tread and full-depth 3D siping in the lugs, aids traction.
The foundation of the RM258 WD is its four-steel belt construction, which enables multiple retreads. Additionally, tie bars in the shoulders keep the tread from squirming, which helps with uniform wear, and stone ejectors in the tread grooves help keep small rocks from drilling into the casing, improving casing life.
“This Roadmaster tire is all about traction,” said Gary Schroeder, executive director of Cooper’s Global Truck and Bus Tire Business. “The tire features an entirely new tread pattern and curb guards, coupled with enhanced compounding, to ensure excellent performance around town, including when hitting curbs and while on the interstate.”
Meanwhile, in the off-highway market, Alliance Tire Group has announced a new range of sizes for its Galaxy Garden Pro series of mixed service, radial tires. These tires are targeted specifically for use on utility tractors operating in orchards, vineyards and gardens. They feature a deep tread to aid traction while still minimizing soil compaction, thanks to a rounded open shoulder. The new sizes available are 480/70R30, 380/70R20, 260/70R18, 480/70R28 and 340/85R28.
