Goodyear Launches New Regional Haul Range

A new range of tyres for regional haul trucks with 17.5 and 19.5 inch wheels has been unveiled by Goodyear. The Goodyear Regional RHS II (Regional Haul Steer) and Regional RHD II (Regional Haul Drive) tyres are intended to cover a wide spectrum of applications and are suitable for all seasons use. In comparison with the products they replace, says Goodyear, the new tyres, which feature the company’s KMax Technology, offer greater mileage, improved traction and braking in wet and dry conditions as well as good handling and stability. KMax Technology, explains Goodyear, is designed for tyres fitted to vehicles operating in frequent stop-start traffic conditions, with high lateral forces on twisty roads and roundabouts, higher powered engines and an increasing use of retarders.

Today, comments Goodyear, regional haul and distribution is one of the widest transport sectors in terms of both the variety of vehicles operating in it and the enormous range of applications. Trucks from 7.5 tonnes up to 16 tonnes GVW provide the platform for the operators. From door-to-door parcel deliveries to intercity transport with vehicles carrying ambient, refrigerated, high volume and every type of product, long life and the highest level of reliability are essential. Thus, the Regional tyres are built for a long tough life in all conditions and seasons.

Regional Steer Tyre

The new Regional RHS II tyre features a wide five rib tread, which is unique to the 17.5” and 19.5” sizes, with “Flexomatic” blading on the centre ribs and rib edge blading. The Flexomatic tread features tread blocks that are designed to lock together when in compression and stabilise the tread area. The benefits are high mileage, good wet braking and even wear, which mean better economy. To further enhance long life, the groove geometry has been developed to reduce stone holding. Durability and damage resistance are further improved by new carcass geometry and materials along with an improved bead construction. In all, the new tyre is a product for all season service, which Goodyear comments will keep down costs due to its long life. And although the RHD II is a drive tyre specifically designed to match the performance of the RHS II, the RHS II can be used as an all position tyre.

Regional Drive Tyre

The new Regional RHD II tyre also features a wide tread that is unique to these rim sizes. The pattern has a low void ratio, meaning there is a large amount of rubber in contact with the road. The high density of the blading and a specific block distribution in the centre ribs are combined with 3D BIS blades. According to Goodyear, excellent traction and braking in wet and wintry conditions are provided by 3D-BIS, due to the high number of edges the tyre footprint presents as it meets the road surface. When in the footprint, the blades, which have profiles that look like waffles, interlock to form a stiff row of blocks, which ensures good handling and stability.

The new tyres are available in the following sizes:

Available in September 2008
· 205/75R17.5 124/122 M
· 215/75R17.5 126/124 M
· 225/75R17.5 129/127 M
· 265/70R19.5 140/138 M

To be introduced later in 2008
· 235/75R17.5 132/130 M
· 245/70R17.5 136/134 M
· 265/70R17.5 139/136 M
· 245/70R19.5 136/134 M
· 285/70R19.5 146/144 (144/142) M (L)