What is a TBR tyre? Structure, classification and how to choose a radial truck tyre

What are the parts of a TBR tyre?

A TBR tyre for trucks, container tractor units and buses has five main parts. Each part performs its own function, and the durability of the tyre depends on how they work together.

• Tread: the part that contacts the road surface; the tread pattern determines grip, service life and noise.
• Steel belts (belts): crossing layers of steel belts pressed under the tread, keeping the tread flat and resistant to punctures.
• Radial steel ply (casing): the load-bearing frame of the tyre, arranged radially from one bead to the other.
• Sidewall: the rubber section that protects the casing and continuously flexes as the tyre rolls.
• Bead: a steel wire ring that holds the tyre firmly onto the rim.

How does a TBR tyre differ from a bias tyre?

In short: a TBR (radial) tyre has plies arranged at right angles to the direction of travel, with steel belts pressed under the tread; a bias (cross-ply) tyre has plies crossing each other at an angle of about 30–40°. Radial tyres usually generate less heat and roll more easily, while bias tyres are usually more resistant to impact.

Tread pattern code: the final letter indicates the fitment position

According to the convention table in the Guizhou Tyre truck tyre catalogue, tread pattern names follow a fixed rule. The final letter indicates the fitment position on the vehicle, while the second letter indicates the application group. For example, GL278A belongs to the long-haul group (L) and can be fitted in any position (A), while GL663D is a tread pattern for the drive axle (D).

The + sign after a tread pattern name (e.g. GL618A+) denotes a reinforced bead design, while ULT denotes the Ultra design according to the manufacturer’s designation.

Rim sizes and commonly used vehicle types

Rim diameter is the quickest way to tell which vehicle group a TBR tyre specification serves. The table below groups the sizes currently in the Advance Tyre catalogue by rim.

Choosing a TBR tyre: five things to check

1. Correct size and rim: the specification must match the rim and the tyre size recorded in the vehicle inspection record. See how to read tyre sizes in the truck tyre specification guide.
2. Sufficient load index: the load index of each tyre must be greater than or equal to the actual load on each wheel. Use the tyre selection tool by load for a quick calculation.
3. Correct fitment position: choose the tread pattern by axle (steer, drive, trailer or all positions).
4. Suited to the route: long-haul, intra-provincial or routes with construction-site sections determine the tread pattern and tread depth.
5. Maintain correct pressure: pressure is the factor with the greatest effect on tyre life; see truck tyre pressure.

Frequently asked questions

Is a TBR tyre an ordinary truck tyre?

A TBR tyre is a radial-structure tyre for trucks and buses. It differs from a bias (cross-ply) tyre in the direction of the plies and the steel belt layer under the tread, so TBR tyres usually run cooler and roll more easily on long-distance routes.

Do TBR tyres use inner tubes?

It depends on the specification. Some specifications are tubeless (TL), while others are supplied as a tyre set with inner tube and flap (TTF). The product page for each specification states the supply format.

Can TBR tyres be regrooved or retreaded?

A radial tyre with a sound casing can usually be repaired or retreaded at a facility with trained staff. Ask the technical department whether your specification is applicable, and see the repair section in the technical handbook.

How do I buy TBR tyres from SAMSON and ADVANCE?

This website accepts quotation requests and does not sell online: add the specifications to a quotation request and submit it; the sales team replies within 24 working hours.