Michelin is using the occasion of this year’s LAMMA Show to host an exclusive UK preview of its all-new AxioBib 2 tyre range, allowing farmers and contractors to view the new agricultural tyre ahead of the planned international launch in June 2017.
The LAMMA Show marks the first time the new tyre range has been exhibited in the UK. From June, the new tyres will be available in two dimensions, Very High Flexion VF650/65 R42 and VF540/65 R30 for 160hp to 320hp tractors with further sizes being added later in the year. The new range bridges the gap between Michelin’s proven XeoBib (120hp to 220hp) and AxioBib (300+hp) ranges and is designed to meet the rising trend for tyres that can carry high loads at lower pressures.
Gordon Brookes, Michelin’s Customer Engineering Support Manager, says: “AxioBib 2 stands out for its exceptional load capacity from its VF construction and 650mm section width, which we expect will make it a firm favourite for ploughing. Farmers also tell us they prefer a 42” rim over 38” variants, meaning this tyre should hit the sweet-spot for many.”
The tyres also carry the Narrow Rim Option (NRO) markings on the sidewall, which confirm their higher load capacity without the need for farmers to upgrade to wider wheel rims. Each VF 650/65 R42 AxioBib 2 tyre is also capable of carrying an extra 2,450kg at 65kph than the same size of MultiBib, making it particularly desirable given the increasing weight of new farm machinery, and can operate at speeds up to 70kph.
When set at optimum pressures, VF tyres provide significant benefits in terms of traction, soil protection and fuel economy compared to conventional technology tyres, thanks to an enlarged footprint.
The Michelin Group is also launching the new Kleber Cropker tyre range for agricultural sprayers and trailed equipment at LAMMA. The tyres will be initially available in eight sizes including 230/95 R32 and 270/95 R54 for 80 to 200hp machines.
The refreshed Kleber Cropker range offers an increased load capacity, a 10 per cent load bonus at 40kph and an increased speed index of 65kph. The tyres offer an excellent performance rating, helping farmers and contractors increase efficiency while minimising impact on crops.
All Kleber tyres are built with robust casings and are designed for a long service life, even under heavy loads. The tyres’ shoulders are shaped to ensure good crop protection, helping to increase yields – a major plus for farmers facing the challenge of producing more for an ever-increasing population.
Both tyres are featured at the LAMMA Show at the East of England Showground (18-19 January 2017) on Michelin Group stand G33.
