Rough terrain forkllifts, designed for operation in off-road and challenging outdoor environments, commonly use specific types of tires to enhance their performance on various surfaces. The choice of tire greatly impacts the forklift's stability, traction, and maneuverability. Here are the common types of tires used on rough terrain forklifts and their impact on different surfaces:

Pneumatic Tires: Pneumatic tires are similar to those used on automobiles and trucks. They are filled with air and provide good shock absorption and traction. Pneumatic tires are suitable for rough terrain forklifts operating on gravel, dirt, mud, and uneven surfaces. They offer a cushioned ride and stability on rough ground but are susceptible to punctures.

Cushion Tires: Cushion tires are solid rubber or polyurethane tires and are well-suited for indoor and smooth-surface applications. They offer durability and a stable ride but are not typically used on rough terrain forklifts, as they lack the necessary traction for off-road use.

Solid Pneumatic Tires: Solid pneumatic tires are a compromise between pneumatic and cushion tires. They are made of solid rubber but have a tread pattern resembling that of pneumatic tires. They provide good traction on rough terrain while eliminating the risk of punctures.

Non-Marking Tires: Non-marking tires are typically cushion or solid pneumatic tires with special compounds that do not leave black marks on indoor floors. They are ideal for indoor-outdoor forklifts used in environments where floor cleanliness is a concern.

Turf Tires: Turf tires have a unique tread design that minimizes ground disturbance. They are commonly used on golf course maintenance and landscaping forklifts. Turf tires are suitable for grassy and sensitive surfaces.

Aggressive Tread Tires: These tires have deep, aggressive treads designed for maximum traction on extremely rough or muddy terrains. They are often used in construction and agricultural settings.

Foam-Filled Tires: Foam-filled tires are puncture-proof and provide good stability and traction on rough terrain. They are a durable option for challenging outdoor environments.

The choice of tires should be based on the specific application and the type of surfaces the rough terrain forklift will operate on. Pneumatic tires are generally the preferred choice for forklifts operating in construction sites, lumberyards, or agricultural settings with uneven, unpaved, and muddy surfaces. Solid pneumatic tires offer durability without the risk of flats. Turf tires are ideal for landscaping and grassy areas, while cushion or non-marking tires are more suitable for indoor or warehouse environments.

Selecting the right tires for a rough terrain forklift is crucial to ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of the equipment while minimizing wear and tear on various surfaces.