Serving the agricultural industry isn’t easy. Farmers work long hours in tough conditions and rely on their equipment. That equipment must perform reliably while maximizing crop yields. Ag tires play a critical role, handling heavy loads, rough terrain, long seasons, and unpredictable weather. Tire dealers who service farm customers must stay current on ag tire trends, market shifts, and evolving end-user needs. Those who provide the right products, support, and service at the right time earn customer loyalty.
Market Growth & Ag Tire Trends
A mix of global and domestic pressures continues to shape ag tire trends and the agricultural market. These include shifting trade policies, unpredictable weather, and evolving government programs. Minoo D. Mehta, managing director of BKT USA Inc., says the U.S. ag tire outlook remains cautious but resilient.
“Farmers are prioritizing the maintenance of existing equipment over new investments, supporting steady demand for replacement tires,” he says. “Despite some potential headwinds, including supply chain fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainty, the sector continues to show resilience. If broader conditions stabilize, modest but consistent growth could define the next phase for ag tires in the U.S. market.”
Mehta says the ag tire segment has changed significantly due to technology, new solutions, and farming practice shifts.
“One of the most notable shifts is the increasing adoption of radial tires, especially for implement applications, due to their improved performance and durability,” he says. “Alongside this are advancements in tire technology, such as the introduction of the innovative VF (Very High Flexion) technology, which allows for heavy loads at lower inflation pressure compared to standard and IF (Increased Flexion) tires. This has helped to minimize soil compaction without sacrificing load capacity, thus preserving the agricultural productivity of the crops.”
One ag tire trend is the growing use of Central Tire Inflation Systems (CTIS) enables operators to adjust tire pressure from the cab. This allows for optimized field traction and better on-road fuel efficiency, according to Mehta. He adds that no-till farming influences tire requirements, since equipment must perform on crop stubble and uneven ground.
“Meanwhile, the increasing size, weight and horsepower of modern agricultural machinery — especially in planting, seeding and tillage — has created demand for tires that combine load-bearing capacity with high-speed stability,” he says. “This has led to innovations in tread geometry and casing design, aimed at enhancing comfort, safety and fuel economy.”
Tire Technology Meets End-User Priorities
Farmers and ag professionals seek tire features that improve efficiency, boost productivity, and increase operational comfort. According to Mehta, traction remains a top priority. It enhances field performance and reduces fuel use, especially as costs rise.
“Another critical factor is minimizing soil compaction, as lower compaction helps preserve soil structure and supports better crop yields,” he says. “Once again, technologies like IF and VF tires play a major role here, enabling machines to carry heavier loads at lower pressures, thereby protecting the soil while maintaining high performance.”
Roadability and comfort also rank among top ag tire trends. Agricultural machines often travel between fields and roads.
Mehta says tire features like a 45-degree lug angle provide smoother road rides, reduce wear, and extend life. That ride quality reduces fatigue and increases productivity for operators who spend long hours in the cab.
“Users also demand greater reliability, with fewer tire- and machine-related failures,” he says. “This need is met through advances in tire compounds, reinforced constructions, and innovative tread designs that increase durability under tough conditions.”
Mehta adds that demand is growing for a wider range of IF and VF tires. Manufacturers have responded by expanding their portfolios to meet operational needs.
“As these technologies become more widespread, manufacturers are expanding their portfolios to meet diverse operational needs, further enhancing the performance and value offered by modern ag tires,” he says.
Ag Tire Trends & Going Above & Beyond
To succeed, ag tire dealers must go beyond matching replacement tires. They should act as expert partners to their customers.
Dealers must consider equipment, soil types, workloads, and applications when making recommendations, according to Mehta.
“The most resilient dealers also deliver high-level after-sales service, both in-store and directly on farms, ensuring that customers receive prompt support when and where they need it most,” he says. “In the event of an issue, the presence of dealers facilitates efficient warranty claim processes and fast settlements, minimizing downtime and keeping machines in operation during critical farming periods.”
Dealers maintain reliable delivery schedules to ensure timely tire availability. They also invest in mobile equipment to provide on-site service, Mehta adds.
Dealers should always schedule on-site ag tire service before planting and harvesting.
Maintenance & Inspection Guidance
Regular tire maintenance ensures ag equipment performs safely, efficiently, and reliably over time. Dealers should encourage customers to conduct routine tire checks. They should also assist with seasonal maintenance and detailed inspections when needed.
“Farmers are advised to visually inspect their tires daily, especially before starting work, to check for any visible damage, underinflation, or foreign objects that could lead to failures in the field,” Mehta says. “In addition, tire pressure should be checked at least once a week, as even small fluctuations can significantly affect traction, fuel efficiency and soil compaction.”
Dealers should schedule on-site service before planting and harvesting. These periods involve intense use, and reliability becomes critical. These pre-season checks help ensure machines are ready and avoid unexpected failures, according to Mehta.
“Dealers should also be prepared to respond promptly whenever tire failures or issues arise, providing fast and effective support to minimize downtime,” he says. “This proactive approach not only helps farmers maintain productivity but also strengthens the dealer-customer relationship through reliable, value-added service.”
According to Mehta, inspections should begin with a visual check for damage like cracks or deep cuts. Technicians must also verify correct pressure, tread depth, and early signs of failure. This includes bulging sidewalls, exposed cords, or punctures needing immediate repair.
“In addition to the tires themselves, attention should be given to wheels, valves and caps, ensuring they are in good condition and properly secured,” he says. “Uneven tread wear is often a sign of improper inflation, misalignment or mechanical issues, and it can signal the need for adjustments or replacements.”
Replacement Considerations
Several conditions indicate that a tire may need replacing. These include worn tread, deep stubble punctures, and irreparable cuts.
Mehta says dealers should check past repairs. If patches begin to fail, replacing the tire may be safer and more cost-effective.
When recommending replacements, dealers must consider a range of factors. These ensure the best fit for the customer’s specific situation. Mehta listed several key considerations:
- Bias vs. radial: Radial tires improve performance, but bias tires may suit lighter-duty or low-speed operations.
- Match the tire to its task: planting, harvesting, or heavy tillage require different performance characteristics.
- Understand the machine’s load: load capacity directly affects tire performance.
- Check inflation specs: proper pressure ensures safe and efficient operation.
- Balance road and field use: some tires focus on road handling; others optimize field traction and flotation.
“For machines with mechanical front-wheel drive (MFWD), it’s critical to ensure the correct front and rear tire match, as improper sizing can lead to drivetrain damage or premature tire wear,” Mehta says. “Lastly, dealers should always guide customers toward high-quality brands, such as BKT, that offer proven durability, advanced technology, and strong after-sales support. By carefully assessing these factors, dealers can help farmers get the best performance, value and reliability from their new tires.”
Ag Tires in BKT’s Line-Up
BKT offers a range of ag tires. Mehta says several models stand out with farmers, contractors, and specialty users.
- The AGRIMAX RT 855 radial tire delivers excellent traction and stability in varied field and transport conditions. For row crop and spraying needs, farmers prefer the AGRIMAX SPARGO for its performance and durability.
- The AGRIMAX V-FLECTO features VF tech that carries heavy loads at lower pressure. This protects soil and boosts efficiency. The AGRIMAX FORCE, with IF technology, suits soil tillage, haulage, and harvest work, according to Mehta.
- BKT also serves implement applications. Mehta highlights RIB 713 and SR 713, both available in stubble-resistant compounds. The I-1 tire remains one of the most commonly used for field transport and soil tillage.
- Finally, Mehta says both the AGRIMAX RT 945 and RT 765 offer strong traction and long service life across various soil types.
