When it comes to farm productivity, one of the most overlooked but important factors is your tractor’s tires. The right tire can improve traction, reduce fuel consumption, and increase efficiency across various terrains—especially in Malaysia, where we deal with everything from paddy fields to palm oil plantations.
This guide breaks down the main types of tractor tires, how to read their sizes, and tips specifically for Malaysian farmers and agri-businesses.
Different terrains require different types of tires. Here's a quick look at the most common ones used across Malaysia:
These are the standard tractor tires you’ll find on most farms. They have deep lugs for excellent grip on soft soil, making them ideal for:
General farming
Oil palm estates
Light muddy fields
However, they wear out faster on paved roads.
Similar to R1 but with deeper treads, R1W tires are designed for:
Wet and muddy soil
Rainy-season farming
Slippery plantation tracks
Farmers in East Malaysia often prefer these for better grip in hilly or damp terrain.
These are made for extreme wet conditions, such as:
Flooded rice fields
Swampy farms
Their ultra-deep lugs provide powerful traction in waterlogged fields but are not suitable for road use.
Turf tires are used where soil damage must be minimized. You’ll find these on:
Landscaping tractors
Golf courses
Estate management machines
They have a flatter, gentler tread pattern.
These are a hybrid between farm and industrial use:
Suitable for mixed terrain (concrete, gravel, and soil)
Used on backhoe loaders and tractors working on roads and fields
R4 tires are a good choice for oil palm mills or farms that require some road driving.
There are two systems: Imperial (inches) and Metric (millimetres).
12.4 = Tire width in inches
24 = Rim diameter in inches
320 = Width in mm
85 = Sidewall height is 85% of width
R28 = Radial construction, fits a 28" rim
Both formats are used in Malaysia, so it's important to understand both when buying or replacing tires.
Front tires: 6.00-16, 7.50-16, 9.5-24
Rear tires: 12.4-28, 13.6-28, 14.9-28, 16.9-30
Know your terrain: Wet, muddy, or hilly farms require different tires than dry or mixed-use areas.
Watch the weather: In rainy seasons, go for deeper treads like R1W or R2.
Consider secondhand options: Many durable used tires are available at lower prices.
Use ballast: Filling rear tires with water or calcium improves traction on slopes.
Avoid paved roads with deep-lug tires: They wear down quickly.
Check tire pressure regularly—especially after long fieldwork or transport.
Avoid overloading your tractor or trailer to prevent sidewall damage.
Rotate tires if needed, especially on 4WD tractors.
At Roda Land, we’ve helped hundreds of Malaysian farmers choose the right tires for their needs. Whether you're running an estate, a smallholding, or a plantation, we can assist with:
Tire sizing
Price comparisons (new and used)
On-ground recommendations
Contact us on WhatsApp or follow us on TikTok for quick advice. Your tractor works hard—make sure it’s rolling on the right rubber.
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