35% longer tyre life, along with improved traction and increased carrying capacity – the claim for the Michelin’s new MultiBib range, which replaces the firm’s best-selling low profile tyre, the XM108, this autumn.

Available in 13 sizes for tractors from 80 to 200hp, the MultiBib features new rubber compounds and a redesigned internal structure making all sizes capable of handling speeds up to 65kph.

It also has a slightly wider, more aggressive tread pattern said to have better self-cleaning characteristics as well as more grip.

“The 65-series tyre segment, which Michelin created with the XM108, now represents 16% of the total replacement tyre market in Europe and a larger percentage than that of the tyres we supply to European tractor factories,” says Philippe Miret, head of Michelin’s worldwide farm tyre business.

“Since we still have more than 50% of the 65-series segment, despite the introduction of competitor tyres, the MultiBib is a very important tyre for us.”

Given the number of XM108 tyres in use, the new design is also a significant introduction for farmers.

Subtle redesign

Outwardly, there is little to distinguish new from old, other than the subtle redesign of the tread, which has bigger lugs (11% taller). This increases the effective width of the tyre by 10% and the lugs flare further apart towards the shoulder than on the XM108 to maintain good self-cleaning ability.

The MultiBib can typically run at 0.2 bar (3psi) lower inflation pressure than equivalent tyres, resulting in a larger contact patch size, which benefits traction and the tyre’s impact on the soil.

Michelin acknowledges that size-for-size, the new tyre will perform best on slightly wider rims to make the most of its flatter crown profile, but says that on existing rims it will still deliver improved performance.

It will be sold at the same price as the XM108 equivalent it replaces.