A Jedburgh-based farmer has fitted Michelin’s BibSteel Hard Surface tyres to his Mustang skidsteer as the robust tyres excel when working in some of the toughest farm conditions.
Scott Barbour, a partner in RG Barbour & Sons, uses the skidsteer for a range of demanding tasks, including mucking out cattle sheds, moving hundreds of large square bales for the bedding machine throughout the winter, plus general farm jobs throughout the year.
This sees the tyres worked on hard concrete ground, which in the past caused tyres to wear quickly.
“When we’ve fitted budget tyres in the past they have barely lasted two years before needing to be replaced,” Mr Barbour said. “The BibSteel Hard Surface tyres, on the other hand, are hardly showing any signs of wear – and that’s after more than a year’s heavy use.
“We knew Michelin tyres were good, but we’ve been really impressed with just how well they are performing.”
A steel-belted radial design and heavy-duty rubber compound gives the BibSteel Hard Surface tyre an excellent tread life and superior resistance to cuts and abrasions compared with less-durable crossply tyres used on around 90 per cent of the machines in this market. The reinforced sidewall also provides excellent operator comfort, improved stability and smooth control.
“When your tyres wear as well as these ones are, you don’t mind paying a little extra upfront,” Mr Barbour added. “Michelin tyres may be more expensive, but you definitely get what you pay for and we couldn’t be happier with the total performance we’re getting from them.”
Michelin launched the BibSteel Hard Surface tyres to replace the former Stabil’X XZSL radial fitment in 2012. The range is designed for compact vehicles looking for maximum traction while working on asphalt and other hard, abrasive surfaces. The company also offers the BibSteel All Terrain, for off-road use.
For more information visit: www.michelin-agricultural-tyres.co.uk.
