There's a quiet revolution taking place in steer tyre technology. Many operators have found that a move towards 305/70R22.5 Michelin tyres has brought significant benefits by reducing their operating costs in cents/km while at the same time substantially increasing tyre life and performance.

Michelin introduced the technology of the 305/70R22.5 tyre to Australia some two years ago and has since monitored many fleet and owner operator vehicles to catalogue the advantages this new size offers over other low profile tyres in sizes such as 275/80R22.5 or 275/70R22.5.

"The 305/70R22.5, since its initial release, has continually exceeded all expectations and accordingly has become the benchmark for tyre performance in Australia. The main benefits it provides are a much longer life combined with even wear. Further benefits such as better roadholding and more stable steering control come as part of the overall package," a Michelin spokesperson said.

The broader contact patch with optimised load distribution results in better handling and stability plus it promotes even tyre wear across the total tread area. Built specifically for 8.25-inch wide rims, the 305/70R22.5 offers a steer axle weight carrying capacity of 7,100kgs.

Owner/driver Brian Pokorny is one operator who monitors his overall cost of vehicle ownership and with a comprehensive range of recorded data can determine whether the move to the new technology is actually saving or costing him financially.

Like many truck owners, Brian originally ran 275/80R22.5 steer tyres on his immaculate 1994 Kenworth T950 hauling bulk cement and fly ash into the Sydney metropolitan area as well as country NSW.

Powered by a 475 hp Caterpillar, the Kenworth recorded an average steer tyre life of 67,372 kms from the first three sets of tyres. After consultation with his local Michelin tyre specialist, Brian switched to 305/70R22.5 Michelin XZE2 steer tyres and achieved an 81 per cent increase in tyre life with a new average of 122,309kms.

"The savings were immediate," said Brian. "The other very noticeable change was how better it steered and handled, especially in the rain. With a front axle load of six tonnes it was more responsive and didn't become influenced by broken road edges.

"The type of work we do is quite harsh on tyres and the increase in tyre life and corresponding reduction in cost per kilometre is a strong justification for the upgrade," Brian added.

Michelin 305/70R22.5 XZE2 steer tyres are fully compatible with most heavy vehicles in Australia. The 305/70R22.5 XDE2 dedicated drive tyre, can be used as a potential replacement for 275/80R22.5 and possibly 275/70R22.5 tyres whilst remaining within accepted gearing tolerances. Under guard clearances are not usually affected.

This new size is also an economical alternative to fitting a wide single tyre on the steer axle. After completing its life as a steer tyre, Michelin recommends retreading with a 250mm re-cap for subsequent use in a drive axle or trailer position. The increased depth of cushion rubber at the base of the tread minimises any deformation and enhances regroovability.

Michelin tyres and specialist advice are available throughout Australia by contacting any Michelin approved truck tyre dealer.