Forklift applications continue to get more demanding, (forcing) the forklift to work longer hours while maximizing their load carrying capacity at maximum reach. This is especially true for solid forklift tires, which may account for 60% to 70% of forklift applications in the market. “The most popular categories of tires used for forklifts are pneumatic forklift tires, either radial or bias construction, depending on the application ... and solid forklift tires, primarily designed for tough applications to minimize downtime and enhance productivity. Smart tires incorporate sensors, which help in monitoring parameters related to the tire’s performance, wear and tear, and pressure over time and in real-time. “Another trend in forklift tires for outdoor vertical mast machines and especially telehandlers is the growing preference for low-profile, non-directional tires,” notes Dembe.