Product Description
Smooth Flat Standard Tire
Specifications: 13.000 inch diameter x 5.500 inch width (13.000" x 5.500" | 13 x 5.50 wheel | 13 x 5-1/2 | 330.20mm x 139.70mm)
Specifications
Wheel Specifications
| Outside Diameter (in) | 13.000 |
| Width (in) | 5.500 |
| Outside Diameter (mm) | 330.20 |
| Width (mm) | 139.70 |
| Drive Tire Profile | Smooth Flat |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Smooth Flat (SF) mean and when should I use this tire?
A: The SF profile is a smooth, flat tread with no grooves or siping. Smooth flat tires are ideal for clean, dry warehouse floors where traction is not a concern. They offer the lowest rolling resistance, longest wear life, and best energy efficiency. Do not use SF tires on damp, contaminated, or textured floors; they will slip and provide poor traction for steering control.
Q: How much longer do smooth flat tires last compared to siped or textured tires?
A: Smooth flat tires typically last 20 to 40 percent longer than siped or textured tires under identical load and usage. The continuous contact surface distributes wear evenly and resists chunking. Expected life is 800 to 1200 operating hours on standard-duty trucks with moderate loads. Siped tires last 500 to 800 hours because sipes collect debris and initiate tread separation.
Q: Why does the smooth flat tire reduce battery drain?
A: Smooth flat profiles have lower rolling resistance because the tire maintains continuous contact with the floor, requiring less motor effort to overcome friction. Siped or textured tires have grooves and sipes that increase deformation, generating more heat and requiring more energy to roll. On a 8-hour shift, smooth flat tires can extend battery run time by 15 to 25 percent compared to siped versions.
Q: Can I use smooth flat tires on a dock with water or oil residue?
A: No. Do not use smooth flat tires on wet, oily, or contaminated floors. The continuous smooth surface provides no grip on slippery surfaces and will cause the truck to lose steering control and traction. Use siped tires on damp docks or contaminated floors. If the floor is wet, clean it dry before operating smooth flat tires or switch to a siped tire variant.
Q: What causes premature wear or failure on smooth flat tires?
A: Premature failure occurs from: (1) overloading beyond truck capacity, (2) sharp objects or broken glass embedding in the tire, (3) running flat or under-inflated (for air-filled models), (4) high-speed operation or sharp turns that cause sidewall stress, (5) prolonged contact with solvents or harsh chemicals. Inspect tires daily for cuts, cracks, or embedded debris and replace immediately if damage is visible.