How to Choose the Right Truck Tyres

The truck tyre size must be approved by the vehicle manufacturer and must at least meet the axle's maximum load capacity. An axle's maximum load carrying capacity which is set by the vehicle manufacturer in line with current regulations.

But beware: simply fitting this axle with truck tyres that can carry a larger load does not mean you can exceed the manufacturer's approved capacity.
Each tyre size corresponds to one or more suitable wheels, including in terms of rim width: see the ETRTO's "Standards Manual" and/or the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

"D" tread patterns are designed to cope with the specific stresses and strains imposed on drive axles:

transmissions of engine and brake torque,
twinning, the highest axle load of the whole road-going setup, etc.

Truck tyres with a "Z" tread pattern can be fitted on drive axles, but given the stresses on this axle, you are likely to strike the best performance balance with "D" patterns. For some uses, "Z" patterns also offer excellent performance when used on a drive axle: in an urban setting, for example.

These patterns are designed to cope with the specific stresses on trailer axles:

static and dynamic loads,
scrubbing,
high mileages on centre axles, etc.

Truck tyres with "T" tread patterns show load indices and speed ratings suited to towed vehicles (trailers or semi-trailers). When fitting truck tyres with "Z" tread patterns, check that the load indices and speed ratings are suited to the needs of the axle.
MICHELIN truck tyres with "T" tread patterns in Europe display the "FRT" (Free Rolling Tyre) marking, standardised by the ETRTO. "T" tread patterns must therefore never be used on steering or drive axles.

The term FRT (Free Rolling Tyre) is defined in ECE Regulation 54, paragraph 3.1.15.
The inscription "FRT" concerns truck tyres designed specifically for trailer axles (and axles of motor vehicles other than front steering and drive axles).

This regulation applies to all new truck tyres used in Europe: this means that tyres marked FRT are approved only to be fitted on trailer axles and must not be fitted on other types of axle.
Michelin also applies the FRT marking to MICHELIN Remix tyres. Michelin shall not be held liable for the consequences of any damage or injury caused by the use of truck tyres contrary to their recommendations. A 385/65 R 22.5 tyre with the FRT marking can be fitted on the last non-drive rear axle of a motor vehicle.


F = Front	D = Drive	T = Trailer
Z = All positions

How to Choose the Right Truck Tyres

STEP 1: Determine the right truck tyre size

STEP 2: Define the correct truck tyre use

STEP 3: Identify the right benefit

STEP 4: Choose the right tread pattern

Steering axle: use only “F” or “Z” tread patterns.

Drive axle: use only “D” or “Z” tread patterns.

Trailer axle: use only “T” or “Z” tread patterns.

The FRT marking

Other articles that may interest you:

Tyres to reduce CO2 emissions from heavy-duty vehicles

Truck tyre replacement: proper and efficient practices

Which tyre to choose for your electric truck