Load and speed index for agricultural tyres

The load index (LI) and speed index (SI) of agricultural tyres determine how much weight a tyre may carry and the maximum speed at which it can be used safely. These values are always shown on the sidewall of the agricultural tyre and together form the Load/Speed Index. For safe and efficient use, it is important that the selected tyre matches the actual load, the working conditions and the correct tyre pressure. An incorrect combination can lead to overloading, accelerated wear or damage to both tyre and machine.
Load and speed index for agricultural tyres
Zichtbaarheid load- en speedindex op landbouwbanden

Where can you find the load and speed index?

On the sidewall of every agricultural tyre, you will find a combination of numbers and a letter, for example 133A8.

133 = maximum load capacity according to the load index
A8 = maximum speed (40 km/h) according to the speed index

For radial agricultural tyres, load capacity is shown as the Load Index (LI), while for bias-ply tyres it is shown as the Ply Rating (PR). Never load a tyre beyond the value indicated by the index, and always adjust the tyre pressure to the load and operating conditions.

VF tyres: higher load capacity at lower pressure

VF tyres (Very Increased Flexion) are specially developed to carry maximum loads at lower tyre pressures. A VF tyre can:

  • carry up to 40% more weight at the same pressure, or
  • carry the same weight at 40% lower pressure

This results in less soil compaction, more traction and better yields on soft or variable ground conditions.

Larger machines require higher indexes

Agricultural machines are becoming increasingly larger and more powerful. As a result, demand is growing for agricultural tyres with:

  • larger air chambers
  • wider sizes
  • higher load index and speed index values

Some machine manufacturers design the machine first and only then look for suitable tyres. In that case, it is essential that the load and speed index are correctly matched to the total machine weight and maximum road speed. Heuver advises on the best combination of height, width and load capacity, so that the machine can operate safely and stably.

Example: how do I read the Load/Speed Index?

A Load/Speed Index of 133A8 means:

  • 2060 kg load capacity per tyre
  • 40 km/h maximum speed

Each load index corresponds to a fixed load capacity value in the official table. The speed index indicates the maximum speed at which this load capacity applies.

This differs for every agricultural tyre. The complete load capacity and speed values can be found in the tables below.

2503 LBB 444 Load Speed Index EN

Load/speed index table

2503 LBB 445 Load Speed Index EN

2503 LBB 446 Load Speed Index EN

Frequently asked questions about load and speed index for agricultural tyres

What does 133A8 mean on an agricultural tyre?

133 is the load index and stands for a maximum load capacity of 2060 kg per tyre according to the official load capacity table. A8 is the speed index and indicates a maximum speed of 40 km/h.

Can I use an agricultural tyre with a higher load index than specified?

Yes, a higher load index is technically permitted and means a higher load capacity. The tyre must still match the rim, axle load and vehicle configuration.

What happens if the load index is too low?

A load index that is too low can lead to overloading, extra heat build-up and accelerated carcass wear. This increases the risk of tyre damage and downtime.

Is the speed index important for fieldwork?

Yes. Even at low speeds in the field, the tyre is still under load. In addition, many agricultural machines regularly drive on public roads, where the maximum speed is crucial for safe use.

Want to know more?

For more information, please contact our experts on +31 (0)523 850 850. Become a customer and register directly via this page.