Michelin’s Aqua Tread Tires, specifically their radial tires in the larger 11:00 x 22 size, were renowned for their durability and exceptional performance, especially under heavy loads and challenging winter conditions. This account from a trucker who worked during the 1960s and 70s offers a firsthand testament to their legendary reputation.
Unparalleled Performance Under Extreme Loads
Working for a Canadian trucking company notorious for overloading its rigs, this trucker frequently hauled loads far exceeding legal limits. Loads weighing over 100,000 pounds were not uncommon, even reaching a staggering 143,000 pounds on one occasion—a weight that exceeded the Peace Bridge’s single-span design limit. Despite these extreme loads, Michelin’s radial tires demonstrated remarkable resilience with a significantly lower failure rate compared to other trucking companies. Their superior traction in winter conditions was also a notable advantage.
A Standoff with the NY State Police
One memorable incident highlights the robustness of these tires. Driving a single-axle city tractor with an 80,000-pound load on the tandem trailer, the trucker was stopped by a New York State Police weigh station. Attempts to accurately weigh the overloaded truck were thwarted as the tractor’s inside tires remained on the ground, even after raising the scale with blocks. Further attempts to inflate the tires at a nearby gas station proved futile, as the compressor couldn’t handle the required pressure. This resilience under scrutiny further solidified the trucker’s confidence in Michelin’s tires.
The Goodyear Challenge and the Importance of Steering Axle Tires
In the late 1970s, Goodyear attempted to compete with Michelin, claiming to offer comparable performance at a lower price. A trial run with Goodyear tires on some of the company’s rigs quickly ended due to frequent failures, reaffirming the superiority of Michelin’s radials. It’s important to note that while Michelin radials were used on all other axles, bias-ply tires were still necessary for steering axles due to the lack of power steering in those days. Turning the wheel with radials on a non-power steering system would have been nearly impossible.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Michelin Aqua Tread Tires
This firsthand account underscores the exceptional durability, performance, and reliability of Michelin’s aqua tread radial tires, particularly in demanding trucking applications. Their ability to withstand extreme loads and challenging conditions cemented their reputation as a top choice for truckers seeking superior performance and peace of mind. Even decades later, the legacy of these tires persists as a testament to Michelin’s commitment to innovation and quality. While the specific “aqua tread” terminology might be a modern association with Michelin’s tire technology, the core qualities of durability and performance described by the trucker directly reflect the attributes that continue to define Michelin tires today.
