industrial and OTR tyre sizes commonly used in Kenya

If you operate construction equipment, mining machinery, loaders, graders, dump trucks, or forklifts, choosing the best OTR tyres in Kenya is essential for productivity, safety, and long-term cost control.

OTR (Off-The-Road) tyres are engineered to handle extreme loads, harsh terrain, and long working hours. This guide explains OTR tyre types, common sizes used in Kenya, key applications, and where to buy genuine OTR tyres online.

What Are OTR Tyres?

OTR tyres are heavy-duty tyres designed for machines that operate away from public roads, including:

  • Wheel loaders

  • Motor graders

  • Backhoe loaders

  • Dump trucks and articulated haulers

  • Forklifts

  • Mining and quarry equipment

They are built with:

  • Extra-strong carcasses

  • Deep, aggressive tread patterns

  • High load ratings

  • Cut-, impact-, and heat-resistant compounds

These features allow OTR tyres to perform reliably in Kenya’s construction, mining, and industrial environments.

Why Choosing the Right OTR Tyres Matters

Using the wrong OTR tyres can lead to:

  • Frequent punctures and sidewall damage

  • Poor traction on loose or rocky ground

  • Increased fuel consumption

  • Machine downtime and higher operating costs

The right OTR tyre improves:

  • Machine stability and braking

  • Traction on demanding terrain

  • Tyre lifespan

  • Overall job-site efficiency

Types of OTR Tyres in Kenya

Loader & Earthmover Tyres

Used on wheel loaders, excavators, and dump trucks.

Common applications

  • Construction sites

  • Quarrying and mining

  • Road works

Popular sizes

Grader Tyres

Designed for motor graders used in road construction and maintenance.

Key features

  • Smooth or ribbed tread patterns

  • High resistance to cuts and abrasion

  • Even wear over long working hours

Common sizes

Industrial & Forklift Tyres

Used in warehouses, ports, factories, and logistics yards.

Options include

  • Pneumatic tyres

  • Solid tyres for zero puncture risk

Bias vs Radial OTR Tyres

Bias OTR Tyres

  • Stronger, thicker sidewalls

  • More affordable upfront

  • Ideal for rough terrain and heavy impact

Radial OTR Tyres

  • Better traction and flexibility

  • Lower heat build-up

  • Longer lifespan

  • Improved fuel efficiency

👉 In Kenya, bias OTR tyres are widely used due to durability and cost, while radial OTR tyres are preferred for high-output operations and long working hours.

Common OTR Tyre Sizes in Kenya

Some of the most commonly used OTR tyre sizes in Kenya include:

  • 12.00-20

  • 14.00-20

  • 13.00-24

  • 17.5-25

  • 20.5-25

  • 23.5-25

Always confirm:

  • Tyre size

  • Ply rating

  • Load index

  • Rim compatibility

before purchasing.

Best OTR Tyre Brands Available in Kenya

At Automarket, we stock trusted OTR tyre brands proven in African conditions, including:

  • BKT – premium OTR and industrial tyres

  • MRF – heavy-duty construction and earthmover tyres

  • Alliance – industrial and agricultural tyre solutions

  • DoubleKing – cost-effective industrial and OTR tyres

These brands are suitable for construction, mining, industrial, and agricultural applications across Kenya.

How to Choose the Best OTR Tyres in Kenya

Before buying OTR tyres, consider:

Application

Loader, grader, forklift, dump truck, or industrial use.

Terrain

Rocky, sandy, muddy, or mixed surfaces.

Load & Working Hours

Heavier loads and long shifts require higher ply ratings and stronger compounds.

Budget vs Lifespan

Lower-priced tyres may cost more over time due to faster wear and downtime.

Where to Buy Genuine OTR Tyres in Kenya

The Kenyan market has many counterfeit and substandard tyres. Buying from unverified sellers risks equipment damage and productivity loss.

At Automarket.co.ke, you get:

  • Genuine OTR tyres from trusted manufacturers

  • Competitive pricing

  • Expert advice on tyre selection

  • Nationwide delivery via trusted courier partners

You can confidently buy OTR tyres online in Kenya from one reliable platform.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best OTR tyres in Kenya depends on machine type, terrain, load requirements, and operating conditions. Investing in the right tyres:

  • Reduces downtime

  • Improves productivity

  • Lowers long-term operating costs

At Automarket, we help contractors and businesses access reliable, genuine OTR tyres backed by expert support and dependable delivery.

Automarket – Kenya’s Trusted Online Store for OTR & Industrial Tyres
Powering construction, mining, and industry across Kenya.