SEMA Show, Day Four: Ironman vs. Terra Trac

Nov. 5, 2012

Hercules Tire & Rubber Co. had a big booth at the 2012 Global Tire Expo, with plenty of tires on display. Two were new: the Ironman RB-12 and the Hercules Terra Trac R/S.

The Ironman RB-12 (pictured) is an entry-level, all-season touring tire. It features a symmetric, five-rib tread design, with slotted shoulders, moderate siping and wide grooves. The variable tread design is engineered to reduce noise and deliver ride comfort.

Hercules anticipates the tire will be available in 21 sizes in the first quarter of 2013.

13-inch (three): from 155/70R13 75T to 175/70R13.

14-inch (six): from 175/70R14 84T to 185/60R14 82H.

15-inch (eight): from 205/70R15 96T to 195/55R15 85V.

16-inch (four): from 215/65R16 98T to 205/55R16 91T.

"This line is going to fill a void that our customers are looking for," says Suzanne Mitchell, manager of brand development.

The M&S-rated Terra Trac R/S is designed for rugged, on- and off-road applications. Its low-void shoulder and wide footprint "enhance vehicle stability, even during extreme maneuvers," according to the company.

The tread pattern matches that of the popular Terra Trac AW, with a freshened up sidewall.

The tire will be available in 10 sizes ranging from P235/75R15 XL to LT265/70R17 in 1Q 2013.

The Global Tire Expo is part of the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show, which is held annually at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nev.