17.5 vs 22.5 Tyres in Semi Trailers: Load Capacity, Ride Comfort & Application Areas

A detailed comparison between 17.5-inch and 22.5-inch tyres used in semi trailers — exploring axle loads, terrain adaptability, ride quality, and ideal application zones for each size.

Tyres & Axles Technical Comparison
📅 Published on 2025-11-11 | ✍️ Semi Trailer News Engineering Desk

Image: Comparison between 17.5-inch and 22.5-inch tyres used on semi trailer axles

🛞 Overview

Trailer tyre size selection directly affects **load capacity, ride height, fuel efficiency, and braking behavior**. In semi trailers, the two dominant sizes — 17.5" and 22.5" — serve distinct operational purposes depending on route conditions and cargo type.

⚖️ Dimensional & Structural Differences

🚛 Where 17.5” Tyres Are Commonly Used

• Lowbed trailers — where lower loading height and stability are priorities.
• City or regional transport with moderate axle loads.
• Multi-axle configurations (4–5 axles) spreading weight across smaller wheels.
• Lower center of gravity required for tall machinery or containers.

17.5-inch setups reduce total trailer height, improving stability and fuel efficiency at lower speeds. They are ideal for **construction, mining, and machinery transport** where height limits or ramps are critical.

🏗️ Where 22.5” Tyres Dominate

• Tanker and bulk trailers with higher axle loads.
• Long-haul operations covering thousands of kilometers on highways.
• Rough or uneven roads requiring more sidewall cushioning.
• Heavy-duty applications such as lowloaders or oilfield trailers.

22.5-inch tyres provide **better ground clearance**, higher load index, and longer tread life. They’re preferred for **international transport fleets** prioritizing durability and comfort over compact height.

🔧 Engineering Considerations

• Switching from 17.5" to 22.5" increases deck height by ~100 mm; trailer necks must be redesigned accordingly.
• Suspension geometry (ride height, shock length) must match tyre radius.
• ABS/EBS calibration may need adjustment due to altered rolling circumference.

🌍 Fuel Economy & Road Impact

Smaller 17.5” tyres offer **less rolling resistance at low speeds**, but 22.5” tyres outperform them on **highway stability and lifespan**. For fleets with mixed operations, **hybrid setups** — e.g., front 22.5”, rear 17.5” lift axles — can balance economy and performance.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Choosing between 17.5” and 22.5” tyres isn’t about which is “better”, but which **fits the operation**. For regional, heavy-equipment, or low-profile use, 17.5” remains unbeatable. For high-speed, heavy-duty, and long-distance logistics, 22.5” is the standard of endurance and efficiency.

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