Polyurethane Press-Ons

Polyurethane press-on forklift tires, commonly called poly tires, are solid polyurethane compounds bonded to a precision steel press-on ring. These tires mount onto flat-base industrial wheels using a hydraulic press, creating a secure interference fit and long service life in the right indoor applications.

Poly tires are commonly used on electric forklifts and warehouse equipment where low rolling resistance, non-marking performance, and long wear life are top priorities.

Shop by Inside Diameter of Press-On Tire

Polyurethane press-on tires are grouped by inside diameter (ID).

Each category includes all matching fractional ID sizes. Click a category below to start shopping.

How Polyurethane Tires Are Measured

Poly press-on tires are measured as OD × width × ID (overall diameter × width × inside diameter). For example, a 21x7x15 tire is approximately 21 inches tall, 7 inches wide, and presses onto a 15-inch wheel.

After accounting for the steel ring base, the remaining material represents the usable polyurethane compound.

Why Choose Polyurethane Tires?

Polyurethane tires use a higher-durometer compound than rubber cushion tires. This added hardness reduces rolling resistance and heat buildup, making polyurethane a strong choice for electric forklifts operating on smooth, clean warehouse floors.

• Low rolling resistance for improved electric efficiency
• Non-marking by design for clean facilities
• Long wear life in controlled indoor environments
• High load stability with minimal flex under load

Poly tires are widely used in warehouses, food facilities, pharmaceutical operations, and other environments where floor cleanliness and efficiency are important.

Performance Characteristics

• Low Rolling Resistance — helps reduce energy use on electric forklifts
• High Load Stability — maintains shape under load with minimal flex
• Non-Marking Compound — suitable for clean and regulated facilities
• Freezer Capable — commonly used in cold storage applications

Because polyurethane is firmer than rubber, it provides a harder ride and may be more susceptible to edge damage if used around debris, broken concrete, or sharp impacts. In clean, controlled environments, however, it delivers excellent wear life and consistent performance.

Polyurethane vs Rubber Cushion

• Choose polyurethane if you want lower rolling resistance, non-marking performance, and longer wear in clean indoor conditions
• Choose rubber cushion if you want more shock absorption and a more forgiving ride in general warehouse use

Compare Rubber Cushion Press-On Tires if your application needs more flex and impact absorption.

Selecting the Right Poly Compound

Polyurethane tires are available in different compound formulations and hardness levels engineered for specific load capacities and operating conditions. Choosing the correct compound helps maximize wear life, stability, and overall equipment performance.

If your application involves unusual loads, extended run time, or specialized operating conditions, verify the correct compound before ordering.

Before Ordering

Before ordering, always confirm:

• Tire size (OD × width × ID)
• Wheel size / inside diameter
• That your application is suited to polyurethane
• Floor conditions (smooth and clean vs debris-heavy)
• Load and operating intensity

Polyurethane press-on tires require a hydraulic press for installation. If you are comparing press-on compounds, visit our Press-On Forklift Tires guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a polyurethane press-on forklift tire?

A polyurethane press-on tire is a solid polyurethane compound bonded to a precision steel ring that presses onto a forklift wheel. These tires are non-marking by design and provide low rolling resistance, making them the standard choice for electric forklifts operating in clean indoor environments like warehouses, food facilities, and pharmaceutical operations.

What is the difference between polyurethane and rubber cushion forklift tires?

Polyurethane tires are harder, provide lower rolling resistance, and last longer in clean indoor conditions. Rubber cushion tires are softer, absorb more shock, and handle rougher surfaces and debris better. Choose polyurethane for smooth concrete floors and electric efficiency. Choose rubber cushion if your operation involves outdoor areas, rough surfaces, or frequent impacts.

How are polyurethane press-on tires measured?

Polyurethane press-on tires are measured as OD x width x ID (overall diameter x width x inside diameter). For example, a 21x7x15 tire is approximately 21 inches in overall diameter, 7 inches wide, and fits a 15-inch wheel. The inside diameter (ID) is the key measurement for matching the tire to your wheel.

Are polyurethane forklift tires non-marking?

Yes. Polyurethane press-on tires are non-marking by design. They will not leave black scuff marks on warehouse floors, making them the preferred choice for food processing, pharmaceutical, and other clean-floor environments where floor marking is not acceptable.

What equipment uses polyurethane press-on tires?

Polyurethane press-on tires are commonly used on electric sit-down and stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, and other warehouse equipment that operates primarily on smooth indoor surfaces. They are standard on many electric forklifts from Toyota, Crown, Yale, Hyster, and Raymond.

Can I switch from rubber cushion to polyurethane tires?

In many cases, yes, as long as the tire dimensions (OD x width x ID) match your current setup. However, polyurethane rides firmer and performs best on smooth, clean floors. If your operation involves rough surfaces, debris, or outdoor use, rubber cushion may still be the better choice. Verify your tire size and operating conditions before switching.

Need more help choosing? See our Forklift Tire Buying Guide.

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