Michelin XZL+

Self cleaning block pattern. An open, staggered lug geometry with wide lateral notches and deep evacuation channels rapidly ejects mud, clay, snow and stones through centrifugal and shear forces, preserving a high effective void ratio as the tyre rotates. This maintains high macro- and micro-roughness contact, reducing slip ratio and thermal build-up under torque, which directly improves tractive coefficient on soft substrates common in New Zealand forestry, farm and construction sites. Consistent self-cleaning also stabilises longitudinal and lateral force generation, delivering predictable steering and braking when transitioning between gravel, wet grass and sealed roads, while limiting abrasive paste formation that accelerates wear.

CTIS ready bead design. Engineered with a robust bead bundle, reinforced chafer and a stiff apex, the Michelin XZL++ maintains bead seating and air retention when used with Central Tyre Inflation Systems, enabling precise pressure adjustments from highway to off-road without compromising safety. The casing is optimised to accommodate large deflection cycles at very low pressures, expanding the footprint to lower ground pressure for improved flotation on sand, peat and riverbeds, while the bead’s high compression resistance mitigates rim slip under high torque. This compatibility increases mobility envelope and payload productivity by allowing operators to tune the tyre for traction or efficiency in real time.

Cut resistant tread compound. A high-natural-rubber, carbon-black enriched blend with cut- and chip-resistant elastomers and robust anti-tear reinforcing resins resists chunking and crack initiation at lug bases when exposed to sharp aggregate, basalt and forestry slash. Optimised hysteresis balances off-road grip with heat control, while protective waxes and anti-ozonants guard against ozone and UV, slowing sidewall weathering in harsh coastal and alpine conditions. The result is reduced tread block fracture and slower crack propagation at the belt edges, improving casing integrity and extending usable tread life across mixed-duty cycles.

Deep tread and shoulders. Substantial tread depth and square shoulders provide a large wear volume and strong lateral biting edges, distributing contact stresses more evenly to reduce heel-and-toe wear on abrasive chipseal and gravel. The deep lug base with reinforced tie bars minimises flex-fatigue and tearing under high torque, while open shoulder scallops enhance lateral traction and help eject debris that could otherwise drill into the crown. This geometry yields longer service intervals, more consistent braking throughout the tyre’s life, and better protection of the upper sidewall against scuffing in ruts and along kerbs.

Retreadable Michelin casing. The Michelin XZL++ radial architecture uses high-tensile steel belts, durable skim stocks and a controlled belt-edge profile to limit cord shear and heat concentration, preserving carcass integrity for multiple lives. Uniform stress distribution and excellent bead durability support repeated retreading, maintaining original contour for even wear and predictable handling post-remanufacture. For fleets, this delivers a lower cost per kilometre and improved sustainability without sacrificing off-road mobility, as the casing retains its ability to operate at variable pressures and high deflection when paired with CTIS.