Carlisle Multi Trac CS R-3 Turf Tire
Get turf-friendly traction that doesn't tear up the job site. The Carlisle Multi Trac CS R-3 is built for soft soils, grass, and landscaped areas where flotation and gentle ground contact matter. A wide contact patch and open tread channels keep the tire planted while clearing loose material, so you keep moving in sand, loam, and damp turf. Its sturdy commercial casing supports steady handling and reliable load capacity on mowers, compact tractors, and utility equipment used in landscaping, municipal, and groundskeeping work.
Key features and specifications
The Multi Trac CS R-3 pairs a wide, rounded footprint with open, paddle-style tread elements to deliver forward bite in soft ground while protecting turf. Broad shoulders spread weight to reduce imprinting on grass. Self-cleaning voids shed dirt and sand to maintain traction as conditions change. A durable commercial casing provides stability under equipment loads and consistent steering at typical turf-service speeds, with size-specific variations in load index, speed rating, and rim width that must match your machine.
Applications and fitment
This R-3 pattern suits zero-turn and lawn tractors, compact tractors, utility vehicles, and turf equipment that need flotation and careful ground manners. To pick the right size, read the dimensions, load index, and speed rating on your current tire and confirm them in your equipment manual. Match rim diameter and width, and keep overall diameter close to OE to preserve deck geometry and gearing. If replacing a single tire, match the size and pattern on the opposite side for even traction and predictable handling.
Performance on different terrain
On turf and soft soil, the Multi Trac CS R-3 emphasizes flotation and gentle ground contact, helping reduce scuffing and rutting compared with aggressive lugs. In sand or loosened topsoil, the open tread provides forward bite and resists clogging. On damp grass, the wide footprint aids stability, but use smooth throttle and steering to protect the surface. On hardpack and paved paths, expect a stable, predictable ride at typical equipment speeds, but this R-3 pattern is not intended for high-speed road use or deep mud.
Pricing and buying guide
Price depends on size, load rating, and construction. Larger diameters and higher load indices generally cost more, and specialty sizes can carry premiums. Consider total cost of ownership, including casing durability, tread depth for usable life, and the turf protection that can reduce rework on finished grounds. For best value, buy matched sets for driven axles, follow OEM specs, and check current availability, lead times, and promotions before ordering. If you are torn between two sizes or ratings, confirm compatibility with your equipment manual or a tire professional before you buy.
Maintenance tips for longevity
Maintain inflation at the pressure recommended in your equipment manual, which preserves the footprint for turf protection and helps prevent premature wear. Inspect tread and sidewalls regularly for cuts, punctures, or embedded debris, especially after work on gravel or construction sites. Rotate or swap positions as your equipment manual advises to keep wear even. Avoid long-term storage under heavy loads, store clean, dry, and out of sunlight, then recheck torque and pressure after mounting, and never exceed the maximum load or psi on the sidewall.
R-3 vs. R-1 vs. R-4: choosing the right pattern
R-3 turf and sand patterns like the Multi Trac CS R-3 focus on flotation and minimal ground disturbance, ideal for lawns, golf, parks, and soft-top applications. R-1 ag tires use deep, widely spaced lugs for maximum traction in fields and mud, but they can mark turf and hard surfaces. R-4 industrial designs balance traction and durability for mixed surfaces and loader work, offering tougher sidewalls with more ground impact than R-3. If protecting finished ground is the priority, choose R-3, if you need pull and soil penetration, pick R-1, for mixed duty with frequent hard surfaces, R-4 often fits best.
How to read your current tire size
Look for size markings on your current tire sidewall, such as 24x12.00-12 or 26x12.00-12, common in turf applications. Note the overall diameter, section width, and rim diameter, plus load index and any ply or load range designation. Match the rim width range listed for the new tire to ensure proper bead seating and footprint shape. Keep overall diameter and rolling circumference consistent on driven axles, and if you increase load capacity, confirm your wheels and equipment are rated for it.
Mounting and break-in
Have tires mounted by a qualified technician using the correct rim size and approved tire lubricant. After installation, set pressure to the equipment spec and recheck after the first day of work. A brief break-in helps tread edges settle and stabilizes handling. For paired or 4WD setups, keep sizes and pressures matched side to side and front to rear as specified, and periodically remove stones from the tread to preserve self-cleaning in soft ground.
