A cushion tire forklift is an internal combustion (IC) or electric lift truck equipped with solid, press-on rubber tires. Unlike pneumatic tires that contain air, cushion tires are solid rubber bonded to a metal base band. They are designed specifically for smooth, indoor surfaces.
Key Features & Advantages
Superior Maneuverability: Cushion tires have a smaller diameter and sit lower to the ground, providing a tighter turning radius. This makes cushion tire forklifts ideal for navigating narrow aisles and tight warehouse spaces.
Excellent Visibility: The lower profile of cushion tires enhances operator visibility.
Durability: Made of solid rubber, these tires are highly durable on smooth surfaces and are designed to reduce chipping on wheels.
Stability: The solid construction offers a stable ride on flat, paved surfaces.
Applications
Cushion tire forklifts are the workhorses of indoor environments. Their primary applications include:
Warehouses and distribution centers
Manufacturing and assembly plants
Retail spaces
Loading and unloading docks
Industries like paper, steel, machinery, and fabricated metals
While primarily for indoor use, they can handle light outdoor work on smooth, paved surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
Popular Models & Specifications
Brand Series / Model Capacity Power Key Features
Yale GC30-40N 3,000 – 4,000 lbs LPG Ergonomic design, excellent visibility
Yale GC135-155VX 13,500 – 15,500 lbs LPG / Diesel Heavy-duty, Continuous Stability System
Crown C-5 Series 4,000 – 6,500 lbs LPG Ergonomic, rugged powertrain
Mitsubishi FGC15N-FGC40CN 3,000 – 8,000 lbs LPG Compact chassis, low vibration
UniCarriers CF30N-CF80N 3,000 – 8,000 lbs IC Engine High torque, easy maintenance
Hyundai 35, 45, 55LC-9 8,000 – 12,000 lbs Diesel (Kubota) Heavy payloads, advanced diagnostics
Noblelift FL4C 25-32 5,000 – 6,500 lbs LPG Balance of power and performance
How Much Does a Cushion Tire Forklift Cost?
The price of a cushion tire forklift varies significantly based on capacity, brand, age, and condition.
New Forklifts: Prices are typically obtained via quote from dealers.
Used Forklifts:
A used Cat 2C5000 (3,150 lb capacity) sold for $11,950.
A used Datsun cushion tire forklift sold at auction for prices ranging from $3,410 to $5,280.
A 2020 Hyster S120FT-PRS (9,000 lb capacity) had a starting bid of $22,000.
Cushion Tire Costs: Replacement cushion tires themselves can range from $135 to over $1,200 each, depending on size and brand. For example, a 16x6x10-1/2 smooth cushion tire is priced at $289.27.
How Much Does a Cushion Tire Forklift Weigh?
The weight of a cushion tire forklift is directly related to its lift capacity.
3,000 – 6,000 lb Capacity: Service weight is approximately 6,273 lbs.
5,000 lb Capacity:
A Yale 5K model weighs approximately 9,000 lbs.
A Daewoo GC25S-2 weighs approximately 8,400 lbs.
6,000 lb Capacity: A Towmotor model has an estimated weight of 9,400 lbs.
6,000 – 7,000 kg (13,200 – 15,400 lb) Capacity: Total weight can range from 8,850 kg (19,510 lbs) to 9,670 kg (21,319 lbs).
In short, cushion tire forklifts are essential for indoor material handling, offering superior maneuverability and stability on smooth surfaces. They are available in a wide range of capacities from major brands like Yale, Crown, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai, with prices for used models starting in the low thousands and weights typically ranging from 6,000 to over 21,000 lbs depending on the model and capacity.