While Continental may have a strong case for investing in high-tech “VF” tractor tyres for optimum traction, ground pressure and wear rates, it is still paying attention to farmers content on sticking to tried-and-tested mid-range products for their machines.

With the TractorMaster 600/70 R34 front and 620/70 R42 rear pairing, these new sizes cater for higher output, upper mid-range machines of about 200-250hp, capable of accommodating the tall rears.

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The new rear size, in particular, suits tractors used for in-furrow ploughing.

Its large overall diameter creates a longer contact patch to make up for the loss of width compared with the existing 42in 650/65, 710/70 and 710/75 sizes in the TractorMaster range.

Although the TractorMaster design does not have the sidewall suppleness of “IF” and “VF” tyres, it does share some features with those more advanced designs.

This includes a continuous – rather than spliced – steel filament bead reinforcement, and the patented N.flex nylon layer, which reinforces the carcass.

Continental highlights that in tests carried out by German farmers’ organisation DLG, the TractorMaster was the most fuel-efficient of its type and also the most efficient in terms of getting engine power down to the ground.