AKRON, Ohio, Nov. 9 - It's difficult to find a tractor tire that works as long and hard as farmers themselves - starting early in the spring, working into the late fall and putting up with all the weather conditions that Mother Nature has to offer.

Kelly Brands is about to change that perception with the introduction of the Power Mark APR, a premium radial rear farm tire.

"In today's economy, farmers need to be in the fields earlier in the season, and they cannot afford to wait for ideal soil conditions throughout their entire field area. The Power Mark APR is an all-around tire designed to tackle diverse conditions," said Bill Cunningham, marketing manager for Goodyear and Kelly Brands farm tires. "The Power Mark APR offers excellent performance whether the soil conditions are muddy, sandy or hard. For farmers, that translates to less down time and increased productivity."

Engineers designing the Power Mark APR focused on three key areas: mud traction, ride comfort and durability.

In muddy conditions, the Power Mark APR's open center between the lugs provides an unobstructed path through which mud can flow. The channel reduces the likelihood of mud packing between the lugs and improves traction.

Yet unlike most other farm tires designed for use in the mud, the Power Mark APR is also built for comfort under other conditions. The tire comes with a patented riding cleat on each lug that reduces vibration, creating a smooth ride on harder surfaces.

"The conventional wisdom has been that you can't have it all in one tire. If you gain better traction in the mud, you lose ride comfort and durability on harder surfaces. We set out to change that," said Cunningham.

Other features of the Power Mark APR include dual size markings, an enhanced bead area for increased load carrying capacity, twin pry notches for easier in-field service and high-angle lug bracing for improved lug durability.

The Power Mark APR is available in eight metric sizes: 420/85R28, 380/85R30, 420/90R30, 480/80R38, 520/85R38, 480/80R42, 520/85R42 and 480/80R46. A ninth size - 380/90R46 - soon will be added to the line.

Authorized Kelly Brands farm tire dealers can be located by dialing 1-800-638-5112.

Additional information on Kelly Brands agricultural tires, along with its other commercial and passenger tires, can be found by visiting the Kelly Brands' home page at www.kelly-springfield.com.