Abstract: A removable tread installed as an annular belt about the circumference of a tire carcass. The inner surface of the removable tread belt and the outer surface of the tire carcass have an interengaging pattern to interlock the two. The removable tread belt has a plurality of axially oriented metal bars and an inextensible circumferential belt radially outwardly from the bars. The cross-section of the bars is substantially T-shaped, and the bars are provided with enlarged portions at each end. The ends of the bars extend outwardly to a point at least equal to the widest portion of the tire carcass sidewall. The bars and the inextensible belt are encapsulated in a matrix of rubber, which has a tread pattern on its outer circumferential surface.