An improved method for mounting an annular tread (1) onto a tire casing (2) is described. The improved method comprises the steps of expanding the tread (1) radially and encircling the expanded tread with a transfer mechanism (30) . The transfer mechanism (30) has a means (90) for holding the lateral edges (5) of the tread (1) in the expanded condition independent of the center (6) of the tread (1) . The means (90) for holding the lateral edges (5) of the tread (1) is accomplished without contacting the radially inner surface (7) of the tread (1) . The transfer mechanism (30) has a means (92) for circumferentially clamping the central portion of the tread (1) to the casing (2) . The transfer mechanism (30) with expanded tread (1) is centered over the casing (2) . The means (92) for clamping the central portion (6) of the tread (1) is actuated while holding the lateral edges (5) of the tread (1 ) in the transfer mechanism (30) . Then the lateral edges (5) of the tread (1) are released from the transfer mechanism (30) thereby transferring the tread (1) to the casing (2) while preventing entrapment of air between the casing (2) and the tread (1) .