Should I Use Radial or Bias Trailer Tires On My Jet Ski Trailer?
Question:
hi im looking to buy a couple of trailer tires for an old jet ski type trailer that i am converting to haul kayaks. im confused by the language on your website about bias tires being for offroad/ag use, and radials being for highway use. the old trailer i have does have bias tires currently, and all of the old boat trailers ive owned over the years have had those type of tires as well. but looking at your website, it feels like im being pushed away from bias tires towards radials. which should i buy? i was considering the kenda 6 ply tires with galvanized wheels but should i instead be buying radials?
asked by: Mike K
Expert Reply:
Really you'd be fine going with either tire but the better of the two are definitely Radials. Radial tires have a longer life than bias tires, usually provide a smoother and quieter ride, provide better fuel economy because they have less rolling resistance, and are overall much stronger than bias tires because of their construction.
Also, you probably had bias tires on your older trailers because up until recent those were considered the better tire for carrying heavier loads, but that has changed. Nowadays radial trailer tires are designated with an ST label in the name for Special Trailer and are built to handle heavier loads.
I'd love to help you find the correct tires for your trailer so If you can let me know what size tire you'd be needing I'll take a look and see what I can find.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range C
- 4.80-12
- 12 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Boat Trailer Wheels
- Kenda
more information >
Continue Researching
- Shop: Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range B and C Trailer Tires
- Video: Kenda Tires and Wheels - Tire with Wheel - AM30670 Review
- Shop: Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80-12 - Load Range C
- Q&A: Correct Replacement Tire and Wheel for 2021 Triton PWC Trailer
- Shop: Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Q&A: Spare Tire and Wheel for Trailer with Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Tires
- Shop: Mounting Brackets for Trailer Fender - 8" to 12" Wheels - Galvanized Steel - Qty 2
- Shop: Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C
- Q&A: Correct Inflation Pressure for Trailer 4.80-12 Trailer Tires
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Is It Okay If Trailer Weighs Exactly 2,100 lbs When Loaded and it has Tire Capacity of 2,100
- Q&A: Is Part Number # AM30670 A Wheel and Tire Combo Sold Mounted
- Q&A: Valve Stem Rating of Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel
- Shop: Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range B
- Video: Review of CE Smith Trailer Fenders - Mounting Brackets - CE26062GA
- Shop: Flint Hill Goods Truck Bed Extender - 2" Hitches - 350 lbs
- Search Results: galvanized spare tire carrier
- Video: CE Smith Bolster and Swivel Bracket Assemblies Review
- Search Results: leaf springs
- Search Results: 480x12 tire and rim
- Search Results: 480 x 12 tire
- Video: Universal Group Trailer Suspension - Leaf Spring Suspension - SP-179275 Review
- Search Results: valve stems
- Search Results: anti skid
- Search Results: curt hitch
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Video: CE Smith Trailer Fenders - Top and Side Step - CE19503 Review