Bias Ply vs. Radial Trailer Tire for Utility Trailer
Question:
My utility trailer came with bias ply tires. Now that I need to replace them, is there an advantage to radial tires over bias for a utility / car hauler application? Thanks,
asked by: Clark F
Helpful Expert Reply:
Yes, radial tires are much preferred over bias ply tires for a number of reasons.
The main difference between a radial ply and a bias ply tire is how the tire is constructed. The cords inside a bias ply tire run at a 32 degree angle to the direction of travel, and the cords on a radial tire run at a 90 degree angle to the direction of travel, or across the tire from wheel lip to wheel lip.
A radial tire flexes more than a bias tire, giving it better ground contact, traction, stability, and tread wear.
A radial tire will normally run cooler than a bias ply tire, especially when the tire is under a load. A tire that runs cooler will last longer.
A bias ply tire has a stiffer sidewall than a radial, a feature that might be useful for off road applications like farm use.
At one time radials were more expensive than bias ply tires, but now they are closer in price. This makes radials a much better value.
I attached a link to a page that has all of the radial trailer tires we offer for you to check out.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White 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 - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 14" White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Shop: Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - Easy Grease - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Shop: Provider ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Shop: Dexter Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes - 5 on 4-1/2 Bolt Pattern - 89" Long - 3,500 lbs
- Video: Review of CURT Adjustable Weight Distribution 2 Inch Shank - C17100
- Shop: Curt Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank - 8"
- Video: Review of etrailer by AxleTek Trailer Axles - 3,500 lbs 89 Inch Axle with Electric Brakes - e43SR
- Q&A: Best Trailer Tire Recommendation for a 12 Inch Rim
- Q&A: Can a 145R12 Tire Replace a 4.80x12 Bias Trailer Tire Size
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR D
- Q&A: Dexter vs. etrailer 7,000 lb Electric Trailer Brakes
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Difference Between Trailer Tire Sizes ST205/75R15 and ST225/75R15
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Brakes For An AL-KO T35 Axle On A 2008 Springdale RD179
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between ST205/75-14 and ST215/75-14 Size Tires
- Article: 5 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Trailer’s Leaf Springs
- Q&A: Do Both Tires on Axle Need to Be Replaced At Same Time
- Search Results: curt drop shank
- Video: Dexter Axle Trailer Axles - Leaf Spring Suspension - 35545E-ST-89 Review
- Search Results: spare tire mount
- Video: Review of Kenda Trailer Tires and Wheels - Tire with Wheel - AM32161
- Video: Kenda Tires and Wheels - Tire with Wheel - AM32253DX Review
- Search Results: trailer deck screws
- Search Results: trailer hubs
- Shop: Truck Bed Bike Rack
- Search Results: truck bed bike racks
- Video: Review of Taskmaster Trailer Tires and Wheels - Tire Only - TT48012C