Radial or Bias Ply Tire Recommendation for Trailer with 205/75R14 Tires

Question:

Which is best: Radial or Biased? I have a dual axle sailboat trailer w/ 3500 lb. axles with ST205/75 D14 tires, load range C. It weighs around 4000 lbs. I am going to refit it with a new SS Disc brake system, and new tires. I plan to take it from Michigan to Florida, and other long distance trips in fresh and salt water in the winter months. What are your recommendations for Tire size, load rating, and brand

asked by: Terry M

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.

For a radial trailer tire in the ST205/75R14 size you have I would recommend the part # TR20514 as it has a higher speed rating than most trailer tires at 81 mph.