Radial vs Bias Ply Type Special Trailer Tires for Long-Distance Cross-Country Travel

Question:

I have a small travel trailer with 13 inch tires ,going to take it cross country which tires would be better biased or radial it weighs 2200lbs

asked by: Al L

Expert Reply:

For long-distance highway driving where interstate speed limits can get pretty high you will be better off with radial special trailer tires. Radial tires have more sidewall flex which lets them corner better and they can sometimes have higher speed ratings than bias ply tires.

You will want to make sure the tires have the required load capacity for the loaded trailer weight. Special trailer tires come in various Load Ranges so choose the load range tire that gives you some safety margin. Also always observe the rated speed limit for a trailer tire; driving on a tire at a speed higher than it can handle will cause excess heat build-up. Last, always make sure your special trailer tiers are inflated to the cold psi pressure noted on the tire sidewall. Never under- or over-inflate a trailer tire.

Any of these three concerns - speed, weight and inflation - affect the heat produced in a tire and since heat is a tire's worst enemy always be sire to select tires with the appropriate weight and speed ratings for your anticipated driving conditions.

I have linked two helpful articles on trailer tires and our main page displaying all the 13-inch special trailer tires we offer.

expert reply by: Adam R