Comparing Radial And Bias Ply Tires For Utility Trailer Carrying UTV

Question:

Hello. I live in Costa Rica and the highest capacity tire available in a 13inch rim is a 165r13 LRD, so I find myself obligated to search in the US and have them sent here. The single axle trailer hauls a 2019 Kawasaki Mule Pro FXT weighing almost a ton. As you can imagine I have already had a couple of tire failures. Roads here are in poor conditions, lots of potholes on highways and even worse gravel roads. Most mileage is on highway albeit Costa Rica is a small country and distances are not far. Only twice a year would I be making a 200 mile trip trips are generally about 100 highway miles and 10-15 gravel road miles, average speed around 60 mph... all things considered, should I be considering a bias or radial tire?

asked by: Cristian Z

Expert Reply:

I would go with a radial tire like the Kenda Karrier ST185/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D # AM10208 which will run cooler than a bias tire and the flexible sidewall will allow more tread to contact the road.

Since you are primarily driving on the highway this would be the best choice.

With either option I would do your best to avoid large potholes as hitting them will not be good for either tire at highway speeds.

I included a video of the # AM10208 for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C