Best Trailer Tire Recommendation for a 12 Inch Rim
Question:
i have a motorcycle trailer,need tires for it, Im comparing the 4.80-12 bias load range C with the 5.30-12 bias load range C. My motorcycle weighs 850lbs, the trailer about 250 lbs., would you say the 4.80 would perform just as good on a long trip as the 5.30 ? also would the 5.30-12 bias load range D be to much tire for the trailer? Thanks
asked by: Lupe S
Expert Reply:
The difference between the two trailer sizes you referenced is that the 5.30-12 will be about 1-1/2 inches taller than the 4.80-12 and would have more capacity. As long as your trailer has the clearance for a slightly taller and wider tire a 5.30-12 would be a great option. However, either would have enough capacity and wouldn't offer a significant ride quality improvement over the other.
All things being equal I would go with the larger tire as it will spin slower at the same speed as a smaller tire and would create less heat. But for an even better option I would go with a 145-80-12 tire like part # AM10130 since it is a radial tire which is far superior to bias ply tires like what the other two tires are only available in. This tire is about the same size as the other tires as well.
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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range D
- 145/80-12
- 12 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
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Gunny
4/27/2020
I currently have 12 inch trailers on my trailer. The rims are 4.5 from lug nut to lug nut.I am wanting to put larger radial tires on the trailer,, however I would like to use the same rims if possible.I have enough clearance for up to a 15 inch tire.The Over all weight that would be on the trailer would be around 1200 to 1300 pounds. What would be your recommendation Thank you .