Replacement Tires for 2007 LeesureLite Excel Motorcycle Camper Trailer

Question:

I purchased a used 2007 Leesurelite motorcycle camper trailer with tires that I want to replace. old age and unsure of condition, dry-rot, etc They offer two options, a 4.8-8 standard tire or a wider 16.5/6.5-8 tire. Unloaded base axle weight is 255 lbs. What are the advantages/disadvantages of the narrower tire vs. the wider tire? Would you recommend any other tire size over the two offered?

asked by: Stephen O

Expert Reply:

Although both tire sizes you mention are pretty close in diameter, they would mount on different sized wheels. The 4.8-8 tire, like part # AM10004 works best on a 8 x 3-3/4 inch wide wheel, while the 165/65-8, like part # AM1HP22 (which is the equivalent size to the 16.5 x 6.5-8 you mentioned) works best on a 5-3/8 inch wide wheel.

If you want to use your existing wheels, I would go with whichever tire size matches the wheel. Typically, a wider tire will offer more stability, but with a small, light motorcycle trailer any advantage provided by the wider tire would be tiny.

To retain clearance between the tire and fender and the inside of the tire and the trailer, I would recommend sticking as closely as possible to the original tire size.

Be sure to keep trailer tires fully inflated to the pressure rating listed on the tire sidewall. Trailer tires perform best at their maximum pressure, as opposed to passenger vehicle tires.

I have linked you to some FAQ articles about trailer tires that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L