Can Bias Trailer Tires Be Replaced with Radial Trailer Tires
Question:
I have bias ply trailer tires and ordered radials they should fit ok right the I ordered the same size in the radial?
asked by: Mark K
Expert Reply:
Yes, as long as the actual tire size is the same, a radial ply tire like the Kenda ST185/80R13 # AM10208 will fit onto the wheel just the same as the bias alternative # AM1ST79 it's replacing. Radial trailer tires differ from bias models due to the 90 degree angle the cords run to the direction of travel (compared to a 32 degree angle on bias). This allows radials to flex a bit more for better ground contact and stability.
The physical fit onto an existing wheel and trailer suspension setup is identical though.
When making this kind of change you will just want to make sure that all the tires on the trailer are now radial models. Mixing bias and radial tires on the same trailer can lead to uneven tread wear and possible heat build up.

Products Referenced in This Question
Kenda Karrier ST185/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range D
- 185/80-13
- 13 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
Loadstar ST185/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range D
- 185/80-13
- 13 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Loadstar ST185/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range D
- 185/80-13
- 13 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Best Load Range C Radial Trailer Tire in Size 4.80-12
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR D
- Shop: Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C
- Shop: Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80-12 - Load Range B
- Shop: Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80-12 - Load Range C
- Shop: Kenda 205/65-10 Bias Trailer Tire with 10" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range E
- Q&A: Radial Trailer Tire to Replace Bias Ply 4.80-12 Trailer Tires
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST205/75R15 Trailer Tire with Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 15" Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Q&A: Recommended Wheels And Tires For Haulmark 5x8 Cargo Trailer.
- Q&A: Choosing Between Radial or Bias Ply Tires for Boat Trailer
- Q&A: Difference Between Tire Sizes 4.80-12 and 5.30-12
- Q&A: Increasing Wheel/Tire Size on Carry-On Utility Trailer
- Search Results: boat trailer spare tire
- Video: All About the CE Smith Offset Spare Tire Mount
- Video: Feature Review CE Smith Offset Spare Tire Mount
- Q&A: How to Pick Out Spare Wheel and Tire for a Boat Trailer
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Search Results: spare tire mount
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: RV Bearing
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Video: Finding the Right Trailer Wiring Harness
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Search Results: trailer hitch