Are Radial Tires Better than Bias-Ply Tires for a Boat Trailer

Updated 05/11/2015 | Published 05/09/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" Galvanized Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D

(398)

$131.05

Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(629)

$75.43

Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(309)

$102.18

Question:

Would Radial tires be better for a boat trailer than Bias-Ply? Currently my trailer has 4.80 x 12 Tires and the trailer calls for 60 psi. The boat is trailered weekly and the whole setup with boat weighs about 1,400 lbs. I like the idea of aluminum wheels with radial tires if this makes sense. Would this make for a smoother ride? The wheels are 5 on 4.5. What would eTrailer recommend?

asked by: John J

Helpful Expert Reply:

Due to it's construction, a radial tire has more flex and will allow for more ground contact which improves tractions and tread wear. It also gives the radial tire better stability and will normally run cooler which will help the tire last longer, especially when the tire is under a load.

When it comes to radial tires and wheels for your boat trailer, I recommend Kenda S-Trail ST145R12 Radial Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Spoke Wheel, # AM31202. This tire has a section width of 5.7 inches and an outer diameter of 21.3 inches. Since this tire is slightly larger than your current setup with 4.80-12 tires, you will want to take a quick measurement to ensure that you have sufficient clearance on your trailer. If you want this tire on an aluminum wheel, you would need the tire # AM10130 and the Lynx wheel # LH45FR. You would need to have these mounted at a local shop.

We do offer one 4.80-12 radial tire, but it is a load range C. The # TT48012C has a capacity of 990lb max load at 90 psi per tire. This could also be used on the Wheel # LH45FR.

expert reply by: Leah S