Can Higher Capacity 4.80-8 Trailer Tires be Used on a Motorcycle Trailer

Published 06/08/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(7665)

$92.02

Kenda K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range C

(3875)

$27.82

Question:

I have on my trailer 4.80-8 load rated B max load 590 lbs . If I go to a C rated tire will that support my 900 pound motorcycle or should I go for a D rated tire.

asked by: Tyrone

Expert Reply:

Using two 4.80-8 trailer tires rated for 590 pounds each would provide a capacity of 1,180 pounds total. If the motorcycle weighs 900 pounds then it is within the capacity of those tires. Going to a higher capacity tire such as # AM10004 rated for 745 pounds at 90 psi would provide a capacity of 1,490 pounds.

However, using higher capacity tires does not increase the capacity of the trailer. You are still limited to the lowest rated component. So you will still need to go by the trailers gross trailer weight capacity. I have included a helpful link on trailer tires for you.

expert reply by: Michael H