Radial Trailer Tire Recommendation for a 2012 Kendon Motorcycle Trailer with ST175/80D13 Tires

Updated 03/10/2016 | Published 03/09/2016

Question:

Hi there, Im looking for replacement tires for my 2012 Kendon 3 rail motorcycle trailer tire size: ST175/80D13. Kendon is now 2015+ using radial tires as they state this gives a smoother ride. I noticed commentary on your site that bias ply tires allow the entire carcass to flex, resulting in a smoother ride... Which do you recommend as replacement tires for this trailer? What are the pros/cons with radial vs bias ply, for a motorcycle trailer like this with independent torsion type suspension? Thanks. Brian

asked by: Brian D

Expert Reply:

Actually a radial tire flexes more than a bias tire, giving it better ground contact, traction, stability, and tread wear. I would highly recommend that style of tire for your trailer.

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.

A bias ply tire has a stiffer sidewall than a radial, a feature that might be useful for off road applications like farm use.

At one time radials were more expensive than bias ply tires, but now they are closer in price. This makes radials a much better value.

I would recommend the part # TTWTRTM1758013C as it is a radial in the size you need and because it has a higher speed rating than most trailer tire at 81 miles per hour.

expert reply by: Jameson C