Bias Ply vs. Radial Trailer Tire for Utility Trailer

Published 06/07/2016

Question:

My utility trailer came with bias ply tires. Now that I need to replace them, is there an advantage to radial tires over bias for a utility / car hauler application? Thanks,

asked by: Clark F

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, radial tires are much preferred over bias ply tires for a number of reasons.

The main difference between a radial ply and a bias ply tire is how the tire is constructed. The cords inside a bias ply tire run at a 32 degree angle to the direction of travel, and the cords on a radial tire run at a 90 degree angle to the direction of travel, or across the tire from wheel lip to wheel lip.

A radial tire flexes more than a bias tire, giving it better ground contact, traction, stability, and tread wear.

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 attached a link to a page that has all of the radial trailer tires we offer for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C