Recommended Trailer Tire for 4.80-8 4 Trailer Transporting 500lb Motorcycle
Published 08/17/2016 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hello, Main question: What is the right tire for my trailer? Ive got an old motorcycle trailer that needs new tires. The originals appear to be 4.80-8 4 lug. The trailer is 8x54 inch flatbed steel. My bike is under 500lbs. Additional questions: Is there much benefit to going with 5.70-8? What are the pro/cons of a shorter/wider tire K371 vs a taller narrower tire K353? If I go up in load capacity with the K353, do I sacrifice something else? Is there much benefit to buying a 6ply K371? Thanks,
asked by: Paul P
Expert Reply:
It sounds like you meant that your current tire is 4.80/4.00-8. With this tire size you have indicated you have a 4 on 4 bolt pattern.
The right tire for your trailer is one that fits the 3-3/4 inch rim width. In the 4.80/4.00-8 size the Kenda Load Range B # AM10002 or the Load Range C # AM10004.
In the 5.70-8 size, Load Range B # AM10010, Load Range C # AM10012, or Load Range D # AM10013.
In all honesty, I would stick with the higher rated 4.80/4.00-8 Load Range C tire # AM10004, because it is going to give you more than enough weight capacity (1,490lbs) and will be the smoothest ride, and we also know that the tire will fit onto your trailer.
With a taller tire you have to have sufficient clearance to mount it, and the only real advantage is increased weight capacity. Your ride stability will be slightly less because the center of gravity will be higher so you may get more sway when towing.
When a tire is given a 'ply rating', it doesn't necessarily indicate the number of layers of material the tire is constructed of. As the need for greater fuel economy and the cost of materials rises, the tire manufacturers have gone to using lighter but stronger materials like Kevlar that provide the same strength that would have took several layers of materials years ago. Fewer layers also means less heat build-up, which is essential for longer tire life.
I have linked all the above mentioned products to this page for your viewing and purchasing convenience.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range C
- 4.80/4.00-8
- 8 Inch
- Kenda
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Kenda K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range C
- Shop: Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 5.70-8 - Load Range B
- Q&A: Tires With Higher Speed Rating for Motorcycle Trailer With 4.80/4.00-8 Tires
- Q&A: Does Kenda K371 Bias Trailer Tire AM10004 Have Speed Rating
- Q&A: Speed Rating of 8 Inch Trailer Tires
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range B and C Trailer Tires
- Q&A: Which is Better for Highway Use 4.80-12 or 5.30-12 Trailer TIres
- Q&A: Is There Downside to Going with Higher Rated Trailer Tire than Needed
- Q&A: Compatible 4.80 X 8 Trailer Tire That Can Handle Highway Speeds
- Shop: Kenda Loadstar K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range B
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Power Mountain Tallboy Off-Road Bottle Jack - 8-1/2" to 37-3/4" Lift - 6 Tons
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Video: Firestone Ride-Rite Air Bags with Easy Mount Compressor Feature Breakdown
- Shop: etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Collar for 2" Hitch Receivers
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Hub Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)



