Comparing Bias Trailer Tires with Radial Trailer Tires for an Enclosed Snowmobile Trailer

Published 02/20/2014

Question:

i am going to do some work to my 4-place open snowmobile trailer over the summer. it has 20.5-8.0-10 on it now and needs new tires. the trailer is used on highway for 300+ mile trips 3 or 4 times a season. all enclosed trailers around here have 13 inch radial tires. my trailer will allow up to 15 inch tires as an option. seems like radials are an upgrade. being used for highway primarily should i go up to 13 inch radial. would 13 inch be less wear on bearings than the 10. only used for highway in wisconsin winters.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

The benefit of going to a larger tire is that you will have less revolutions on a larger tire than on a smaller one meaning that the larger tire will not wear out as fast. The additional weight of a larger tire is not something to be concerned about as far as the bearings go as long as the trailer is still under its gross capacity.

As long as the trailer can accept the larger size without interference with the trailer body and frame there is no reason not to go to a larger size.

There is one possible issue and that is if you go to a tire that raises the height of the trailer, which is likely if you go from a 10 to a 15, then that raises the center of gravity on the trailer making it more susceptible to sway.

Radial tires track better and run cooler than bias ply tires so they are ideal for highway travels. I have included some links on tires and wheels for you. If you go to a larger size make sure you get the right capacity and bolt pattern for the wheel.

expert reply by: Michael H