What Size 12 Inch Tire For 1,200 lb Kayak Trailer

Updated 10/10/2023 | Published 10/09/2023

Question:

Im purchasing a 16foot long, 54inch wide galvanized kayak trailer with a 1200 lb load capacity, and we expect to haul 4 kayaks 250 lbs max and some camping gear 500 lbs. We will be hauling long distances at highway speeds 10 hours one way on an interstate. I am concerned about trailer sway so well be careful about weight distribution and blowouts due to heat build up. Considering whether its better to go with 4.8 R12Bs, or 5.3 R12Ds 6-ply vs 8-ply, if I remember correctly, both are bias tires out of hard rubber that allegedly is designed for highway use. My understanding is the 5.3D will have more risk of bouncing when lightly loaded, and they build up more heat because of the greater contact with the road...but will the stronger ply construction offset that, and reduce blow-out risk? Or should we go with a radial ST145/R12 10 ply, I believe, that has the steel layer to help dissipate heat, and will be less prone to bouncing when lightly loaded. Or will using an ST145/R12 on a trailer with a gross weight of 1000 lbs introduce too much flex movement and increase trailer sway? Im so confused...trying to figure out which is the safest option! Any informed opinions to share? Thanks!

asked by: Brenda M

Expert Reply:

The ply count of a tire is not really something to focus on, what you want in order to ensure you don't have a lot of bouncing is a tire that has the proper load range. In your case, for a 1,200 lb capacity kayak trailer and about 750 lbs of gear you want a 4,80-12 load range B tire:

- Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire # AM10060

This tire has a 785 lb per tire capacity at 60 psi (so 1,570 lbs with two), but you can inflate it to about 55 psi which will also lessen any bouncing. There won't be an issue with a blowout since you aren't overloading your trailer, just be sure to stay at or under the 65 mph limit of the tire and you're set.

expert reply by: Kyle S