Can You Mix Bias And Radial Tires On A Tandem Axle Trailer?
Updated 01/28/2026 | Published 01/13/2026
Question:
What if one trailer axle has bias tires and the rear axle has radials?
asked by: A H
Expert Reply:
Hello, thanks for reaching out.
We do not recommend mixing bias-ply and radial tires on a tandem-axle trailer. While it may work short-term in a pinch, the two tire types flex and track differently. Bias tires have stiffer sidewalls, while radials flex more, which can cause the axles to fight each other slightly. Over time, this often leads to uneven tire wear, increased heat, and the trailer feeling unstable or “pushy” while towing.
Radial tires also tend to run cooler than bias tires, so mixing them can put extra stress on one axle and may contribute to suspension or tire failures. For best handling, tire life, and safety, all tires on the trailer should be the same type, size, and load range. I strongly recommend replacing the bias tires with radials to match.
If you’d like, let me know the tire size and load range you’re running and I can help you find a good radial replacement.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire with 14" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range C
- 205/75-14
- 14 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Kenda
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 175 tire
- Search Results: king pin locks
- Search Results: 12k jack
- Search Results: 36" hitch extension
- Search Results: 36 inch extension hitch adapters
- Search Results: boat trailer winch trailer winch
- Search Results: 054~127~22
- Shop: EZ Loader Equalizer Shackle Hanger - Tandem Axle - Galvanized - Bolt-On - 2" Frame - Qty 1
- Shop: Kodiak Union Fitting for Hydraulic Brake Hose - Brass - 3/16" Female Inverted Flares
- Shop: Replacement Master Cylinder Repair Kit for Model 80LP/85LP Disc Brake Surge Actuators
- Shop: Replacement Master Cylinder Assembly for Dexter Brake Actuators - Disc Brakes
- Shop: Curt 2-Speed Boat Trailer Winch - Zinc - 3,800 lbs
- Shop: Curt Hand Winch Strap with Hook - 23' x 2-3/8" - 4,800 lbs
- Shop: Hand Winch Strap with Safety Hook, 2" Wide x 20' Long - Extra Heavy Duty - 4,800 lbs.
- Video: Andersen Rapid Jack Feature Review
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the Andersen Rapid Jack
- Q&A: Is There A Hitch Extender For 2.5" Hitch With A 7,500lb GTW Capacity
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range C and D ST175/80D13 Trailer Tires
- Q&A: Is There a Trailer Wheel with a 5 on 4-1/4 inch Bolt Pattern
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: What Air Pressure Should Kenda Karrier ST205/75R14 Be Inflated To
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Speed Rating of the Kenda Karrier KR53 ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire Load Range C?
- Q&A: Best ST175/80-13 Tire for Highway Driving and Speeds
- Q&A: Does Trailer Wheel Pilot Diameter Matter when Picking Out New Wheels
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
- Article: Rust Prevention
- Article: Gooseneck to 5th Wheel Adapters
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
Jesse M.
1/27/2026
Hey, did you end up switching all your trailer tires over to radials? Your results could really help others wondering about mixing tire types on tandem axles. Sharing what you noticed after the change would be great for anyone facing the same setup.