Wider Highway-Rated Trailer Tires to Replace 4.80-12

Updated 10/21/2026 | Published 10/19/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(630)

$75.67

Kenda Karrier ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire with 12" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D

(3000)

$126.42

Question:

I have a 5x8 utility trailer with 4.80x12 on 5x4 1/2 wheels. Any recommendations on a wider tire with better speed rating for highway use?

asked by: Shaun H

Expert Reply:

Hey Shaun, welcome back! I recommend upgrading to the Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire # AM10130. It measures 5.7" wide compared to 4.9" for your current tires and has a speed rating of M for 81 mph. You can use your existing 12" wheels, or get the complete tire and wheel assembly # AM35354 with the same 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern.

Just make sure you have enough clearance for the slightly larger tires. Also, keep in mind that your trailer may have an actual speed rating that is lower than these tires so I would make sure you know your limitations before you hit the highway.

What do you typically haul with your utility trailer?

expert reply by: Robin H

Kenda Karrier ST145/R12
(click to enlarge)

Richard F.

10/21/2026

I used the radials on my single axle boat trailer. I have a 20’ pontoon that weighs around 2,000 lbs. These tires are very good.

Robin H.

10/21/2026

@RichardF thanks! Glad to hear the radials have worked well on your pontoon trailer.

Michael B.

10/21/2026

After having 3 tires blow out traveling in the Florida heat, I now use radials on my single axle boat trailer. I have a 16’ Gheenoe. These tires are very good. No issues since switching to radials.

Robin H.

10/21/2026

@MichaelB glad to hear switching to radials solved the problem! Three blowouts sounds frustrating, especially in that Florida heat. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Dave

10/21/2026

I bought the wheel and tire package and am very happy with both. The only downside to the package deal was it included load range D tires which are way over spec for my 300 pound motorcycle trailer. If you are getting just the tires I believe that they carry other load ranges suitable for your trailer.