travel trailer tire speed ratings

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What Is A Trailer Tire Speed Rating And Why And How Does It Matter?

• Last Updated: March 22, 2024
• 5 minutes read

Speed limits are intended to keep drivers safe from the traffic and stretch of road they are driving on.

Though speed ratings are assigned to tires based on the materials they are made from, the type of vehicle they can be installed on, and load dynamics they are capable of. 

Of course, tire speed ratings take on a whole new dimension when the load we are talking about is a travel trailer or similar type of RV. In this context, the load is considered to be the trailer’s total weight or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) when the tire is brand new. 

As time goes on, other factors like wear & tear, the level of inflation and even the weather can impact the speed that you can safely travel with your travel trailer.

Even if the speed limit says one thing, your tire’s speed rating is still the presiding factor. 

How Can I Find Out My Trailer Tire’s Speed Rating?

Tire manufacturers will embed the speed rating of a tire on the sidewall, and then also include it in the owner’s manual or similar documents when you purchase the tire.

In the case of a vehicle or a motorhome, you can also find the speed rating for the tires printed inside the driver’s door well.

It will be printed along with other critical information like GVWR and towing capacity.

Though these numbers are only specifically related to the brand and type of tire that the vehicle, truck, or motorhome came with when it was new off the line.

If you or a previous owner have changed the tires, the information might not match, as it is related specifically to that type of tire. 

How To Read A Tire’s Speed Rating On The Sidewall ?

The tire’s sidewall is truly the best source of information for determining the speed rating.

Though you do need to know how to decode all of the numbers. In this case, the information that you need is attached to the last “Letter” printed on the technical description on the sidewall of the tire.

If a tire is imprinted with a code like 2015/60R15 91V, the tire speed has a V rating.

What Do The Different Letters Mean on the Tire’s Sidewall? 

Over the years the different types of letter designations for tires have evolved from three to as many as 20.

Though for the average person or RV owner the labels of B through V mean that the tire has a speed range from 31 to 149 miles per hour.

The other letters beyond V are for high-performance vehicles or race cars. 

The letters G, J, K, and L are used for tires that have a speed rating between 65 to 75 miles per hour.

In the example where the tire has a V-rating, it means the maximum speed is 149 miles per hour or lower.

Though 148 miles per hour is always an unsafe speed to be towing your travel trailer or driving your motorhome. 

Why Are Tire Speed Ratings Important? 

Trailer tire speed ratings were developed to protect the trailer tire from failing at its highest capacities. Knowing the recommended speed for your RVs tires helps you drive safely. 

The laws of physics dictate that when a tire rolls along the road surface that there is a massive centripetal acceleration force that affects the vulcanized rubber.

The engineered structure of the tire with nylon or steel bands helps the vulcanized rubber manage these forces.

Though when the speed the tire rolls at goes too high, it exceeds the structural integrity, and can then break the bands, resulting in tire failure. 

Another factor applied to these dynamics is that as the speed of the tire increases, so does its friction relationship with the road surface.

This produces heat, which can break down rubber and cause damage as well.

A vehicle that is driven above the speed rating of the tires will often shake or wobble due to the damage occurring in the tires. 

Why Do Trailer Tires Have A Lower Speed Rating? 

Originally trailer tires were only rated for a maximum speed rating of 55 miles per hour.

This was considered the prevailing “Safe Highway Speed.” Over the years, speed limits have continued to climb throughout North America, and trailer tire speeds ratings have advanced to keep pace.

Today a lot of trailer tires are rated for 80 to 90 miles per hour. Though most trailer tires still have lower speed ratings than car and pickup truck tires. 

From an engineering standpoint, trailer tires are constructed with a price-conscious mentality.

This helps keep the cost down to the consumer. Tire manufacturers recognize that the majority of trailer tires will not travel as many miles and will inevitably suffer less wear and tear than a transport vehicle. 

This reduces the bias-ply or radial ply layers that imbue the tires with the capacity to bear heavy loads, though it sacrifices some of their integrity for things like cornering at speed.

This means that most trailer tires have a real-world speed rating of 65 miles per hour or less.

What Happens If You Exceed A Tire’s Speed Rating?

The first thing you typically notice when you drive faster than the tire’s speed rating is a strange sort of wobble or pulsating wiggle.

This is a sign that the immense stress being placed on the tire is causing excessive heat and is also affecting air pressure. This is the earliest stage of tire failure. 

As the structure inside the tire starts to break down the wobble will rapidly get worse. Until the tire completely fails, which typically causes a massive blowout .

This can damage your vehicle, your trailer and pose a severe threat to surrounding motorists. 

Is The Tire Speed Rating Important When Towing A Travel Trailer? 

The tire speed rating is even more important when towing a travel trailer. A lot of cars, trucks, and SUVs have tires that are rated to handle speeds beyond mot interstate speed limits.

Though most travel trailers and towable RVs only have a tire speed rating of 65 miles per hour or less. 

This essentially means that when you are towing a trailer of any kind, including a travel trailer, pop-up camper, teardrop camper, or fifth-wheel trailer you need to limit your overall road speed to the trailer tire’s speed rating.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Trailer Tire Speed Rating

Time To Read:

• Tire Speed Rating Chart
• Getting a Grip on Tire Basics
• Speed Ratings: What Are They?
• Why Do Speed Ratings Matter?
• Trailer Tires Vs. Passenger Tires and Truck Tires
• Delving Deeper into Trailer Tire Speed Ratings
• Load Index and How It Impacts Speed
• The Reality of Driving with a Trailer
• Reading a Tire's Sidewall
• Final Thoughts

You’re heading down the highway, trailer in tow, and your eyes catch a sign: “Trailer speed limit: 55 mph”. But you remember that your tires and notice a  speed rating  of ‘L’. You start wondering, “What’s this ‘L’ all about? Can my trailer tires handle more speed?” Understanding your trailer tire speed ratings is like decoding a secret language – and it’s a language that speaks volumes about your safety on the road.

Trailer Tire Speed Rating Trailer tire speed ratings, represented by letters on the tire’s sidewall, indicate the maximum speed your tires can safely handle when properly inflated and under load. The ratings typically range from ‘L’ (75 mph) to ‘N’ (87 mph) for most trailer tires.

In this article, we’ll demystify the world of tire speed ratings. We’ll discuss the differences between trailer tires, truck tires, and passenger car tires, delve deeper into trailer tire speed ratings and their significance, explore the realities of driving with a trailer, and finally, teach you how to read and understand a tire’s sidewall.

Let’s take a closer look.

Before we dive into speed ratings, it’s important to get the lowdown on tires in general. Tires are essentially your vehicle’s shoes – just like the right pair of sneakers can help you run faster, the right tires can affect how fast your vehicle can safely go.

What’s With All the Numbers and Letters?

Every tire comes with a series of numbers and letters printed on the sidewall. These aren’t just for show – they tell you some crucial info about your tire, like its width, aspect ratio, construction type, and diameter. But we’re here to focus on two specific elements – speed rating and load index.

The tire speed rating, often a single letter found at the end of the tire size info, tells you the maximum speed a tire can handle when properly inflated and not carrying more than its maximum load. It’s like a speed limit for your tire!

Here are some common speed ratings:

• S: Up to 112 mph
• T: Up to 118 mph
• U: Up to 124 mph
• H: Up to 130 mph
• V: Up to 149 mph

This doesn’t mean you should go driving at these speeds, of course! It’s more of a way to measure a tire’s overall performance.

You might be thinking, “I never drive over the speed limit, so why do I need to worry about tire speed ratings?” Well, even if you’re not hitting top speeds, the speed rating still matters a lot!

Here’s why:

• Performance : Higher speed ratings often mean better handling and stopping capabilities. If you need to swerve suddenly or hit the brakes, a tire with a higher speed rating could make all the difference.
• Heat Resistance : Speed ratings also reflect a tire’s ability to disperse heat. Tires that can’t handle high speeds may build up heat quickly, which could lead to tire failure.
• Safety : Driving on tires with an improper speed rating could be dangerous. If a tire isn’t designed to handle the speeds you’re driving at, it could fail, putting you and others on the road in danger.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. All tires might look pretty similar, but there are some important differences between trailer tires, truck tires, and passenger car tires. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t wear flip-flops to play soccer, right? Similarly, different types of vehicles need different types of tires.

What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick breakdown of these three types of tires:

• Passenger Tires : These are the most common type of tires you’ll see on the road. They’re designed for comfort, noise reduction, and fuel efficiency.
• Truck Tires : Also known as light truck tires, these are designed for pickup trucks, SUVs, and similar vehicles. They’re built to handle heavy loads and off-road driving conditions.
• Trailer Tires : These are specially designed for trailers. They’re built to handle heavy loads, but unlike truck and passenger tires, they’re not meant for steering or driving traction.

Can I Put Regular Truck Tires on My Trailer?

You might think, “Truck tires are designed for heavy loads… so why not just put them on my trailer?” Well, remember our shoe analogy? Just like wearing hiking boots to a ballet class wouldn’t work, putting truck tires on a trailer isn’t usually a good idea.

• Different Functions : Truck tires are designed for traction and control, while trailer tires are designed to simply follow the tow vehicle. Using truck tires on a trailer could actually decrease your trailer’s stability.
• Heat Resistance : Trailer tires are built to withstand heat better than truck tires. When you’re towing a heavy load, the tires can heat up quickly, so this heat resistance is crucial.

Alright, now that we’ve established the differences between trailer tires, truck tires, and passenger car tires, let’s get back to the main event: speed ratings. We know they’re essential for all tires, but what about specifically for trailer tires? Let’s dive in!

Common Speed Ratings for Trailer Tires

When it comes to trailer tires, most have speed ratings that fall within the range of ‘L’ to ‘N’. That translates to maximum safe speeds between 75 and 87 mph. To put it in perspective:

• L: Up to 75 mph
• M: Up to 81 mph
• N: Up to 87 mph

Remember, just because the tire can technically handle these speeds doesn’t mean you should be cruising down the highway with your trailer at these speeds. Always follow the legal speed limits and drive according to road conditions.

What’s the Maximum Speed Rating for Trailer Tires?

While most trailer tires fall in the ‘L’ to ‘N’ speed rating range, some are designed to handle higher speeds. However, the speed rating of a tire doesn’t only depend on its design but also the load it’s carrying. Which brings us to our next point – the load index.

The load index is another important bit of info on your tire’s sidewall. It tells you how much weight a tire can safely carry when it’s fully inflated. The higher the load index, the more weight the tire can carry.

But how does this relate to speed? Well, the more weight you’re towing, the more stress it puts on your tires. This can make them heat up quicker, which could potentially lower the maximum safe speed. So, it’s essential to consider both the speed rating and the load index when figuring out how fast you can safely drive with your trailer.

Now, we’ve covered a lot about tires, speed ratings, and load indexes. But what does this all mean when you’re actually on the road towing a trailer? Let’s get into that!

How Fast Can You Drive with a Trailer?

You might have seen that most trailer tire speed ratings are around ‘L’ to ‘N’, which is up to 75 to 87 mph. But here’s the kicker: just because your tires  can  handle that speed doesn’t mean you  should  drive that fast.

Driving with a trailer is a whole different ball game than regular driving. You’ve got more weight to control, and your vehicle will handle differently. So, even if your tires can technically handle 87 mph, you might want to stick closer to the speed limit, which is often lower for vehicles towing trailers. And always, always drive slower in bad weather or poor road conditions.

Importance of Adhering to Speed Limits to Avoid Tire Failure

Let’s talk about tire failure for a second. When your tire fails, it can cause a blowout or even make you lose control of your vehicle. And guess what one of the main causes of tire failure is? You got it – driving too fast.

Driving fast can make your tires heat up, especially if they’re carrying a heavy load. And if a tire gets too hot, it can fail. So, sticking to the speed limit isn’t just about avoiding a ticket – it can actually prevent a serious accident.

RV Tire Speed Rating and Its Influence on Speed

If you’re driving an RV, the same rules apply. Your RV tires will have a speed rating and load index, just like trailer tires. The RV tire speed rating tells you how fast your tires can safely go when carrying a maximum load.

But remember, driving an RV is different from driving a regular car. You’ll need to take turns slower, allow more time to stop, and generally drive at a slower pace, especially on highways.

Reading a Tire’s Sidewall

Think of a tire’s sidewall like the label on a food package. It’s full of useful information, once you know how to read it! Understanding this info can help you choose the right tires for your vehicle and keep you safer on the road. Let’s get into it!

How to Find a Tire’s Speed Rating and Load Index

On a tire’s sidewall, you’ll see a string of numbers and letters that might look like a secret code. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it seems. Let’s break it down:

Here’s an example:  ST205/75R15 L 107/102 M

• ST  tells us this is a Special Trailer tire.
• 205  is the tire’s width in millimeters.
• 75  is the aspect ratio.
• R  tells us the tire’s construction (Radial in this case).
• 15  is the wheel diameter in inches.
• L  is the load range, telling us about the tire’s ply rating.
• 107/102  is the load index, a measure of the maximum load the tire can carry.
• M  is the speed rating, telling us the maximum speed the tire can safely handle.

Now, you might not need to know all this info all the time, but it’s especially handy to understand the load index and speed rating.

Why It’s Important

You might be wondering why you should bother to learn this “tire language”. Well, here’s why:

• Safety : Understanding the information on your tire’s sidewall can help you make sure you’re using the right tires for your vehicle and that you’re not overloading them or driving too fast.
• Performance : Using the right tires can improve your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. It can also extend the life of your tires.
• Cost : Using the wrong tires or misusing them can lead to premature tire failure, which can be expensive (not to mention dangerous).

Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires

• How to pick the best trailer tire – Driving Line
• Is it dangerous to tow a trailer faster than 55 mph? – Mortons on the Move

We’ve covered a lot of ground, from the basics of tire speed ratings and the critical differences between trailer, truck, and passenger car tires to the reality of hitting the road with a trailer. The key takeaway? Your trailer tire’s speed rating is a critical piece of information that denotes the maximum speed your tires can safely handle. Pair that with your tire’s load index, and you have a roadmap for safe, efficient towing.

Remember, while your tire’s speed rating might allow for high speeds, the actual driving conditions, vehicle handling, and legal speed limits should dictate your driving speed. After all, safety is the ultimate goal. Next time you glance at your tire’s sidewall, you’ll be able to decode that ‘secret language’ and understand exactly what it’s telling you.

Good luck and happy motoring.

About The Author

Will, the founder of TireGrades.com, is a tire expert and car enthusiast with roots in the industry dating back to his childhood next to the founder of Parrish Tire. His expertise, honed through a consulting role with Discount Tire, encompasses developing training courses and strategic planning.

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina—a hub for tire manufacturing and NASCAR—Will’s three-decade passion with all things on 4 wheels includes involvement in SCCA events and local car clubs. At TireGrades.com, he dedicates himself to providing practical solutions and reliable information for common tire-related queries, helping vehicle owners make informed decisions.

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8 Best Travel Trailer Tires. Tires for Towing a Travel Trailer or Camper

If you own a travel trailer, having the best travel trailer tires will ensure your trailer is secure and safe when you hit the road. Travel trailer tires are specially designed for use with trailers, so they have a particular tread pattern, ply rating and sidewall thickness that differs from standard car tires.

Travel trailer tires are also constructed from robust materials that are capable of withstanding the pressure they will be under as you haul your trailer. Unlike regular tires, trailer tires have a high load capacity; therefore, they can support your trailer without failing and putting yourself and other drivers at risk.

Clearly, it’s crucial that you choose the right tires travel trailer to ensure the safety of yourself and other road users. But, if you’re new to the world of trailer tires, navigating the range of options can be confusing.

If this sounds like you, don’t worry. In this guide, we have compiled a list of eight of the very best travel trailer tires on the market today, and included a useful buying guide to help you make the right choice.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire
• 1.2 Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire
• 1.3 Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire
• 1.4 Goodyear Endurance Radial Tire
• 1.5 Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire
• 1.6 eCustomRim Trailer Tire On Rim
• 1.7 Wheels Express Travel Trailer Tires
• 1.8 Grand Ride Trailer Tires
• 2 Compare the Best Travel Trailer Tires
• 3.2 Load Range/Load Rating and Max Weight
• 3.4 Intended Use and Cargo Weight
• 3.5 Durability, Longevity, and Sidewall Strength
• 3.6 Pressure Rating
• 3.7 Speed Rating
• 4.1 Radial Trailer Tires
• 4.2 Bias Trailer Tires
• 5 Top Travel Trailer Tires Video
• 6 Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Trailer Tires
• 7 Final Thoughts

Best Travel Trailer Tires

To save you hours of research, we have selected eight of the best travel trailer tires money can buy. We made sure to choose a variety of options with different load ranges – so there’s something to suit every setup.

Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

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First on our list is the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire . This high-quality model is specifically designed for use with travel trailers and fifth wheels. It has a 15-inch rim size and a unique tread pattern.

This improved tread pattern is designed to promote even wear across the tire over time, so you can expect reliable performance as the miles rack up. This ensures your tires last longer, remain stable, and don’t suffer from one overly-worn patch that puts you more at risk of a sudden failure on the road.

As well as this smart tread pattern, the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire has anti-weathering and UV protective properties that defend it from environmental damage all year around. It has also been tested to resist very high road temperatures, so you can drive your rig with confidence in the summer months.

Other great features include low rolling resistance to improve fuel economy, and an impressive 2150 pound load capacity. Thanks to their varied pitch pattern, these tires are quieter on the road than other models, too, so you can enjoy long-haul sections of your journey without an annoying whine in your ears.

With an “M” speed rating, these tires are capable of reaching up to 87mph, which is well in excess of not only the speed limit, but any speed you’re likely to reach while pulling a travel trailer. On the downside, some users have complained that these tires are a little difficult to fit – so if you’re inexperienced, you may have to pay someone else to do this for you.

All in all, the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire is an excellent choice of travel trailer tire for year-around travel. We like how the smart tread design promotes even wear, and the environmental protective properties ensure they can withstand tough conditions without weakening.

Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire

Another great choice of travel trailer tire is the Maxxis M8008 ST Radial . This model is very popular and also has an advanced tread for optimum performance and durability. This tire has a 15-inch rim size and a load capacity of 2830 pounds.

This durable tire boasts a double steel-belted design for strength and increased stability when towing. This feature should put your mind at rest if you’re pulling a large, heavy trailer on a long road trip. Many users have commented that due to these features, this tire is super reliable for extended journeys of 1,000s of miles.

Alongside this strength and stability, the Maxxis M8008 also has an advanced tread design that reduces wear and rolling resistance. This helps to improve your fuel economy and increases the overall life span of the tire, so you can get more use out of it before it requires replacing.

Another useful feature is its shock absorption qualities. If you hit the backroads and are likely to come across some bumpy routes, the integrated shock absorption is well worth having. Every time you hit a bump, the pressure in the tire momentarily increases which puts you at risk of blowouts. It’s not totally foolproof, but this feature allows you to drive over rough patches without gritting your teeth.

This model is one of the pricier options on our list, but considering its durability and reliability, we think it’s a worthwhile investment if you often head out for long-distance trips.

Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire

Coming from a well-known and popular manufacturer – our next pick for the best travel trailer tire is the Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire .

This tire has an established reputation and is easily capable of handling large trailer applications like fifth wheelers. It comes compatible with 16-inch rims and a 75mph speed rating.

Made from heavy-duty rubber, this hard-wearing tire also features a premium enhanced casing for additional toughness. The shallow tread has been specially designed to promote even wear patterns and reduce the running temperatures for increased durability. The shoulder ribs are solid and rounded to provide stability, as well as encourage even wear.

If you tend to hit the road in the summer months or don’t have a nice shaded space to park your trailer, you’ll also appreciate the UV protective qualities. Of course, you should still cover your tires during storage, but it’s good to know that they can handle summer road trips in strong sunshine and high temperatures.

This model provides a single max load of 3,750 pounds, or a dual load limit of 3,415 pounds – making it ideal for weighty applications. We also like that Goodyear offers a free replacement service within either 12 months or the first 2/32″ of treadwear, whatever comes first – another reason to trust the quality of their products.

This model is pretty expensive, but if you need a heavy-duty tire that can handle heavy loads, you can’t go wrong with this tire.

Goodyear Endurance Radial Tire

Another great pick from Goodyear is the Goodyear Endurance Radial Tire . This model fits a 14-inch rim size and has a lower load capacity of 1,700 pounds, so it’s better suited to lighter trailer loads.

The Goodyear Endurance Radial Tire is made from enhanced rubber compound materials for high-strength and durability. It includes a scuff guard to shield the edges of the tire wall from damage if you get too close to the curb, or brush against the undergrowth on narrow roads.

The fabric-steel design of this tire is incredibly rugged, which makes it a good option for long distance trips where the roads could be a little rough. Even though it has all these resilience features, it’s still fully compatible with standard tire inflation stations and pressure monitoring systems, so you shouldn’t have any trouble maintaining them during your journey.

Created for endurance, these tires are resistant to temperature increases and maintain a good, stable tracking when towing. The tread is designed to wear evenly as the miles pass by, so you won’t need to worry about the blowout risk from weak spots developing over time.

This tire may be a little awkward to install if you’re not used to doing it yourself. Thankfully, Goodyear offers a reasonably-priced professional install service, so you can take advantage of this to save yourself the hassle. These tires also come with Goodyear’s free replacement service if the tire fails within 12 months or the first 2/32″ of treadwear – providing peace of mind that you’re covered in the event something unexpected happens.

Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire

Next up we have the Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire . This durable model is a great choice for RV owners, thanks to its strength, resilience and range of safety features.

One key feature of this travel trailer tire is its center groove. This groove ensures consistent tracking and keeps your tires stable, so you can drive with added peace of mind that your tires are working to keep your setup balanced and secure. The groove also assists with grip in poor weather conditions, which is great if you take trips in your RV all year round.

This model has a load capacity of 2833 pounds, making it ideal for heavy applications. The nylon overlay construction adds extra strength that allows it to easily handle hefty loads without wearing quickly, so it’s a good choice for long distance trips when you’re hauling a lot of weight.

The Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire has a more than adequate, “M” speed rating of 81mph. The improved shoulder design also ensures better heat dissipation on the road, so the tread lasts longer while wearing evenly to avoid weak spots. We also appreciate the enhanced tread depth – which helps to reduce rolling resistance and avoid any troublesome heat build up from occurring in the first place.

These tires are great for long haul trips pulling heavy loads, but with constant use under this type of strain, some users found that they failed after a couple years. Considering the reasonable price, though, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an equally robust tire for less.

eCustomRim Trailer Tire On Rim

If you’re looking for highly-affordable, easy-install tires that come complete with rims, then this model is worth checking out. eCustomRim is a well-known name in the States, so you can have confidence in the quality of their products.

This tire has a 15-inch rim diameter, with a 5 Lug 4.5″ center and the 205/75D15 size is compatible with the majority of popular trailer brands – so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting it fitted.

Built for durability, this tire has a 6-ply construction – which puts it in the C category for load range. It has a maximum weight capacity of 1820 pounds per tire, which is suitable for most moderate loads.

If you’re heading out for long drives on the highway, the M speed rating of 81mph is plenty for the needs of RV’ers. It also has good resilience in poor weather conditions, so this tire should keep you stable in heavy rain or snowy roads. The 7.8/32″ tread depth offers good levels of grip and a decent lifespan with regular use.

Overall, these tires are an excellent pick for the price, especially as they come with rims included. They’re well made, fit most types of trailers and cope well in poor weather conditions. We also like that they come with a 5-year warranty, so you can rest-assured you’ll get a good lifespan out of them.

Wheels Express Travel Trailer Tires

Next up we have the Wheels Express Travel Trailer Bias Tire . This 14-inch model comes fully mounted on the rim and ready to fit – so it’s a great option if you’re looking for the full package.

Unlike radial tires, this bias tire has a much stiffer sidewall, which makes it an excellent choice if you’re planning on hitting the backroads where the surface can be a little bumpier. The higher level of rigidity also means this tire is good for stabilizing your trailer and reducing any potential sway that you may experience while towing.

If you often tow heavy applications, this tire is a great match. It has a load range rating of “C”, which means it is capable of supporting loads up to 1820 pounds per tire. It also has a 6 ply construction and is steel belted for better traction and reduced fuel consumption.

We particularly like how convenient this tire is to use. As it comes with a wheel and 4X5 5X4.5 lug pattern, you can go right ahead and install it as soon as you receive it. This saves a lot of time searching for compatible rims and fitting tires separately if you’re starting out with nothing. The price is very reasonable too.

On the downside, if you’re a heavy user pulling hefty loads, this tire may not last as long as other models. Some RV’ers have complained that the tread wore pretty low after a couple thousand miles – so you’ll have to decide if these tires’ qualities fit your intended usage.

Grand Ride Trailer Tires

Last but not least, we have the Grand Ride Trailer Tires . These trailer tires share many of the features we have seen in the other models on our list, but they come in a superb-value pack of four.

This radial tire provides fantastic grip and stability for your trailer to prevent swaying. It also has a max weight capacity of 2150 pounds at 65psi – making it a D-rated tire that’s suitable for heavier applications.

In addition to the reliable grip, this tire has a nylon overlay throughout the tread area, as well as the shoulder area, to protect it and reduce wear. The tire wall also has a special “scuff guard” to ward off damage from those occasional bumps against curbs and rocks.

We were a little disappointed to see that these tires only come with a one year warranty. However, Grand Ride says they have been selling these tires wholesale to trailer manufacturers all across the US, so that’s a good indication that they are of trusted quality.

If you’re looking to get a brand new set of four wheels, keep in mind that unlike the Wheels Express Tires, these don’t come with included rims, so you’ll have to buy them separately if required. That said, considering the price is for four tires, you’re still getting a great deal overall.

Compare the Best Travel Trailer Tires

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Travel Trailer Tires

If you’re unsure which travel trailer tires are the best for your needs, read through our in-depth buying guide below. We explain everything you need to consider before making your purchase.

The best travel trailer tires aren’t cheap, and nor should they be. High-quality tires are crucial to your safety, so this isn’t a time to look for the absolute cheapest option you can find.

The average cost for a good-quality travel trailer tire is around $170. Some tires will cost more, others less, but this is a good benchmark of what you can expect to pay.

Tires from highly-respected brands that have higher load limits and enhanced safety/longevity features can cost twice as much, at around $300. Lesser-known brands that still offer great-quality tires may go for less, at around $80-$130 – although you may find yourself having to replace them more often.

If you have the budget and are planning to do some serious mileage, we recommend opting for the best travel trailer tires you can afford. The biggest brands also tend to offer the most generous warranties, so you can be confident that your tires will last.

Load Range/Load Rating and Max Weight

Before purchasing a trailer tire, it’s critical to check that it has the correct load range/rating to handle your setup. This figure is easy to find on the sidewall of the tire, and will tell you the maximum load that the tire can manage.

The most common load ranges for trailer tires will be categorized under these letters – B, C, D and E. Each letter corresponds to a maximum load range a tire can handle at the recommendation inflation pressure, measured in pounds.

If you had a single axle trailer with C load range tires (max load 1820lbs), you can haul a maximum load of 3640 pounds (2×1820).

However, if you have a double-axle trailer, you must reduce the max load rating by 12% and work on that figure. This means the maximum you could haul with a double-axle trailer would be 3204 pounds.

Clearly, it’s very important to check these figures and be aware exactly how much weight you’re towing before choosing tires for your travel trailer. Making the wrong choice could have dangerous consequences.

The best size travel trailer tire will depend on your trailer. The original tires that came with your trailer will have a size code on their sidewall, which consists of a combination of letters and numbers.

For example, the code “ST205/75R15” tells you a number of things.

First of all, the letters “ST” stand for “special trailer tire”, so you know that this tire is for use with trailers only.

“205” refers to the width of the tread in millimeters, while the following numbers, “75” tell you the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the tread width.

Last of all, the letter “R” means “radial tire” and the number “15” means that it’s made to fit a 15-inch rim.

Not all tires have a code as long as this, though. Smaller tires, (sub 12-inch models) usually have a shorter code. The first number will indicate the width of the tread, while the second number tells you the rim size.

Once you’ve got the hand of deciphering this code, finding the right size tires for your travel trailer will be a walk in the park.

Intended Use and Cargo Weight

Another key consideration before buying new travel trailer tires is your intended use. If you’re only planning to be pulling your small trailer a couple times a year, you’re going to need very different tires from someone hauling a heavy application every weekend.

The same is true when it comes to the routes you usually take. If you usually hit the highways, it’s best to choose a radial tire, as a bias tire is highly unlikely to last under these conditions. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time in the backcountry on bumpy roads, then a bias tire is a better choice. (We’ll explain more about different types of trailer tires later).

Aside from this, you’ll also need to think about the amount of weight you’re going to be hauling. Don’t forget that this is the total weight of your trailer, including everything inside it, too. To be extra safe, it’s best to opt for a set of tires that with a load limit that comfortably exceeds the weight of your rig.

Durability, Longevity, and Sidewall Strength

It should go without saying, but when hauling a trailer, you’re going to want to get a set of tires that have a good level of durability, a decent lifespan, and have high sidewall strength.

You simply don’t want to risk hauling a trailer with low quality tires. This is not only very dangerous for you, but for everyone else on the road too. The best way to ensure you’re getting a high-quality tire is to opt for well-respected brands who have been in the game for a long time and earned their reputation.

Double steel belted tires with additional shoulder scuff guards and nylon overlays are great for strength and durability. Longevity really depends on your usage level, but it’s better to choose a tire with enhanced tread patterns that promote even wear and reduce the risk of isolated weak spots occurring.

Pressure Rating

Tire pressure rating is another top consideration that shouldn’t be overlooked. The stability and safety of your trailer when towing is reliant on your tires being inflated to the correct level of pressure.

If you over-inflate your tires, this will reduce the contact area and result in faster wearing in the center of your tires. If you underinflate them, they’ll wear out more quickly on the shoulders, reduce your fuel economy and are more likely to puncture. As you can see, there’s no good results here – the only way to get the best performance from your tires is to ensure you inflate them to the right level.

You can find out the correct psi level for your trailer load on the side of the tire. This will tell you the required pressure level for the tire to support the load they are rated to. If you don’t inflate the tire to the psi that’s recommended, you cannot be confident that the tire will be able to support the weight capacity as stated.

If you’re changing your load and are unsure what pressure you should inflate your tires to – you can always call the manufacturer or a local tire dealer for advice.

Speed Rating

The speed rating tells you the max speed that a tire can maintain safely over time.

Most travel trailer tires will have a speed rating that is well above the speed you are likely to, (or should be!) reaching when pulling your trailer.

Speed rating is also displayed in a lettering code. A common speed rating you’re likely to come across is “M” – which correlates to 81mph, but you should always double check before buying.

Types of Travel Trailer Tires

There are two main types of travel trailer tire: Radial and Bias. In this section, we take a look at each type alongside their advantages and drawbacks.

Radial Trailer Tires

Radial trailer tires are the most expensive type. They have steel belts inside them that are positioned at a 90-degree angle from the centerline of the tread. This enables radial tires to grip the road better, offers good stability, flexibility and reduces tread wear over time.

These features allow radial tires to remain at cooler temperatures than bias tires. For this reason, radial tires are the better choice if you tend to go on long-haul trips and spend a lot of time on the highway.

The steel belt inside radial tires also means they are less likely to develop flat spots when you leave your trailer parked up for long periods – so they are a great option if you’re planning to store your RV away for the season or pitch up somewhere for an extended time.

Bias Trailer Tires

Bias trailer tires are cheaper, but they are also constructed differently from radial tires.

Bias tires are made with piles that are made with multiple rubber belt plies that are laid at 30-degree angles, overlapping each other. The sidewall is less flexible than radial tires, and as a result, they perform better in off-road environments, so they can be a good choice if you’re mostly out in the backcountry.

The more rigid sidewall of bias tires means that they are also capable of handling a higher load capacity than radial tires, but on the downside, they don’t have a very long lifespan.

Many bias tires fail at around 12,000 miles, so this makes them a less attractive option for travel trailer owners who do a lot of mileage.

Top Travel Trailer Tires Video

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Trailer Tires

When it comes to travel trailer tires, there are numerous factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. From load capacity and size to tread pattern and durability, choosing the right tires for your travel trailer is essential. To help you navigate through the common queries and concerns surrounding travel trailer tires, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or a first-time traveler, this FAQ section aims to provide clarity and guidance on selecting the best travel trailer tires for your needs. Read on to find answers to your burning questions and gain valuable insights into maintaining and optimizing the performance of your travel trailer tires.

Why are travel trailer tires important?

Travel trailer tires play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience. They provide stability, traction, and control while towing your trailer, and they are designed to withstand the unique demands of RV travel.

What are the key factors to consider when choosing travel trailer tires?

When selecting the best travel trailer tires, it’s important to consider factors such as tire size, load capacity, speed rating, tread pattern, durability, and weather performance. It’s also essential to ensure that the tires are suitable for your specific trailer weight and towing requirements.

How often should I replace my travel trailer tires?

The lifespan of travel trailer tires varies depending on factors such as tire quality, usage, and maintenance. As a general guideline, it is recommended to replace travel trailer tires every five to six years, regardless of the tread depth, to prevent potential safety risks.

Can I use regular passenger vehicle tires on my travel trailer?

It is not recommended to use regular passenger vehicle tires on a travel trailer. Travel trailer tires are specifically designed to handle the unique load and towing demands of an RV. They have reinforced sidewalls, stronger construction, and higher load-carrying capacities, which differ from those of regular passenger tires.

What is the proper way to maintain travel trailer tires?

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of travel trailer tires. Regularly inspect the tires for signs of wear, maintain proper inflation pressure, rotate the tires as recommended by the manufacturer, and store the trailer in a cool, dry place when not in use. Additionally, keep an eye on the tread depth and consider getting your tires balanced and aligned for optimal performance.

Are there specific tire brands that are recommended for travel trailers?

There are several reputable tire brands known for producing quality travel trailer tires, such as Goodyear, Michelin, BF Goodrich, Carlisle, and Maxxis, among others. However, the best tire brand for your travel trailer may depend on your specific needs, budget, and the type of RV you own.

How can I determine the appropriate tire size for my travel trailer?

To determine the correct tire size for your travel trailer, you can refer to the information provided by the trailer manufacturer, consult the owner’s manual, or check the existing tires on your RV. The tire size is typically indicated by a series of numbers and letters on the sidewall, such as “ST225/75R15,” where “ST” indicates a special trailer tire.

Can I replace just one tire, or should I replace all of them at the same time?

Ideally, it is recommended to replace all travel trailer tires at the same time. This helps maintain even tread wear, ensures balanced performance, and minimizes the risk of tire failure. However, if only one tire needs replacement due to damage or wear, it is essential to choose a tire with the same specifications as the existing ones to maintain proper load capacity and compatibility.

Are there any specific considerations for travel trailer tires in different weather conditions?

Travel trailer tires should be suitable for the weather conditions you expect to encounter during your travels. In colder climates, consider tires with a winter or all-season rating, as they provide better traction on icy or snowy roads. In hotter climates, choose tires that can handle high temperatures without compromising performance or durability.

Can I install the tires on my travel trailer myself, or should I have them professionally installed?

While it is possible to install travel trailer tires yourself, it is recommended to have them professionally installed to ensure proper mounting, balancing, and alignment. Professional tire installation can also help identify any underlying issues and provide expert advice on tire maintenance and care.

Remember, selecting the right travel trailer tires is essential for your safety and the overall performance of your RV. Consult with tire experts, read reviews, and consider your specific needs before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best travel trailer tire for your needs is not only crucial for the safety of yourself and other road users, it can also improve trailer stability and save you money in the long term.

The right option for you is dependent on your trailer, but if you haul a heavy load, then the Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire could be your best bet. This model is made from heavy-duty rubber that’s highly durable and has an impressive load range of 3,750 pounds per tire. The tread is specially designed to wear down evenly to prevent weak spots from occurring, and the shoulders are rounded to provide stability.

For more mid-range loads, then either the Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire or the Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire are worth a look. These models have load ratings of 2,830 pounds and 2,833 pounds respectively, offer great durability and an advanced tread design for optimum performance.

Alternatively, if you pull lighter loads, then the Goodyear Endurance Radial Tire could be right for you. This tire can handle 1,700 pounds, has a rugged fabric-steel design which is great for long distance trips, and has scuff guards to protect against accidental damage.

About The Author

Karan Riley

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Trailer Tires Speed Rating: A Complete Guide

Trailer tire speed ratings provide critical information for drivers looking to tow safely and efficiently. These ratings use a letter code system,that indicates the maximum speed at which a tire can maintain optimum performance over time without risking damage or reduced functionality.

Consequently, understanding your trailer tires’ speed rating is crucial in avoiding unnecessary strain on your tires and ensuring their longevity.

Neglecting to monitor the tire speed ratings on your trailer can result in dangerous situations and potential damage to both the trailer and the tow vehicle.

Where Can I Find My Tire Speed Rating?

To find your tire’s speed rating, you need to look on the sidewall of your tires, where you’ll see a combination of letters and numbers following the size specifications.

The first letter is typically the type of tire where “P” stands for passenger vehicle, “LT” for light truck, and “ST” for special trailer .

The next numbers indicate the width of the tire in millimeters and its aspect ratio (height to width). For example, 205/75R14 means that the tire is 205 millimeters wide with a height equal to 75% of its width and fits on a 14-inch wheel.

The final numbers and letters refer to the load index and the speed rating of the tire.

For example, if a sidewall marking reads “96M”, this indicates that the speed rating of the tire is “M” at which the tire can safely operate up to 81 mph.

Tire Speed Rating Chart

To better understand the various tire speed ratings, we have compiled a comprehensive chart displaying the different tire speed ratings and their corresponding maximum speeds as per the United States tire speed rating system.

Risks Of Speeding With Trailer Tires

Exceeding the maximum speed rating of your trailer tires can lead to several issues. Firstly, it puts immense stress on the tires which can cause them to overheat and ultimately fail.

This failure can manifest itself in various ways such as a blown-out tire or severe tearing around the edges. Secondly, driving at higher speeds than recommended can also make your vehicle more unstable and prone to swaying or wobbling, especially when carrying heavy loads.

This issue is especially dangerous when carrying heavy loads or driving on hot summer days when pavement temperature is at a higher level.

Why Are Trailer Tires Speed Ratings Lower Than Other Tires?

Trailer tires are rated lower than passenger car tires because the load capacity of trailer tires is much higher than that of regular car or truck tires, and running them at higher speeds can cause them to overheat and fail.

Are There Trailer Tires Rated Higher Than 55 MPH?

Yes, some Special Trailer (ST) tires can have a speed rating of 80+ mph. These higher-speed trailer tires are designed to handle the immense stress of highway speeds while carrying heavy loads.

Can I Mix Tires With Different Speed Ratings?

Mixing tires with different ratings on a trailer is possible but not recommended as it can negatively affect the ride and handling of your trailer as each tire will behave differently at different speeds.

Choosing The Best Trailer Tires For Your Needs

When selecting trailer tires, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and safety. These include:

Recommended Models

When it comes to choosing the best trailer tires for your needs, here are some recommended brands and models to consider:

What Is Load Index Rating On Trailer Tires?

Load index rating is a numerical value assigned to trailer tires, which indicates the maximum load-carrying capacity of the tire when properly inflated. This rating helps in comparing different tires to identify their load capacity.

The load index rating is usually found on the sidewall of a tire and represented by a number ranging from 1-150. For instance, if a trailer has a total weight of 10,000 pounds and four tires with a load index rating of 250 each are used, then each tire can safely carry up to 2,500 pounds.

Effects Of Overloading On Trailer Handling And Stability

Overloading a trailer can have negative impacts on its handling and stability, compromising the safety of the trip. When a trailer is overloaded, it has an increased risk of swaying or tipping over during turns or sudden stops.

The weight distribution on trailers is crucial for maintaining stability while towing. When too much weight is placed at the front or rear of the trailer, it can cause issues with braking and steering. Additionally, overloading a trailer can lead to uneven tire wear .

Is It Dangerous To Tow A Trailer Faster Than 55 MPH?

Some states such as California have even set this as their maximum speed limit for vehicles towing trailers.

Overloading your trailer or driving too fast puts immense stress on your tires leading them to overheat which could lead to disastrous consequences like tire blowouts.

Exceeding the recommended speed rating on your tires affects fuel economy, wear and tear on the tread, handling capabilities and stopping distance in case of emergencies.

What Is Speed Rating J On A Trailer Tires?

The speed rating of a J trailer tire indicates that it has a maximum speed capability of 62 mph. This is considered to be one of the lower speed ratings for trailer tires and limits the trailer’s ability to travel at higher speeds without risking damage or failure.

What Is Speed Rating L On Trailer Tires?

The speed rating L indicaties a maximum safe speed of 75 mph. This rating is typically found on bias-ply trailer tires, which are known for their strength and durability under heavy loads.

What Is Speed Rating M On Trailer Tires?

One of the higher-rated options in trailer tire speed ratings is the M rating. The M speed rating tires should not exceed 81 mph.

André is a car enthusiast and a self-proclaimed tire nerd.

When he's not tinkering with his own cars or obsessively researching tire brands, André can often be found cracking jokes with his team and sharing amusing memes on their Slack channel.

His colleagues describe him as a combination of a car guru and a stand-up comedian, with a talent for making even the most mundane tire specs seem interesting.

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Best RV 5th-Wheel & Travel Trailer Tires Review/Buying Guide

How Do I Know What Tire Is Right For My Travel Trailer Or 5th-Wheel?

When it comes to getting new tires for your trailer, the choices can seem endless.

There are many debates on whether specialty tires (ST) are the best for a trailer or if light truck tires (LT) are better.

You can read lots of different opinions, but no matter what, there are a few things that hold true with trailer tires.

Related Product: Use a wireless Tire Pressure Monitoring System (click to view on Amazon) to monitor the pressure in your trailer’s tires and be warned of flats. 

First, it’s usually better to go with the tire that’s made for trailers.

LT tires are built with thinner sidewalls than trailer (ST) tires and aren’t as good for holding a vertical load.

There are only a few specific applications where LT tires are acceptable to use with a trailer, but they’re not usually a better option.

Second, there are two kinds of ST tires, radial, and bias.

Bias tires are made with belts that stretch across the tire at 30-45° angles to create a stiff yet durable tire.

They are excellent for farm and construction applications and a great choice for utility trailers.

Radial tires have a belt that stretches across the tire at a 90° angle and are much better for highway trailers like RVs and ATV trailers.

They last longer, create less heat (less likely to have blowouts), and ride smoother.

Because this review is about the best travel trailer and 5th-wheel tires, I’m only going to be reviewing radial trailer tires.

They are the best option for most RVs and trailers.

Side note: never mix bias trailer tires with radial ones. All the tires on your travel trailer or 5th-wheel need to be the same.

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Finally, size and load ratings are everything.

You need to get the right size of tire to not only fit the rims, but also to match the axles and max trailer weight rating.

Your trailer can only take as much as the axle can, so remember, getting tires that can take more weight won’t increase your trailer’s load capacity.

You can read more about finding out where the information on your trailer’s load capacity and the size of tires you will need at the end of this review.

You will also find information on what the different ply and C, D, and E ratings mean.

See Also: RV Truck & Trailer Towing Capacity – How Much Can I Tow?

Summary (Links to Amazon)

• Goodyear Endurance All Season Radial Trailer Tire
• Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire
• Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

Table of Contents show How Do I Know What Tire Is Right For My Travel Trailer Or 5th-Wheel? Best Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires Reviews & Info 1. Goodyear Endurance All Season Radial Trailer Tire 2. Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire 3. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire Final Thoughts On Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires ST vs LT Tires (trailer tires vs light truck tires) What Causes A Trailer Tire To “Blowout”? What Do The Numbers On Trailer Tires Mean? What Does The C, D, and E Load Rating And Ply Rating Mean On A Trailer Tire? Is It Ok To Get Tires With A Bigger Load Range Than What’s Recommended For My Trailer? How Do I Calculate The Right Trailer Tire Load/Weight Rating For My Trailer? When Should I Replace My Trailer Tires? Can You Put Car Tires On A Trailer? Should I Inflate My Trailer Tires To The Max PSI? Do Trailer Tires Need To Be Balanced? Why Do Trailer Tires Wear Out So Fast?

Best Trailer Tire

Last update on 2024-04-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires Reviews & Info

1. goodyear endurance all season radial trailer tire.

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Goodyear makes some of the best tires you can get. Their trailer tires are highly recommended and trusted by RVers.

The sidewalls use durawall technology, which makes them resistant to punctures, cuts, and scuffs.

They are radial tires, which means they don’t build up as much heat on the road.

There’s less chance of a blowout compared to bias tires.

The polyester material and steel belts are durable, and great for towing heavy loads.

The speed rating for these trailer tires is 87 mph, which is plenty fast for a travel trailer or 5th-wheel.

It’s not recommended to go over 65 mph when towing, but if you want the option to go faster, Goodyear Endurance has you covered.

Whether you are towing a single axle travel trailer or a large triple axle 5th-wheel, there are lots of different Goodyear Endurance trailer tires sizes.

You can get smaller ST205/75R15 107N (click to view on Amazon) that are rated for 1,700 lbs.

This size of trailer tire is most likely to be found on smaller travel trailers.

They also have a few versions of larger ST235/80R16 123N (click to view on Amazon) which are rated for up to 3,638 lbs.

This size is common on large 5th-wheels and toy haulers.

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The standard ST225/75R15 117N linked to above is rated for 2,833 lbs.

That size is perfect for large travel trailers with a total GVWR of around 9,000 lbs.

Be sure to check the recommended tire size on the information sticker on your trailer or RV before purchasing new RV tires.

And always go by the GVWR weight and not just the ply or load rating as it is different depending on the brand of trailer tire.

The Goodyear Endurance All Season Radial Trailer Tires are one of the best option for every kind of camper, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RVer.

They will keep you safe on the road and last much longer than other brands of tires.

I recommend Goodyear tires, and they are my top choice for the best trailer tire overall.

• Excellent Brand
• High Quality
• Durawall Technology
• Run Cool (Less Blowout Chance)
• Many Size & Ply Options
• Made In the USA
• Least Affordable Option

2. Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire

I talk a lot about how fantastic Goodyear trailer tires are, but Maxxis runs at a close second.

They are another top trailer tire choice for lots of RVers.

The Maxxis M8008 is a radial trailer tire made with steel belts, with full nylon caps in the larger tire sizes for increased durability and strength.

They are known for their shock absorption capabilities, and smooth towing for any size of trailer.

The tread pattern decreases roll resistance and can even increase gas mileage on long camping trips.

The speed rating on most Maxxis M8008 trailer tires is 65 mph.

The tires are technically built to withstand much higher speeds, but Maxxis keeps their trailer tires rated for 65 mph because of an agreement with the Tire & Rim Association .

The standard ST225/75R15 is 8 ply and rated for 2,540 lbs.

If you have a larger travel trailer that weighs around 9,000 lbs, consider getting the 10 ply version (click to view on Amazon) which is rated for 2,830 lbs at 80 psi.

Just make sure your rims are compatible with that high of air pressure.

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There is also the smaller version available like the ST205/75R15 BSW (click to view on Amazon) which is 6 ply and rated for 1,820 lbs.

And the larger ST235/80R16 BSW (click to view on Amazon) that is 10 ply and rated for up to 3,420 lbs.

It’s a common size for 5th-wheels that are around 12,000 lbs.

The Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire is another fantastic choice for any kind of camper.

Whether you are about to head out on a long camping trip, or just take your trailer out every weekend, you can never be too careful about the quality of trailer tire you get.

Maxxis is a great contender to the Goodyear Endurance and if the load ratings and specs match your trailer better, it’s a great choice.

• Double Steel Belt Construction
• Advanced Tread Pattern For Better Rolling
• Fantastic Shock Absorption
• Lighter Load Rating Than Other Brands
• Made In Thailand

3. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

Carlisle tires are made by the Carlstar Group, which is one of the top producers of specialty tires, like camper trailer tires.

They’ve been making tires for years and their Trail HD tire is another favorite among full-time RVers and weekenders.

The Trail HD tire is a radial trailer tire made for distance and durability.

The tread keeps the tire running cool to reduce the risk of blowouts and is compatible with a wide range of trailers, including RVs, horse trailers, toy haulers, and boat trailers.

The new HD version is made to be a direct replacement for their older Trail RH models.

If you’re a long time Carlisle tire fan, you won’t be disappointed by the Trail HD’s.

The ST 225/75R15 117 M linked to in the picture above is a 10 ply trailer tire rated for 2,830 lbs at 80 PSI.

If you have a smaller trailer, you can get the ST205/75R15 107M (click to view on Amazon) which is an 8 ply that has a load capacity of 2,150 at 65 PSI.

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They also have a high speed rating of 81 mph on the smaller versions and 87 on larger ones.

If you want peace of mind knowing that your trailer tires can take going much faster than 65 mph if ever needed.

Side note: most travel trailers and 5th-wheels are not rated to go faster than 65 mph.

This is a structural rating and getting faster tires doesn’t change the standard 65 mph recommendation.

If you have a larger 5th-wheel or toy hauler, there is also the ST235/80R16 124L (click to view on Amazon) which is a 10 ply with a load rating of E and 3,520 lbs.

Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tires are another trusted trailer tire that will keep you and your RV safe on the road.

This brand has been around for a long time and a lot of RVers swear by them.

If the weight ratings and sizes fit your trailer, they are a fantastic choice.

• Advanced Tread Pattern For Cooler Running & Even Wear
• High Speed Rating
• Made In China

Final Thoughts On Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires

You may have noticed that I only recommend 3 brands of camper trailer tires.

When I review and recommend products, I do extensive research and use my knowledge and experience as a full-time RVer to give the best information I can.

When it comes to trailer tires, you should never sacrifice quality. It could be a fatal mistake in the wrong circumstances.

There are tons of trailer tires out there. While some weekend RVers may have no problem with other brands, I can only recommend what I think are the safest and best trailer tires on the market today.

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That being said, accidents happen, and there is no tire that is immune to blowouts and flats.

Goodyear, Maxxis, and Carlisle are three amazing tire companies that produce excellent trailer tires that have been tried and tested by many RVers.

If you use quality trailer tires like these, keep them fully inflated, and never drive faster than the recommended 65 mph speed, there will be a smaller chance of blowouts.

This will keep you and others safer on the road as you travel to your next grand adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Trailer & 5th-Wheel Tires

St vs lt tires (trailer tires vs light truck tires).

You may have had a dealer or RVer suggest using LT tires on your travel trailer or 5th-wheel.

Some feel that LT tires can be the better option for certain kinds of trailers and they like the look of having the same tires on their trailer as their truck.

After much research and asking questions, the general consensus seems to be that specialty tires (ST) for trailers are the best option in the long run.

They are made with stronger sidewalls and can take more vertical weight than LT tires and you won’t risk losing your trailer’s warranty.

What Causes A Trailer Tire To “Blowout”?

Heat is the number one cause of trailer tire blowouts.

A low tire builds up heat as it rolls down the road. That’s why flat tires can blow out really fast.

It’s the main reason you should always get trailer tires that are rated for the weight of your trailer and keep them inflated to the maximum or recommended PSI.

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What Do The Numbers On Trailer Tires Mean?

If your trailer has the right tires, the first letters you see should be ST, which means specialty tires.

In certain cases, the previous owner or dealer may have put LT (light truck) tires on your trailer.

The debate on whether LT tires are ok for a travel trailer or 5th-wheels is still ongoing, but for now, the general consensus is that ST tires are still the best for trailers.

The numbers that come after ST indicate the width of the tire in millimeters. Common numbers for trailers are 205, 225, and 235.

Make sure you always get the number that is listed on the information sticker which is located somewhere on your RV. (Check the door or near the front storage area)

The next number is the aspect ratio (ratio of height to width) on trailers. It will usually be 75 and sometimes 80 depending on the rim size.

The next letter “R” stands for radial.

If your travel trailer has a D instead of an R, that means they are Diagonal or Bias tires and you may want to change them out for radial tires as they are longer lasting and offer smoother towing for RV trailers.

The last number will be rim diameter.

Many travel trailers have standard 15″ rims but you will sometimes see 14 and even 16 inch ones.

Make sure you check the tires on your trailer as well, because people will sometimes get new rims.

The information sticker that tells you what tires your trailer is compatible with the tire code will sometimes end with a C, D, or E.

This shows the recommended tire load rating you should buy for your trailer.

Not all tires are made equal. Make sure you also check the GVWR of your trailer and the load rating of each tire to make sure the tires you get can take the max weight of your trailer when combined.

What Does The C, D, and E Load Rating And Ply Rating Mean On A Trailer Tire?

Load Range and Ply Ratings normally work together to mean the same kinds of things. I’ll illustrate it in the table below.

There’s no exact weight rating for each load range and every manufacturer is going to have their specific load rating a little different, so make sure you get those numbers before you purchase.

Is It Ok To Get Tires With A Bigger Load Range Than What’s Recommended For My Trailer?

Yes, it’s technically ok to get tires with a higher load range for your camper trailer, but it’s not always necessary.

Some people believe if you get a bigger tire that it will be more durable.

Sometimes this is true, but if you buy the right size of quality tires and keep them fully inflated, you shouldn’t have blowouts.

See Also: Tymate TPMS Review For RVs & Trailers 6 Sensor M12-3 Model

Remember that a trailer can only carry as much as what the axle is rated for and getting tires with a higher weight capacity will not change the GVWR of your trailer.

Getting tires that are too strong may cause a rougher ride for your trailer.

How Do I Calculate The Right Trailer Tire Load/Weight Rating For My Trailer?

Load range and ply ratings are great to use as a reference, but what it all comes down to is getting tires that can take at least the max weight of your trailer.

Many people say you should get tires that are rated for at least 20% more than what your trailer can weigh in total.

To find out what the total weight of your trailer can be or the GVWR, check the information sticker usually located inside the door or sometimes on the outside near the front.

I’ll use my travel trailer as an example. The GVWR is 9,000 lbs. If I take that number and divide it by 4, it means that I need trailer tires rated for at least 2,250 lbs.

Maxing out the tire weight rating isn’t a good idea.

If I use the rule to always get tires rated for 20% over my trailer’s GVWR, then I’m going to need tires that can take at least 2,700 lbs. (9,000 x 0.2 = 1,800 I 1,800+9,000=10,800 I 10,800/4=2,700)

When Should I Replace My Trailer Tires?

Trailer tires will last anywhere from 3 to 6 years, depending on how often you camp.

If you’re a full-time RVer, you may end up having to replace your tires even more often than that.

The minimum legal tread depth in the United States is 2/32 inches in every major groove.

Getting your trailer tires down this low is putting you and your RV at risk.

Consider changing them before the tread gets this bad, especially before a long trip.

One quick way to check the tread on your trailer tires is to do the penny test.

Take a penny and put it between your trailer tire treads with Lincoln’s head pointing down.

If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire’s tread is at or below 2/32 inches and you should replace your trailer tires immediately.

Even if the tread looks ok if it has been over 6 years, you should replace the trailer tires anyway.

Tires can get dry and crack over time, even if they’re stored right.

Blowouts happen easier with old tires and they can be very dangerous for not only you and your trailer but also other people on the road.

See Also: How To Install Solar Panel On RV Roof & Connect To Battery

Can You Put Car Tires On A Trailer?

No, car tires are referred to as passenger tires and they aren’t made to take as much weight as a trailer tire.

Some people will put light truck tires on lighter travel trailers, but even doing that isn’t recommended by most tire or RV manufacturers.

The safest way to go is with tires that are made for the vehicle or trailer you have.

Always make sure the weight rating of the tires is enough for the total weight your trailer or RV is rated for.

Should I Inflate My Trailer Tires To The Max PSI?

Yes, in order for a trailer tire to have the load rating it was made for, it must be inflated to the max PSI.

That’s why it’s important to get a trailer tire that is not too small or too large for your trailer.

If you get a trailer tire that has too high of a max PSI, it will beat up your trailer at making towing more difficult.

Also, if you don’t inflate the trailer tire to the right PSI, the extra surface area of the tire will build up excessive heat at possibly cause a blowout.

Do Trailer Tires Need To Be Balanced?

Yes, and no.

Trailer tires do not need to be balanced like a car does, but you need to have a balanced load in your trailer to reduce sway and excessive wear on one side of the trailer.

Why Do Trailer Tires Wear Out So Fast?

Trailer tires have to put up with a lot, whether it’s from rocks on the road or uneven weight distribution.

It’s also a common misconception that trailer tires don’t need to be inflated to the max psi.

When not inflated to the max psi, trailer tires wear out faster and don’t have the full load capacity they were rated for.

The backing is also another reason trailer tires wear out so fast, especially 5th-wheel tires, because 5th-wheels can back at much sharper angles than travel trailers.

One tire is always going to be taking more of a beating than the other three, which is why you should get your trailer tires rotated just like you do on a vehicle.

Have any more questions about trailer tires? Leave a comment below.

8 thoughts on “Best RV 5th-Wheel & Travel Trailer Tires Review/Buying Guide”

whathappened to firestone tires . how do they rate and where are they made. i realy du not want a tire made out side of USA…..

It can be hard to find Firestone trailer tires online, you may need to go to a dealer. From what I’ve heard they are decent tires and mostly still made in the USA.

If you want USA made trailer tires the Goodyear Endurance All-Season Radial Trailer Tire (click to view on Amazon) is made in the USA and one of the best trailer tires out there.

How come Cooper “work series ” tires are now being put on Grand Design 5th wheels instead of Goodyear?

What do you think about the Freedom hauler duty max tires? I need a G rated tire

Or Sailun ?

I’ve started to see more and more Freedom Hauler tires on the road, their reputation seems pretty good but they are still considered to be one a budget tire and the quality still won’t be what you find with brands like Goodyear or Maxxis.

If you are a long haul camper I still recommend sticking with the better brands but if you only make a few short camping trips a year the Freedom Haulers should work fine.

I live in michigan I filled my tires to max psi 80 psi in the cold temps outside. I traveled to Florida where the temps are warmer and my psi was around 86 cold. Is this normal or should I bring down the psa?

I’d bring down the PSI so it matches the climate you’re in.

I’ve heard Endurance tires lately (in the last year) or so are no so good – possibly defective or having a blowout shortly after buying.

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The 8 Best Travel Trailer Tires on the Market in 2023

Published Date: April 5, 2023

Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Camper Front

Having the right travel trailer tires is integral to making journeys across the state or even the country. These tires are bigger and stronger than the average automobile tires that you find at the local shop.

What makes trailer tires unique? They have a higher ply rating, are crafted with robust sidewalls, and feature exceptional tread designs.

The best trailer tires are created to last, no matter where you go and how much driving you do. They’re created to offer great driving on any kind of road no matter what the weather is like.

Unlike typical radial tires, trailer tires don’t transmit and steer power from the engine of the vehicle. They also do not swerve. These tires are available in many specifications and sizes.

You’ll want to check out the manual for your trailer before moving forward with new trailer tires.

Without the right tires on your fifth wheel, travel trailer , or motorhome, you won’t make it far. The stresses and weight of an RV impact the tires more than in a car or truck. This leads to dangerous accidents in the case of a blowout.

Rather than risking serious issues, this guide will help you choose the top travel trailer tires for your RV.

We’ll talk about choosing the right type and size of tires, and share some of the best radial tires to keep your travel trailer safe on the road no matter where you go.

Whether you own a Class A motorhome, a pop-up camper , or a teardrop model, you want to have the best trailer tires. We’ll make sure you know how to select them.

Table of Contents

The 8 Best Trailer Tires Available Today

For our list of tire rankings, we’ve chosen only tires with consistently great rankings on performance. Depending on the RV tire, it might be better for a fifth wheel or a travel trailer . Make sure to double-check the specifics when making a choice.

GOODYEAR G670 RV

• High quality and performance.
• Versatile load capacity.
• Stability and safety.
• Higher cost.
• Inspection required.
• Limited availability.

We place these Goodyear tires at the top of our list – and for a good reason. The G750 is a special trailer tire designed for use with large or medium Class A and Class C motorhomes. These tires have a load capacity of 4,540 lbs. and are known for their great stability and impressive load ratings.

As one of the best trailer tires available, these provide extra protection against harsh weather and grimy roads. They are known for having an exceptional grip on wet roads and are considered a top trailer tire for safe travel with friends and family members.

This trailer tire is very durable with excellent traction. It includes an advanced tread design for better tracking and wear. The tires are also great for use at high speeds.

However, these tires can be more expensive than others on our list. You will also want to inspect the data before purchasing at tire dealers. This ensures you don’t get old stock.

Trailer King RST Tire

• Versatile load range.
• Heat reduction design.
• Longevity and water deflection.
• Sidewall bulge issues.
• Quicker wear under heavy loads.
• Noisy ride.

These radial tires from Trailer King have a load range from 2,540 to 3,520, making them suitable for many situations. They are best used for light travel trailers and come with an interesting shoulder design to reduce heat. This makes it a radial tire that works well on highways at high speeds.

The overlay of the radial trailer tires is made of nylon to offer longevity and strength. The tread has a deep center groove to assist with water deflection and tracking.

In addition, this tire manufacturer has a nationwide limited warranty. This makes it a radial trailer tire that works well for drivers who like to take off on long road trips.

Some of the largest benefits of choosing this radial trailer tire include a long lifespan, national warranty coverage, and a stable ride.

However, some report issues with sidewall bulges. In addition, the tires may wear down more quickly when a heavy load is present.

Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor Radial Tire

• Rugged durability.
• Aggressive tread pattern and Kevlar ply.
• Long-lasting mileage.
• Limited size availability.
• Performance on packed snow.

Are you looking for an off-grid RV tire for camping and more? You should take a look at the Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor. It’s a bit more expensive than some RV tires but worth the money when you want seriously rugged tires for up to 50,000 miles of use.

That isn’t the only reason to check out these trailer tires. They also have an aggressive tread pattern and a Kevlar ply. These combine to ensure you make it through mud and rocks when off the road to reach your favorite outdoor destinations.

When you purchase this durable tire, you can expect a deep tread pattern for great traction off the road. They also promise stable highway tracking and a quiet and smooth ride. The Kevlar layer provides excellent tread wear and the shape offers rim protection.

On the other hand, these tires are available only in a few sizes. They also tend to do worse on packed snow than on soft snow.

Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

• Wide load range.
• Cool tread design for heat reduction.
• Puncture resistance and smooth performance.
• Tire age concerns.
• Limited information on other features.
• Lack of pricing comparison.

Next up on our list of best tires is the Carlisle Radial Trail HD . They offer a load range of 1,120 to 3,960 and are a favorite of many individuals and families who go on RV trips across the state or even further.

The tread design on these tires ensures they stay cool even when driving for several hours. This cuts down on potential heat damage which can lead to a tire blowout.

Beyond that, these tires are resistant to punctures. They have a shape that easily flows over the road in a smooth way without much friction. This can help with fuel economy.

The best features of these trailer tires are the even wear, tracking, and performance. They run quietly and provide great traction even on wet roads. They also tend to be more affordable than other trailer tires.

The main thing to watch out for is the age of the tire. Some tire dealers will say they’re installing new tires only for the customer to find out that they’re a year old or more.

Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire

• High load capacity and designed for travel trailers and fifth wheels.
• Stable ribs and shallow tread pattern for toughness and heat dissipation on highways.
• Unique rubber compounds, edge sipes, and lateral grooves for excellent handling and safety in various weather conditions.
• Higher cost compared to other trailer tires.
• Limited sizes available and require a pressure tire valve and high-load wheel.
• Higher PSI requirement for optimal performance.

The Unisteel G614 RST has a load capacity of 3,900 and is qualified as light truck tires. It’s a great tire for any size of a travel trailer or fifth wheel, as they were made specifically for that purpose.

These trailer tires have very stable ribs and sport a shallow tread pattern to be tough but capable of shedding heat to avoid damage while traveling on highways.

Other features that make these a contender for best trailer tires include unique rubber compounds, edge sipes, and lateral grooves. These work together to create great handling so you feel safe moving your trailer, no matter the weather outside.

The features that make this trailer tire stand out are the ability to run at high speeds, the exceptional tread design for tracking and wear, and the amazing traction and durability available.

However, these trailer tires can be quite expensive. They also come in limited sizes and require a pressure tire valve and a high-load wheel. They also need a higher PSI than many tires to get optimal performance.

GOODYEAR Endurance All-Season Radial Tire

• Suitable for all sizes of fifth wheels and travel trailers.
• Durawall technology provides extra protection against wear, scuffs, and punctures.
• Deeper tread design with a decoupling groove for longer tread life and reduced heat at high speeds.
• Noisier than average.
• Less-than-perfect traction on snowy surfaces.
• No mention of wet traction or specific features for inclement weather conditions.

The Endurance All-Season has a design that works well for fifth wheels and travel trailers of any and all sizes. They feature Durawall technology which gives you extra protection from wear, scuffs, and punctures.

The tread design on this trailer tire is deeper and includes a decoupling groove for longer tread life. It helps reduce heat on the tires when traveling at high speeds. The tires have a speed rating of 80 MPH. They are also fully compatible with tire pressure monitoring systems .

When considering these tires, they have a lot of perks for those towing trailers. For instance, they have great stability and highway tracking. They have an optimized tread for braking abilities and are durable with a tread that stays cool at speed.

However, these tires have been known to be noisier than average and can have less-than-perfect traction on snowy surfaces.

Bridgestone Duravis M700 HD RV Tires

• Wide load range suitable for RVs.
• Excellent performance in all terrain and weather conditions.
• Deep and thick treads provide superior water displacement and traction, ensuring stability on various surfaces.
• Not ideal for snowy conditions.
• Limited customer complaints.
• No specific mention of wet traction or other inclement weather performance features.

The Bridgestone Duravis trailer tires have a load range from 2,680 to 3,415. They are one of the best tires for RV lovers who want to spend time at both modern RV parks and at more rustic outdoor locations.

These tires are known for handling all terrain and weather conditions extremely well.

The deep and thick treads offer great water displacement and traction. This ensures your wheels remain firmly against the ground at all times.

These truck tires are created using durable rubber, spiral-wound nylon, and twin steel belts. This helps them stand strong even under rough use to make them last longer than typical car tires.

The main perk of this trailer tire comes down to its great highway and off-road performance. It’s a very versatile tire. It has great highway tracking and traction and offers even tread wear.

There are not many complaints from customers who purchase these RV tires. The main thing to know is that the tires may not do well in snow.

One of the things that set the Maxxis M8008 ST Radial tires apart is their load range. It spans from 1,760 to 4,122, which is a huge number that accommodates all sorts of trailers and fifth wheels.

The tires include steel belts with full nylon caps for extra longevity and strength. Because of that, they work well for fifth-wheel and travel trailer applications.

The tread design of this tire is made to cut down on friction. This helps to increase gas mileage when you’re out there taking a long journey with your travel trailer.

These RV trailer tires stay straight and smooth when towing due to the shock they absorb. It can make it feel as if you’re hauling nothing at all. The dual-cord body casing means it can handle large loads, while the tread pattern keeps water away for no risk of hydroplaning.

Three things really stand out with these trailer tires. First is the high-quality double steel belt construction. Second is the impressive shock absorption. Last is the distinct tread pattern that keeps the trailer moving even and smoothly.

The main thing to watch for with this tire is the load rating as it doesn’t go as high as some trailer tires do.

Choosing the Absolute Best Trailer Tires

It’s possible to throw any old pair of tires on an RV and get through a trip (or even a few). However, car tires and similar items are going to give up much quicker than tires made for trailers. Depending on the load, it can be dangerous to drive on tires not made with RV weight ratings.

Nobody wants to deal with a disastrous accident like a tire blowout. It can put you and all of your passengers in danger, not to mention creating major damage to your trailer. This makes it essential to know how to choose the right trailer tires and how often to switch them out.

What Are ST, LT, and P Tires?

One of the first things to look at when choosing RV tiers is the rating. You need to be sure it’s appropriate before you think about the brand, type, and size of the tires you use for your trailer.

ST tires are special trailer tires. They are made to be used by recreational vehicles and travel and cargo trailers. ST tires meet certain safety guidelines set by manufacturers. In addition, ST tires are made to handle a heavy load as well as the stresses associated with campsite parking conditions and RV travel.

If you own a Class A, Class B, or Class C motorhome, you need ST tires. However, even those with lightweight pop-up campers and travel trailers should consider using these tires. They will provide the best wear and performance possible.

LT tires are for light trucks. These tires are designed to be used for smaller pickup trucks and SUVs. The LT tires are typically not designed to be used for trailers and motorhomes. It’s best to choose a higher class rather than installing LT tires.

P tires are made for passenger vehicles, which means they are used for traditional cars. They are created for use with cars like sedans and similar vehicles.

You should never use car tires on trailers. They cannot support the weight and it could lead to disaster. Always choose tires made for RVs and be sure they can handle the weight of your trailer (along with any belongings you pack inside).

Why Choose ST Tires for Trailers?

ST tires are made differently from LT and P tires. They have a number of benefits, such as the ones below:

• Stiffer and thicker sidewalls help reduce punctures and sidewall flexing.
• Steel cords of a larger diameter support more stress and larger loads.
• The tread and shape of the tires let trailers track better and can reduce sway.
• A better load range keeps inflation levels accurate for RV weight.

ST tires are stronger than others but they are not made to be used with standard vehicles. Most have a lifespan that ranges from 5,000 to 12,000 miles.

In addition, many of these trailer tires are not made for use at speeds over 65 MPH. If you often drive faster with your trailer, you’ll wear out the tires and create more heat than is safe.

Knowing all this about quality tires, you need to replace them every two years if you travel thousands of miles each year. If you are on the road less, they may last from three to five years.

In addition, it’s important to do routine maintenance on your trailer tires before you head out on a trip. You want to be aware of any wear early so you can replace the trailer tires as needed.

Tire Load Capacity Knowledge

Even when you break things down and choose only ST trailer tires, there are still a variety of choices. Your owner’s manual will give you information about what kind of tires to choose. However, the basic rule is that the load capacity should be 20% more than the gross vehicle weight of your trailer.

Why an extra 20%? There are two different reasons to add this to your calculations.

First, many people add huge amounts of items to their trailers before going on a trip. Having a strong tire makes it less likely that a failure will occur from this extra pressure. Excess weight and improper air can create extreme friction that causes a trailer tire to burst.

In addition, even if you have a reasonable weight between the trailer and supplies, less stress and wear are put on the trailer tires when they are stronger. This leads them to last longer. While robust tires might cost more, it’s worth it when they last longer.

The last thing you want to deal with is a trailer tire that suffers a blowout or deflates. You could end up stuck on the side of the road or out in the wilderness. Too much weight on the tires can also cause axle bending, which is an expensive repair to avoid.

Choosing an ST trailer tire in the appropriate size and the right load rating will ensure you enjoy many happy journeys. This is why it’s not worth saving a few dollars on less adequate RV tires.

How to Choose the Right Tire Size

Thankfully, trailer owners will be happy to know that choosing the right tire size is easier than you might expect. The manual for your RV will have most of the information you need. You can find the tire size there, as well as on stickers on the trailer itself.

When it comes down to it, the tire has to fit your rims. In addition, you need to follow pressure and load ratings to get the best possible performance.

Not able to find information about what tire size is appropriate for your trailer? Take a look at the current tires you have on the RV and choose something similar.

On the other hand, if you’re unsure, it’s best to go to a tire dealer. They can recommend a tire that will meet your needs. This is far better than guessing, which could lead to problems down the road.

How Often Should You Replace Your Trailer Tires?

Now that you’re aware of what tires to choose and have checked out our list of the best ones, you might wonder how long they will last on your trailer. While there is general longevity associated with RV tires, you should also look at the tire pressure, sidewalls, and treads before every trip.

For the sidewalls, look for any uneven wear or bulges. These issues might occur if the tire was rubbed or has been hit by an object. In addition, small cracks begin to form as the rubber gets older. However, when the cracks get larger, it’s a sign that you should immediately replace the trailer tire.

When looking at the tire tread, it should be at least 1/8 of an inch deep. Depending on the original depth, you might want to be sure it’s closer to 1/4 of an inch deep. In most cases, the tires start with 1/3 to 1/2 inch of tread depth.

Remember that as the tread becomes more shallow, you will also have less traction on wet surfaces. This means the tires can’t remove the water and hydroplaning can occur.

It’s best to be overly cautious in terms of when to replace your trailer tires. If you ignore damage or wait too long, you run the risk of having extreme damage done to your RV. It can also compromise the safety of anyone inside your vehicle.

As far as general longevity, most tires last about three to five years. Even if they have good tread, tires older than six years should likely be replaced.

These tires can dry out and crack even when in storage the whole time. You can expect flat tires more often. Other problems like blowouts are also more likely when using older tires. It’s better to replace than to risk an accident.

How to Keep Trailer Tires in Excellent Shape

You have insight into choosing trailer tires, when to replace them, and what brands to choose. We also want to share tips on how to keep your tires working well for as long as possible.

Only Buy Fresh Tires

Whenever you buy tires for an RV, make sure they are completely fresh. Being capable of reading tire dates and checking every time is the best way to get excellent tires that last a long time. Not doing this could lead to you purchasing tires that have been sitting around for a year or even longer.

For the best results, only choose tires that are less than six months old whenever possible.

As soon as tire rubber comes off the assembly line, it starts to break down. That means new tires that sit around for a long time are not going to have the same performance as tires that just came into the shop.

Before you let anyone install tires, check the dates. Then, do it again after the tires have been installed. This ensures you get a nice long lifespan on your trailer tires.

Check the Tire Pressure

You should be checking the tire pressure on a regular basis. Make sure you do so before trips as well as when you are on the road. Having a tire pressure gauge and a tire pressure monitoring system is a good idea. All you need to do is set aside a few minutes when you fuel up to make sure things are as they should be.

If you notice you have a low tire, it’s also useful to have a compact air compressor available to take care of it immediately.

Invest in Tire Covers

Keeping your tires in good shape can also be done by using heavy-duty tire covers. Tires tend to break down from the presence of UV rays, whether it’s sitting in storage or out on the road in the bright sunshine.

When you cover the tires, it helps keep snow, rain, dirt, and UV rays away from the tires. This ensures they last as long as possible.

Final Thoughts

With the help of this guide, you should be well on your way to choosing the right trailer tires to enjoy your journeys, wherever they take you. Enjoy a quiet and smooth ride with your motorhome and a stress-free trip when bringing along a heavy travel trailer or fifth wheel.

The truth is that the right RV tires can make a huge difference in how your recreational vehicle handles on the road (and off of it). If you need a new set of tires, use the guide above to set you off on your search with all the information you need.

Tire Speed RatinG

Speed rating all about safety.

Stay safe! Tire speed rating indicates the maximum service speed for a tire. So, exceeding speed limits is not recommended by the tire manufacture. In addition, no indicator exists for how well the tire handles or corners.

This rating provides a maximum speed capability of the tire with proper inflation. Manufacturers do not recommend fitting tires with different ratings. Doing so could lead to poor handling and unpredictable steering. If a vehicle has tires with different ratings, then placing like pair tires on the same axle is ideal. Otherwise, the speed capability of the vehicle is determined to be that of the lowest speed rated tires.

Letters ranging from L to Z identify the speed rating. The lowest rating, L, is 75 mph. The highest rating, Z, is 149+ mph. For more speed limits, please refer to speed rating Chart below for more detail.

Please note that this is the speed rating chart example used for instructional purposes. Our goal is to help you understand this rating system. So, please refer to your tire's specifications.

Speed Rating V

Example shown in diagram: 149 mph, maximum speed capability. Typical fitment for sport sedans, coupes & sports cars.

Speed Rating L

Example shown in diagram: 75 mph, maximum speed capability. Typical fitment for off-road and light truck tires.

Load range chart Passenger Car

Disclaimer: This article is intended to help consumers of tires understand speed rating. Therefore, please refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the information about your specific tires. This article is for instructional purposes only.

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Trailer Tire Types and Specifications (Full Guide)

• Agota Szabo
• Sep 30, 2022

"What are ST tires?" might flash through your mind when you see a weird tire size. These are different from car tires, as they are specifically manufactured for load handling.

ST tires are designed to be mounted on free-rolling axles, which do not need to provide steering and traction. This is the difference between trailer tire vs car tire sets.

But, which is the best trailer tire?

That answer greatly depends on your needs. An offroad trailer tire set is vastly distinct from camping trailer tires. Application, manufacturing country, speed and load ratings, construction, etc, are all important when looking for your next set!

Also, do you wish to purchase cheap trailer tires, made in the USA or something else? Let's go through everything you need to know about these tires.

Trailer Tires Based on Vehicle Type

Not all trailers are equal. Different cargo will require versatile trailer tires. Hauling livestock will require a smoother performance than dealing with construction materials. Their load and speed durability are also important for various cargo hauling.

So, the best travel trailer tires will greatly differ from any other tire set!

These are the important features you need to search for in the tire market.

Boat Trailer Tires

Hauling boats need both durability and stability. These models perform in a similar manner to travel trailer tires and trailer owners will need to count for heavy-load capacity, minimized trailer swaying, and optimized driving stability. If the tires have these characteristics, they will be an excellent choice.

Fifth-Wheel and Travel Trailer Tires

Special trailer tires offer safer performance and are necessary for travel and fifth-wheel trailers. These trailers require tires that offer stability, fuel efficiency, and reduced swaying. Shallow grooves and stable ribs optimize their surface contact, which decreases rolling resistance while boosting stability at the same time.

Utility Trailer Tires

Utility trailers or trailers hauling livestock need something smoother. Heat build-up and deformations are out of the question. You also do not want to experience tire blowouts when hauling animals or expensive equipment. Tires that keep cool and optimize their stability will work well for such trailers.

Trailer Tire Ratings Explained

While all trailers need trailer tires, not all trailer tires are equal!

Like most tires, models belonging to this category are marked for load and speed durability, after the trailer tire size. These ratings determine their performance and durability throughout their performance.

Trailer Tire Load Ranges

Heavy-duty tires, including Special Trailer tires, have a load range rating. This is a letter that represents the load capacity each tire can carry without issues.

The most common are C, E, F, G, and D-rated trailer tires. However, more durable H and G-rated models also exist. These go alphabetically, where higher letters offer better load durability. Yet, do not forget about the load index of each tire, as this load range does not change their actual load handling power.

Trailer Tire Speed Rating

Speed ratings note the max speed limit of a tire. While there are high speed trailer tire models available, most trailer tires will be rated for around 65 mph.

The speed limit of the tires must not be exceeded. Driving faster will result in heat build-up that can lead to tire failure and blowouts. Trailer tire sizing will include the speed rating in order to ensure their driving safety. However, keep in mind, just because a trailer has a higher speed rating, does not necessarily mean that it can handle high speed performance.

This is How You Pick the Right Trailer Tire Load Rating

Trailers carry cargo, that's their primary function. Now, the type of load rating your trailer tires will need will greatly depend on their weight-carrying ability.

To put it in simpler terms: even if you get stronger tires that does not increase the trailer's load capacity. For this reason, when looking for a new trailer tire set, it is crucial that the correct tires are purchased.

Checking Your Trailer's Weight Capacity

Before you start looking for trailer tires, check the trailer's GVWR, or Groos Vehicle Weight Rating. This is the weight limit of the trailer's performing capability, including the weight of its cargo.

Therefore, the tires you purchase should be able to carry at least that much load!

Now, all tires (trailer or not) have load ratings. This is the maximum load capacity of 1 tire, which is often shown for both single and double applications on the tire sidewall. Just be sure to keep in mind that this number shows the absolute maximum load durability when the tires are at their max psi levels.

If these numbers are exceeded and you run the trailer overloaded, either the tires or the trailer's axle will fail. So, it is best to keep it within safe limits.

Radial vs Bias Ply Trailer Tires

Now, the debate still stands: bias vs radial trailer tires? Which one do you need?

The short answer is: it depends on the trailers' applications.

Whether you need a bias or radial trailer set will be determined by multiple factors. These are speed, comfort, handling, load-carrying capacity, fuel economy, and tread life length. Depending on what your trailer needs, you will have to choose between bias or radial tires.

Radial Trailer Tires

Radial tires for trailer applications feature a structure that consists of plies added at 90-degree angles from bead to bead. These reinforce the tire under loads and help maximize its heat resistance. Furthermore, they provide the tire with a wider footprint.

The advantages of radial trailer tire sets:

• Damage resistance for your trailer = radial tires on the trailer
• Smoother and often quiet performance
• Better fuel efficiency with decreased rolling resistance
• Lengthened usability with their wider footprint
• Minimized trailer swaying

Bias Trailer Tires

Bias tires feature diagonally placed plies in their construction. This creates thicker sidewalls and narrow footprints, that are perfect for larger loads. The sidewalls also offer better damage resistance, ensuring their secure performance.

The advantages of bias-ply trailer tires:

• Able to support heavy loads
• They have a lower price point compared to radials
• Good for straight-line driving when handling loads

For more information about radial vs. bias tires , visit our blog post!

How Can Heavy Duty Trailer Tires Hold Big Loads?

Their load-carrying capacity is one of the most important characteristics of versatile trailer tires. The best choice trailer models feature thick sidewalls that can handle the weight of their cargo without problems.

But, how can you know which is the right trailer model for your specific trailer? What should trailer owners look at when purchasing heavy-duty tires?

What you purchase for your trailer will greatly depend on what your cargo is. Camper trailer tires will not perform the same as boat trailer models. So, what are the best trailer tires for heavy-load applications? Well, if you are on the market for durable trailer tires that can handle big loads, look for these characteristics:

Thick Sidewall

Trailer tire construction places more focus on the sidewall structure. These are thicker and sturdier. These sidewalls are able to withstand the high trailer tire psi levels necessary to securely perform under larger loads.

Damage-Resistant Structure

Road hazards can easily damage tires that are not prepared for it. However, thanks to the reinforced construction, stiff shoulder pattern, and damage-resistant compound, trailer tires provide protection against damage. This is even more prevalent with off-road trailer tires, which face even more abuse during their applications.

Improved Handling

Higher trailer tire air pressure levels, stable footprints, and durable structures also work together to optimize its handling. They guarantee surface contact, which offers a safer towing experience. Furthermore, these manufacturing characteristics help prevent trailer swaying, which can tip trailers over in no time.

Important: you should always follow trailer tire speed ratings! Exceeding the speed limit can result in serious consequences, even with high speed trailer tires.

Trailer Tires vs Car Tires, What's the Difference?

Have you even wondered why mounting an ST tire on your car is a bad idea?

Well, we are here to explain why you should definitely NOT to that!

The main difference between trailer tires and car tires, and what causes the biggest issue, is their internal structure. Even if both sets are radial tires, their other components will differ.

Trailer tires for sale are manufactured specifically for free-rolling axles. They are able to provide only the minimal necessary traction and grip, as the towing vehicle's tires are responsible for traction. Additionally, the driving pressure affecting car trailer tires is vastly different from LT tires. ST trailer tires are only able to handle the heat and load pressure on free-rolling axle applications.

The same does for load range E trailer tires and those with bigger or smaller load durabilities. No matter if we talk camper tires, small trailer tires, RV trailer tires, or larger models, they should never be mounted on light trucks.

On the other hand, car tires are optimized to withstand the weight and driving pressure of towing vehicles. They provide both the traction and handling stability needed to optimize driving safety.

Read more about trailer tire vs car tire discussion at Priority Tire!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do trailer tires last.

How long trailer tires last depends on how much they are used yearly. If the tires are in use for less than 5,000 miles/year, dry rot will get to them sooner than their tread wears out. These are good for about 5-6 years. However, trailers with more use than this will need tire changes more frequently.

What does ST Mean on Tires?

ST on trailer tires stands for Special Trailer. These two letters indicate that the tires should only be mounted on trailers. Their internal structure differs from that of LT tires, therefore, ST tires for trailers cannot be used on light trucks. These models are optimized for free-rolling axle applications.

What are The Best Tires for Towing a Travel Trailer?

To pull a travel trailer, without sacrificing traction and tread wear, the tires you mount on the towing vehicle need to be able to withstand the pressure placed on them. The best tires for towing travel trailers provide traction, handling, and durability - they are preferably 10-ply tire models.

Should Trailer Tires be Inflated to Max psi?

Yes, trailer tires need to be inflated to their maximum psi when they are cold. This is in order to ensure their full load-carrying capacity and to minimize heat build-up - reducing tread wear and fuel efficiency. What trailer tire pressure should be is represented on the tire's sidewall.

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The Best Trailer Tires for Travel Trailer in 2023

Comparison, buying guide, and reviews.

Deciding you need new tires is only the start of finding the right ones for your vehicle and your next journey. There are many options available when it comes to tires, the next question is how to find the right tire for you in this very crowded field. We’ve simplified this process for you by presenting a range of the best trailer tires on the market.

We’ve sought to include something for everyone, whether you want to upgrade the trailer tires on your trailer to something that will handle use and abuse of your next off-road adventure or cheap little spare tires for your trailers that you can swap out in a matter of minutes so you’re back on the road as quickly as possible.

Top 5 Best Tires for Trailer use - Comparison

What is a trailer tire actually.

Trailer tires are not made to meet the same performance specifications as vehicle tires. For example, trailer tires are pulled but never push the vehicle, so sidewall flexing is a negative. And trailer tires don’t need to flex to preserve rider comfort, since they’re not supposed to be used on most passenger carrying vehicles. 

Stiffer sidewalls help prevent the trailer or an RV from swaying. Higher operating pressures allow the trailer tires to support much heavier loads like a tractor trailer. 

Here are the Top 13 Best Trailer Tires Full Review

Now that you know about the various options available when it comes to tires, the next question is how to find the right tire for you in this very crowded field. We’ve simplified this process for you by presenting a range of the best trailer tires on the market.

We’ve sought to include something for everyone, whether you want to upgrade the trailer tires on your trailer to something that will handle use and abuse or cheap little spare tires for your trailers. 

01) Carlisle Radial HD Trailer Tire, Model T205/75R15 107M 

Editor Rating: 4.8/5

Price: Check on Amazon

This is a decent, basic tire. It has better durability, life expectancy and heat resistance than other tires in its price range.

This tire is an excellent overall value. The tread depth is a good 9/32 inches. This gives you a good grip on the road, while the low rolling resistance maximizes your fuel efficiency.

The bolt pattern or pitch circle diameter is 4 pico-meters. 

The tire has a 250 millimeter section width. The aspect ratio is 75. The tire width is 8.18” The rim diameter is 15 inches.

The load index rating is 109. This is equal to a maximum load of 2200 pounds per tire. The speed rating is M.

This trailer tire can safely go as fast as 87 miles per hour, making it perfect for fast trips down the highway. The rim width is such that you could put it on either 5” or 6” wide rims. The only caveat is that the tires that can support 2150 pounds apiece shouldn’t be put on rims that can’t handle that weight.

The total load the tires can handle is 6500 pounds, a standard heavy load for a 16 foot long utility trailer.

The manufacturer says the tread pattern will minimize road noise and maximize stability. They aren’t nearly as quiet as promised, and the tires can create vibrations in the trailer itself. This may happen despite the tires being “balanced”.

On rough rural roads and off-road, they are prone to sudden failure. This is partially due to the weaker sidewalls. While the tread has two polyester and two steel ply, the sidewall has only 2 polyester ply. 

• Overall value 
• Excellent fuel efficiency when you use these tires 
• Can’t handle off-road conditions 

02) Maxxis Model M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire - 225/75R15 BSW

Editor Rating: 4.7/5

This is a Maxxis tire, no other hardware included. These Maxxis tires have a 10 ply rating. Their section width is 225 millimeters. The aspect ratio is 75.

These radial tires by Maxxis have a load index rating of 117. That means each tire can support around 2800 pounds. Their rim diameter is 15”. The rim width is 225 millimeters.

They’re E-rated. This makes them a good choice for fifth wheel trailers.

The speed rating is R. That means the tires could go up to 100 miles per hour safely; if you’re driving through rural areas at 90 miles an hour, you need trailer tires like these that can keep up. 

The tires are relatively easy to mount. They don’t seem particularly temperature sensitive. The double steel belted construction is supposed to make the tires more stable.

These tires are made in Taiwan, giving them a higher overall quality than those made in China as cheaply as possible. The tires are relatively quiet. Tread wear isn’t as good as the manufacturer says it is. These tires don’t handle well on wet pavement or in snow, and that becomes worse as the tread wears down.

In a wintery mix, it hardly has any traction at all. However, they do fine on dry pavement. Don’t overinflate them to try to improve traction; they are only supposed to be filled to 80 PSI at most. 

• High speed rating 
• Better than average weight rating 
• Relatively quiet for trailer tires 
• Middling performance on slippery pavement 
• Horrible performance on ice 

03) Wheels Express Inc. 15" Silver Radial Tire, Model ST205/75R15 with Tire Mounted (5x4.5) Bolt Circle

Editor Rating: 4.6/5

This is the best trailer tire for those who that have the 5 hole bolt pattern. The pitch circle diameter is 4.5”. This makes the bolt pattern 5-4.5”. 

The rim width is 5 inches. The rim diameter is 15”. This can be a difficult type of tire to find on the market. Their load range is C. It can support a trailer and load that hits 5000 pounds.

The tread on these tires is a mixed bag. The manufacturer provides a tread wear indicator, as if that makes up for the relatively thin 0.24” tread depth.

Another downside is that the tread wears out relatively quickly. 

The aspect ratio on these tires is 205 millimeters. The section width is 75 millimeters. These dimensions are standard for 15” rims. The rims are not galvanized, just coated with silver powder to look like they’re galvanized.

The tires come with the rim. The downside is that they’re not always balanced either radially or side to side. Expect to have to have them professionally balanced unless you’re willing to have your trailer vibrate a lot.

Fail to do this, and the rim’s vibration can cause the lug nuts to come loose. They’re decent spare tires but can be annoying if you replace all four of the trailer tires with these. 

• Rims included 
• Comes with free tire tread monitor 
• Relatively thin tread that wears quickly 

04) eCustomRim Trailer Tire On Rim, Model ST205/75D15 F78-15 205/75-15 LRC, 5 Lug Wheel with White Spokes

Editor Rating: 4.5/5

These bias ply tires are compatible with a lot of boat trailers. In fact, they are plug-and-play with almost every major brand of boat trailer.

They’re also compatible with many cargo trailers and utility trailers. If you are in need of a universal spare tire for all of your trailers, these are the best trailer tires available, since you can remove the existing tire and put this one on, rim and wheel at once.

These tires have a maximum weight rating of 1800 pounds apiece. This is load range C. The seven thousand pound combined load is perfect for supporting a long trailer and mid-sized boat.

The eCustomRim Trailer Tire is strong enough

This is strong enough to support many travel trailers, as well. The section width of these tires is 205 millimeters. Their aspect ratio is 75. The tread depth is a middling 0.24”. This makes the tires great as spares or when you only take the trailer on short trips but not on long road trips.

If you take them off-road a lot, and we don’t mean to the boat slip, you’re going to see cords showing through the tread in just a few months of use. They have a bolt pattern of 5 bolt holes. The lug nut holes are 0.45”. The hub wheel diameter is 6.50”. The rims themselves are made from steel.

The white spokes are stylish, if the aesthetics of your trailer tires matter to you. More important to many customers is the fact that the valve stems are already installed and often aired up.

These are the best trailer tires to have in your vehicle or trailer as a spare, if you have 5-bolt patterns on all your trailers. If you only take the trailer to the local lake or short trips to the state park, it is good enough for your needs. We don’t recommend these for long distance trips. 

• Fits almost every brand of boat and cargo trailer 
• Easy installation and removal 
• Good overall value 
• Minimal tread that wears quickly 

05) Grand Ride Brand Set of 4 New Premium Trailer Tires, Model ST 225/75R15 10PR Load Range E

Editor Rating:

This deal is for a set of four trailer tires; this is an excellent deal for those who want to put all new, matching tires on their existing trailer.

This is only a set of four tires, no rims included. This set of tires is a good choice for those who want to upgrade their RV tires after returning from a trip. 

These tires have a nylon cap ply, a nylon overlay across the entire tread instead of just the shoulder, strengthening the tires. Their ply rating is 10 ply, but the sidewalls are not that durable. Keep them on the highway or, at most, gravel roads. Don’t take them off-road. 

They have a better than average load rating of 2800 pounds per tire; this is load range E. Their speed rating is L, letting the tires go up to 75 miles per hour without affecting safety.

They have a rim width of 6”. Their section width is 225 millimeters. The aspect ratio for these tires is 75. The tires are designed for 15” rims. The tread depth is 0.32”, roughly a third of an inch. This is average for this type of tire.

These are one of the best sets of tires for power towing. These are trailer tires, so while they could be mounted on some cars, they shouldn’t be. However, if you're pulling heavy loads, these tires should be on your trailer. 

• Suitable for heavy loads and power towing 
• Issues with sidewall failures at a higher rate than expected
• Doesn’t do well off-road

06) TRAILER KING Brand ST Radial Tire-ST205/75R15 D 107L 

Editor Rating: 4.4/5

This tire’s design has better heat dissipation than average; it will travel a long way on hot roads before it would fail even if near the end of its tread life.

The construction itself makes the tread more durable than many rival tires, and it isn’t just because these are radial tires.

The center grooves give the tires consistent tracking as long as the tires are experiencing even wear and tear. 

The tread depth is 9.5 / 32 of an inch.

The tires have a section width of 205 millimeters. The aspect ratio is 75. The tire rim diameter is 15 inches. The tires are sold with a tread wear indicator. These tires do not come with the rim. 

The load index rating is 107. The speed rating for these tires is L. That gives the tires a top speed of 75 miles per hour. The bolt pattern is 74 pico-meters. These tires are more stable than average. They provide consistent tracking. This helps you when you’re taking your trailer on winding roads.

The ST in the title isn’t intended to be misleading, but some people think that means these are standard truck tires. They aren’t – they’re trailer tires. The stiffer sidewalls in these tires help it carry a heavy load but they can’t flex to handle quick turns like car tires. Their dimensions do make them suitable for most RV trailers and fifth wheels.

A Downside of the Trailer King Tires

One common complaint is in the ply rating. They are rated as 7 ply, but the tread is 5 ply, while the side walls are 2 ply. The sidewalls are not as durable as the tread.

Avoid side impacts and driving these trailer tires on rough terrain and through the brush. Another issue is the load range. They’re load range D though they’re sometimes listed as load range C. These tires can only carry about 1800 pounds apiece.

However, this still makes them the best trailer tires for those on our list who carry very heavy loads. 

• Good tread quality
• Long operating life 
• High speed rating
•  Stability 
• Ply rating and load range are not as high as often advertised 

07) Carlisle Brand Sport Trail LH Bias Trailer Tire - 5.30-12 LRB 

One of the points in favor of this model is price. It is cheap, cheap, cheap. However, they tend to put out less amperage than they advertise.

For example, a 100 amp unit may only put out 70 amps. Yet they sometimes manage to blow out fuseThe Carlisle brand trailer tire is designed for a variety of trailers.

They list it as being perfect for boat trailers, cargo hauling, utility trailers, construction trailers and agricultural trailers. It is made to be plug-and-play with a wide range of boat trailers.

The Carlisle sport tires will work on Yamaha, Alumacraft and Triton boat trailers as well as another dozen manufacturers. It is compatible with a wide range of cargo and utility trailers, too. 

They’ll work on your E-Z Hauler, United Trailers and Wells Cargo Trailers. The ST means Sport Trail not standard truck, so don’t try to put them on the truck pulling the trailer.

These lightweight Sport Trail model trailer tires weigh about ten pounds apiece. The section width and rim diameter are both 5.3”. The rim width is 12”. The tires are made to carry up to 1480 pounds apiece. You could carry up to nearly 6000 pounds with four of these tires.

What should you look when you're on use?

These are bias ply tires. The tread depth is a modest 6/32”, rather thin. These tires should be used on trailers that infrequently carry heavy leads like taking your boat to the lake on the weekend, not taken on a road trip.

The tread wear indicator isn’t going to help you much for carrying a heavy load at high speed on a tire not made for it. These are the best trailer tires for slow moving, heavy duty trailers you only pull out of the driveway once in a while.

Their wide shoulder lugs helps them handle the stresses of trying to pull and turn with a heavy load, especially when initially trying to get moving.

Note that it is only the tire, no rim included. This plus their design makes them more time consuming to mount if you’re using them as spare tires. Conversely, their design makes them a decent choice for light duty cargo hauling and light travel trailers where they’ll stay on for years.

No tire is perfect, and the biggest flaw in these tires is how hard they are to bead. Quality control is hit and miss, and some tires show excessive wear after just a few hundred miles on the road.

This means that you may get a bad tire that doesn’t meet the performance specifications we used to give this tire such a great overall review.

• Works with almost every type of trailer 
• Carries heavy loads well 
• Not suited for going the distance
• Thin tread that is sometimes worse than expected 

08) Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire, Model 2057515 

Editor Rating: 4.3/5

This trailer tire is a true load range D tire. It can support up to 1800 pounds per tire. It has rugged 8 ply rated construction, though they only have 5 ply used.

The load index rating is 102. The maximum allowed air pressure is 65 PSI. Do not over-inflate them, or you’ll damage the sidewalls.

Some people who complain about sidewall issues were causing the issue themselves by making this mistake.

This Freestar brand tire fits any 15” rims. They can fit rims with a width from 5.5” to 7.5”. The section width is 205 millimeters. The aspect ratio is 75, but these are one of the few tires on the market that could fit a trailer with a 65 aspect ratio. 

The speed rating is J. This means you shouldn’t take them above 60 miles an hour. The tread depth is 10/32”. The radial tires have better than average wear resistance above and beyond the typical radial tire. These tires are an excellent value, since they have a long running life despite their relatively low price.

The sidewall durability is average. If the sidewalls develop a bulge, replace them immediately. They have decent traction on both wet roads and dry surfaces. They don’t have much of a track record on icy roads, though they are classified as all-season tires.

These tires are sold individually, and they don’t come with rims. These heavy duty tires are heavy given the normal weight range for this product class. 

• Fits a wide range of rim widths, including sizes few other tires do 
• Can travel at 60 miles per hour safely 
• Thicker than average tread
• Decent performance on wet roads 
• No rims 
• Heavy 

09) Hykolity ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire, ST225-75R15 Tires, 117M 10-Ply Load Range E, Set of 4

This is a set of four Hykolity Parts brand radial tires. These are the best trailer tires for those who need to replace all the tires they have on the trailer in one swoop. Note that rims are not included. 

These tires are notable for fitting 6” rims. They are load range E. They can support 2500 pounds per tire easily. In theory, the 117 load index means each tire can support up to 2,833 pounds apiece.

Their speed rating is L. You can put these on a trailer towed up to 75 miles per hour.

The tires have a section width of 225 millimeters. Their aspect ratio is 75 millimeters. The ST vehicle service type means that they’re only suitable for the standard trailer, not trucks themselves. 

The tread depth is 6.5 millimeters; these tires have average wear resistance, but understand that they will wear down quickly if used regularly.

Nor does the manufacturer provide a tread monitoring sensor in case the tread gets dangerously thin. While the heavy 10 ply equivalent rating gives the body relatively strong performance when it hits bumps, the load will shake and bounce quite a bit. 

• Fit 6” rims 
• Good overall value for the set of four tires 
• Can travel safely at 70 plus miles per hour
• Limited running life if heavily used 
• Relatively thin tread 

10) Wheels Express Inc. Brand 15” ST205/75D15 Wheel Tire Mounted with (5x4.5) Bolt Circle 

These 15” trailer wheels come with white rims that make installation a snap. They have a 5x4.5” bolt circle, so make sure this fits your trailer before you buy these tires as instant replacement tires. 

These Wheels Express trailer tires have a maximum weight rating of 1800 pounds apiece. They can tolerate a maximum air pressure of 50 PSI. You could carry a 6000 pound load with some margin to spare with a set of four of these tires.

These replacement trailer tires are plug-and-play with all the major boat trailers such as those made by River Pro, Tahoe, Yamaha and Sea Ray.

They are also plug-and-play with all the major utility and cargo trailer brands. This list includes but is not limited to Triple Crown, Teske, Performance Trailers, PT Trailers, Mistka, United, Big Tex and Carry-On.

They’re equally at home on your Sun Tracker boat trailer as a Triple Crown cargo trailer. And given their design, you can easily pull these tires off one trailer and put them on another if necessary. These tires have a section width of 205 millimeters. Their aspect ratio is 75. The tread depth is 0.24”.

These tires are best used as spare tires. They may only last a few months of heavy use, but they will get you home safely. They may last one or two winters in storage but will need to be replaced after that. 

• Fits nearly every type of 15” trailer rim 
• Easy to install 
• Higher weight range than other tires on this list
• Moderately short running life 

11) Trailer King Radial Trailer Tire – Model 225/75R15 117L, Rims Not Included

This radial tire has decent run-life, beyond that expected of radial trailer tires. These tires have a section width of 225 millimeters. Their aspect ratio is 75. Their rim diameter is 15”.

This trailer tire as the description says doesn’t come with rims, though many of the online listings show a tire with rims.

This trailer tire has a center groove designed to maximize stability and tracking. That is in addition to the tread depth of 10/32”, a little better than average.

The load index rating for this Trailer King tire is 117. That means it can hold a maximum of roughly 2800 pounds per tire. Four of these tires on a trailer can safely carry up to 10,000 pounds (including the trailer) with a little margin to spare.

The speed rating for this tire is L. It can safely travel up to 75 miles per hour. A number of competing tires can’t safely top 60 or 65 miles per hour.

One downside of these tires is that their material quality seems to leave something to be desired. They deteriorate faster than expected on exposure to heat and sunlight.

• Better than average speed rating
• High load rating
• Faster deterioration than expected

12) Libra Parts  Premium Trailer Tires, Model ST 205 75R15 / 8PR Load Range D Steel Belted

These tires are an outright bargain, since you save on each premium tire by buying two at once. This is only for the tires; no rims are included. That aside, they’re relatively easy to get on your trailer.

These tires have the load range of D. The load index rating is 107. This is equivalent to each tire carrying about 2150 pounds apiece.

Four of these tires on a trailer can safely carry an 8000 pound load with margin. One advantage of these tires is how well they hold their air.

They are designed for a rim width of 5.5”. The section width is 205 millimeters. The aspect ratio is 75.

These tires are not as easy to bead as expected.

• Decent load carrying capacity
• Hard to bead

13) Gladiator Brand Model 20575R15 ST 205/75R15 Steel Belted Trailer Tire 8 Ply 15" Load Range D

These tires have a load range of D. That means each tire can support around 2150 pounds. The tires have a section width of 205 and aspect ratio of 75. They are designed for 15” diameter rims.

The steel belting gives the tread exceptional strength when it hits heavy potholes or is otherwise under stress. They’re good for driving on rough terrain like gravel roads and agricultural environments.

Note that the tire should be replaced if you ever see the steel belts. They’re reasonably resistant to wear. 

These have very long running lives even for radial tires. They generate relatively little road noise.

About the only problem these tires experience is balancing. You need to get them professionally balanced to have a smooth ride for your trailer.

Use them very long, and it is almost impossible to get them properly balanced even if they all have the same tread pattern.

• Good for agricultural trailers
• Durable tread
• Poor balancing

The Difference Types of Trailer Tires

Radial ply and bias ply are the two main types of trailer tires. When a tire has “R” emblazoned on the side by the size information, you know it is a radial tire. If the tire isn’t labeled with an R, it is a bias tire. Each tire has its pros and cons. We’ll address each in detail. 

01. Radial Tires

Radial tires have rubber coated steel cables cords or piles built into the tire that run perpendicular to the direction of travel. On top of that, they have belts in the tread. This gives them a smoother ride and longer life than bias tires in most cases. If a bias ply tire lasts 12,000 miles, a radial tire will last 36,000 miles in the same operating conditions. 

Radial tires are less prone to become flat if parked for a long time. Radial tires are the better choice if you’re towing at high speeds. They’re the best trailer tires for long trips on flat roads. They run cooler on long trips, and this could save you from a blowout. Their longer running life means you’re less likely to have tread separate, too.

The downside of radial tires is that they won’t carry the same load as a comparably sized bias ply tire. Yet the greater flexing of radial tires gives you better stability on turns and better traction when you’re on ice. Radial tires are the best trailer tires when you’re pulling a travel trailer with occupants. Their lower road noise is a definite plus in these cases. 

02. Bias Tires

Bias tires have plies that are layered so they criss-cross. This gives them shorter running life on flat roads. However, bias tires beat radial tires if you’re on rough roads. This is partially due to their greater puncture resistance, especially in the sidewalls.

Another point in favor of bias tires is their lower cost. If you don’t drive the trailer very often or need a fast, cheap replacement, bias tires are a good choice. Just don’t leave the tires parked in the same position, though moving the vehicle or trailer a short distance is good enough to solve the problem. 

They have less sway and bounce. This is great for preventing an RV from tilting as far when you hit a rock on one side, but it means a rougher ride in general. Conversely, bias tires can typically carry a heavier load than radial tires. 

What's the Difference between Radial and Bias Ply Trailer Tires? 

Bias tires have plies that run at 30° angles. The body ply cords extend diagonally from bead to bead. The cords are made from a combination of steel and polyester, though nylon is sometimes used. Their stiffer sidewalls give you a distinct advantage in agricultural environments and off-roading. You want bias ply tires on a boat you’re driving over the rocks and pushing through the trees to get to the boat ramp. Bias tires are generally the best trailer tires for a utility trailer on a ranch. 

Radial ply tires have plies that run perpendicular to the belts and the tire. In layman’s terms, the cords run at a 90° angle across the tire body from bead to bead. Bias tires work better off-road than radial tires but can work on flat highway; they just won’t last as long as radials.

In summary, the main difference between these tires is in their construction and how the radials relate to the rest of the tire. All of their differences in performance and application are due to that difference. 

Warning: Either install all radial or all bias ply tires, but don’t mix and match them on the vehicle or trailer. Between the differences in construction and performance, combining them will affect ride quality and the life expectancy of the tires.

Single Axle vs. Tandem Axle? What's the Difference?

Double or tandem axel trailers have two axels close together to help spread the weight of the load. Single axel trailers have one axel on it with a wheel connected to each end. Single axel trailers are popular because of their lower price, tighter maneuverability, and lower average weight.

Downside of a single axel trailer

The downside of a single axel trailer is that it puts all of the load on one set of tires, wearing out the tires faster. Double axel trailers distribute the load across more tires, reducing wear on each individual tire. They tend to be more stable at high speeds and have better suspension.

Conversely, you have to buy more tires to get the trailer going. Whether you can keep going on a tandem axel trailer when one tire has blown out depends on your situation.

In Leveling and Rotating

Single axel trailers don’t have to be level while you’re towing it; if this happens on a tandem axel trailer, you’ll wear out the overloaded tires much faster if not blow them out.

Single axel trailer tires really don’t need to be rotated. Tandem axel trailer tires only need to be rotated if you notice increased wear that’s faster than you expect. Rotate tandem axel tires from front to back, ideally in an “X” configuration. You must be careful to have even wear on tandem axel trailer tire to maintain full control of the trailer.

Choose the type what meats your load capacity

They don’t really sell tires that are single axel or tandem axel. Instead, the right way to buy tires for these different types of trailers is to select the tires that can support the load they’ll be on.

Consider the load created by the trailer itself, any gear you put on the trailer and any occupants in it. Divide that by the number of tires, and you have a rough floor for how much weight each trailer tire needs to be able to support.

Always give yourself significant margin over that minimum value.

Make sure the speed

Always figure out the speed you will be traveling with the trailer in tow, and ensure that all tires on the trailer are rated for that speed or higher to minimize the chance of a blowout.

The side benefit of tandem trailers is that if one tire does go, you have others still running so you have more control over the trailer when this happens.

In general, you need to have higher load ratings for single axel trailer tires than tandem axel trailer tires unless you’re not going to pull a heavy payload. 

Things to Consider before Buying the Perfect Trailer Tires

Not all tires are the same, and this is true whether you’re searching for car tires or trailer tires. Let’s look at the factors you should use when determining which trailer tires are perfect for your particular situation.

01. Trailer Made 

One factor to consider is the type of trailer you want to be hauling and the type of tires for your application. Many camping trailers require massive light truck tires and specifically call for them. Mid-sized trailers could use passenger tires or light truck tires. And there are trailers that should only have trailer tires used on them, such as trailers pulling boats and ATVs. 

Trailer tires are typically made with stronger side-walls. You’ll appreciate this if your tires are hit by rocks or tree branches. Don’t put trailer tires like this on your passenger vehicle. 

02. Weight and Size

Obviously if you have a low trailer made for 12” tires, you’re going to need tires that fit the rims. The tires should have the correct dimensions to fit the rim of the wheel. And the outer dimension of the tires should fit your trailer, as well. You can’t fit a 35” tire in a 27” diameter wheel well. 

Spare tires are generally smaller and lighter than tires made for the literal long haul. You should carry spare tires for your trailer just as you do for your vehicle. You may not be able to safely reach the next gas station or rest point without these.

However, spare tires designed as spares are only made to travel short distances, especially if you’re carrying a full load. Don’t expect spare tires to carry you the last 500 miles of your road trip.

Conversely, full LT or commercial trailer tires weigh more, but they’ll take you the 100 miles back to civilization over rough terrain or 200 miles of highway to get you to your favorite mechanic. 

03. Inflation 

There are several ways this affects the tires you buy. One is the relationship between PSI and speed ratings. In general, the higher the tire inflation, the faster you can go.

However, that’s not a direct, linear relationship. Higher load ranges also identify tires with stronger internal construction, so they can hold more air pressure. However, you should pay attention to the pressure ratings listed on the side of the tire and stay within those limits.

Over-inflation and under-inflation both wear out the tires faster than they otherwise would. Over-inflation prevents your tires from having proper traction. Under-inflation causes too much of the tire to be in contact with the road, causing the tire friction to increase.

If the tires overheat, you risk a blowout. Don’t increase the inflation pressure in an attempt to safely drive at higher speeds than the speed rating, either. 

04. Speed Rating 

Speed rating is one of the biggest factors to consider in tire selection. It is dangerous to drive 65 miles an hour on tires rated for a speed of 60 miles an hour. You will, at best, wear them out faster, and at worst, you’ll suffer a catastrophic blowout.

Most trailer tires are rated with 65 miles per hour as their maximum speed. However, you can find models with a speed rating of 75 or 80 miles per hour. 

Make certain that all tires on your trailer have the same maximum safe speed or else you’ll lose one in a blowout. 

05. Load Range 

Load range is the most important factor to consider when buying trailer tires. The load the tires will be expected to carry is the weight of the trailer, the weight of the items you’ll haul in the trailer, and any people in or on the trailer. Divide that total weight by the number of tires to have a minimum load each tire will need to bear.

Remember that you may end up carrying more weight on the trailer than your initially expected load, and it isn’t fair to tell someone to walk because you put extra luggage on the top of the RV. Instead, multiply the expected load by a 20% safety margin. Then use that value as the minimum acceptable load for the tires you’ll buy. That value should be in the bottom to middle of the load range for the tires you’re buying. 

There are several reasons you want that margin. First, if the trailer is unevenly loaded, you’re putting more weight than your ideally distributed estimate on one or more tires. If you buy tires rated for 1500 pounds and your 6000 pound load is mostly sitting on the back tires, you risk a catastrophic failure.

The second reason to give yourself this margin is in case there are issues with the tires themselves. If one tire is under-inflated or simply blows out, the other tires can continue under the load. 

06. Tire Wear 

Tire wear can take several forms. If you’re buying used tires, the wear and tear on the tire determines its value. Tires that have worn down tread have little value, while a tire with flat spots or bald tread are dangerous if you’re trying to stop. 

Another variation of this is how the tires handle various conditions. Radial tires tend to wear more slowly than bias ply tires. They often last three times as long as bias tires. They wear far more slowly on flat highways.

However, on very rough terrain, bias ply tires will wear down more slowly, though they’ll have a shorter running life in terms of distance traveled. The durability of tires is proportional with price - cheaper tires typically wear out far faster. 

07. Sidewall 

The sidewall of your tires matters on trailer tires. The stiffer trailer tires will resist punctures as you drive a heavy RV back into a parking spot and as you back a boat through the trees into a boat dock.

Conversely, the stiff sidewall will mean there is less give when you hit bumps. If you have family in the travel trailer while you’re pulling it, they may appreciate tires with sidewalls with more give. They won’t bounce around as much, and there will be less road noise. 

Note that both special trailer (ST) and light truck (LT) tires are fully rated for use as trailer tires. Don’t put passenger (P) tires on your trailer. If you put P-metric tires on a trailer, reduce the load capacity by 10% (or more).

And if the maximum rated pressure for the wheel is exceeded, don’t go faster than 65 mph, regardless of the speed rating.

08. Tread 

The tire tread can be factored in several ways. Bias ply tires are cheaper, but they typically wear down faster. Radial ply tires last longer, especially on long road trips, but they cost more. Tire tread has the biggest impact, though, based on weather.

For example, if you’re driving on wet or icy streets, tires made to shed water or keep their grip on icy roads enhance your safety. Don’t mix radial and bias ply tires on a trailer; have it be all of one or the other. 

09. Valve Stem 

There are several types of tire valve stems you can find on any type of tire. The first is tubeless rubber snap-in valves/valve stems. These are the tire air pressure valves you usually see in passenger cars, light trucks and light duty trailers. These valve stems typically limit cold tire inflation to 65 PSI.

They can be found for holes 0.453” to 0.625” in diameter. They tend to have plastic caps, though metal caps are available. Most types of tire pressure monitoring systems will work with these tires, but it is not a guarantee. 

The second type of valve stems is the high pressure tubeless snap-in valves; they’re specifically designed to handle higher air pressures. These valve stems are popular for medium and heavy-duty trucks and trailers. They can be used when tire pressure is 80 to 100 PSI; that pressure limit depends on the rim hole size.

They have a thicker base and metal barrel, making the valve stem much sturdier than tubeless, low-pressure rubber ones. Nearly every tire pressure monitoring system will work with this type of valve stem. 

The third type is high pressure metal clamp-in valves. These valve stems are the toughest. They can handle operating pressures of up to 200 PSI, depending on rim hole size. Also, They are the best choice if your vehicle or trailer may exceed 130 miles per hour. They can fit a wide range of valve holes. 

10. Longevity 

Tires vary in how long they’re supposed to last. Some tires are rated to last so many miles, while others are designed to last so many years. Some tires will show clear color changes as they wear down or age, while others can only be checked visually or via the penny test. You can check the manufacturing date stamped on the outside of the tire.

Most major tire manufacturers say to replace the tires at six years of age, regardless of use and abuse. 

11. Traction 

How much traction do tires get? This is partially dependent on the type of tread and the condition of the tread. However, you can buy tires designed to maximize traction.

This is incredibly important if you want to stop as fast as possible when pulling a heavy trailer. 

12. Tire Age

In general, avoid buying old used tires. Between the odds that the material has weakened with age, the tread will be worn down and it may be damaged in ways you cannot see. 

One factor to consider is how well the tires will age, whether they’re exposed to the sun or left to sit in storage. Some tires are more UV resistant, while others won’t form bald spots if left sitting in one position for a long time. 

How to Install a New Trailer Tires? 

The first step to installing new trailer tires when the tire assembly is being kept is to put the car jack under the trailer to raise it. Lift up the trailer until the tire you want to replace is several inches above the ground.

Ensure that the jack itself is secure, because a trailer falling on you can cause severe injuries. Don’t let anyone or anything mess with the jack for the same reason.

Don’t use a jack that isn’t rated for the weight you’re trying to lift, because of the odds that it will fall on you.

Use a lug nut wrench

Use a lug nut wrench to remove all of the nuts that hold the tire in place. You sometimes need to remove these in a cross pattern so that the tire isn’t spinning endlessly. Set the nuts aside, since you’ll need them to secure the new tire in place.

Remove the Old tires

Remove the old tire from the trailer. You can remove air from the tires by pressing on the tire stem valve. At a minimum, it makes it easier to dispose of the deflated tires.

Remove the Tires themselves 

Remove the tires themselves from the wheel. You may need to lay the tire on its side and use a tire iron to pry the tire off the rim. Continue working with the tire until it is completely off the wheel.

Setup the New wheel

Put the new wheel on the tire, and pry the lips of the tire onto the edge of the trailer wheel. When the new tire is in place, use a compressor to inflate it. Only inflate the tires to the pressure level recommended by the manufacturer.

Another way to replace the tries is to buy a new tire and wheels in one, combined assembly. 

In this case, “break” the lugs with the lug wrench first. Then you jack up the trailer. Remove the old wheel assembly. Replace the trailer wheel assembly. Tighten the lug nuts to hold the new wheel assembly in place. 

How to Maintain Trailer Tires For Longer Life?

How can you maximize the life of your trailer tires? First and foremost, check air pressure regularly. Under inflation causes the outside of the tire to wear unusually fast, and you risk the tires overheating. That increases the risk of a blowout .

Check the Air pressure

Air pressure that is too high prevents the tires from having the whole tread in contact with the road. Tire pressure can change with the temperatures, and the air can leak out, too. This is why your tire pressure should be checked every month when the tires are “cold” or haven’t been used for hours. Add or release air as necessary.

Tire pressure should be maintained even when the tires are not in use or in storage.

Check the Valve stems

You can check the valve stems for leaks by pushing the stem to the left and the right. If you hear a hissing leak when you do this, all of the tire stem valves need to be replaced.

The side benefit of doing this is that you’ll prevent them from going flat faster than necessary.

Rotate Tires in an X pettern

The next way to extend the life of your tires is to rotate them. If you have a four wheel trailer, rotate the tires in an X pattern. The back passenger side tire then becomes the front driver side tire and so forth.

Apply UV protectant

Protect the tires from the sun whenever possible, since the UV light will break down the rubber faster. This could be done by parking the trailer in the shade. And it can be accomplished by applying UV protectant chemicals to the tires.

If all else fails, lean plywood against the tires to shade them, assuming there are no splinters or metal nails sticking out that damage them.

Don's store tires on grass for a long time

Don’t store your trailer tires on grass, since the wet ground exposes them to water to penetrate the tire surface. Long term contact with the ground without moving can harm trailer tires. It can even cause dry rot. This is obvious when you find fine cracks in the tread; these tires need to be replaced immediately so that you don’t experience a catastrophic failure on your next drive.

One solution is storing the trailer with plywood under the wheels. You can also jack up the trailer so the trailer and wheels don’t touch the ground. Use concrete blocks for a safe, stable support system. 

Depending on how much time you have, you could take the wheels off the trailer and store them indoors. 

The Simple Alternative

The simple alternative is driving the trailer around once in a while and parking it so the tires aren’t in the exact same location. This prevents flat spots from forming where the tires were sitting for a long period of time.

You can slow down that process by taking the load out of the trailer, since the more weight there is on the tires, the faster the flat spot will form. Never overload the trailer just because it is in storage. 

Time to replace tires

Replace tires when their tread depth is too low or their condition requires it. When you replace one tire, consider replacing its counterpart as well. This helps keep the wear and tear on the remaining tires constant. Have the trailer tires professionally balanced periodically, the more often the farther you drive them. 

Frequently asked questions About Trailer Tires ( FAQ's )

01. are trailer tires different from car tires .

Trailer tires differ from car tires in several ways. First is the thicker sidewall. They are made to carry a heavy load per tire without consideration for passenger comfort. This also means they won’t be able to handle the intense pressures generated by turning front wheel drive tires to pull a car forward.

The flexing sidewalls of a passenger vehicle tire will create untenable swaying in a trailer. That is outright dangerous in a vehicle with a high center of gravity like a travel trailer. Trailer tires are rated for higher internal air pressures than vehicle tires for the same reason. If the internal pressure for your standard car tire is 30-35 PSI, know that this is too low in a trailer tire.

Trailer tires are regularly rated to 50 and 60 PSI. You can help them maintain their air pressure by keeping the cap on the air valve stem. 

For What Trailer Ties are Designed?

They are designed to maximize traction so that your towed vehicle can stop as quickly as possible. The alternative is risking the trailer hitting the back of the car. The greater air pressure also helps reduce trailer sway. The best trailer tires make it easy to control the trailer through all road conditions.

Trailer tires also tend to have much sturdier construction, both in the sidewalls and the tread. Conversely, they tend to have a shorter run life than car tires. It isn’t uncommon to find trailer tires only good for a thousand miles and rated for only periodic short trips under heavy loads.

More Difference are There...

Another difference is speed ratings. Many trailer tires have maximum speed ratings well below those of passenger vehicles. While your car tires could safely travel 80 miles an hour assuming that’s within the speed limit, many trailer tires cannot be safely taken over 50 or 60 miles an hour.

The heavier the load, the more likely it is that the top safe speed is lower than the speed limit on the highway. You can buy more expensive trailer tires that combine higher speed ratings and load ratings, though this isn’t always a given. 

02. How much are trailer tires?

The cheapest trailer tires can be found for $30 each, though these are not going to be of very good quality. Good basic trailer tires will cost around $50 apiece. The highest quality tires still come in at less than $100 each. You can save money by buying trailer tires in pairs or groups of four. 

Radial trailer tires cost a little more than bias ply, but you tend to get more durable tires that last longer – up to three times longer. 

03. How long do trailer tires last? 

The usable life of trailer tires depends on the make and model. Radial tires cost more, but they last longer – several thousand miles longer. Trailer tires are sold with expected run life, the number of miles they’re considered safe to use.

Know that trailer tire life can be cut by overloading them or by being damaged. If the trailer tire tread has flat spots or areas of much thinner tread, the tire needs to be replaced regardless of its age. 

In all cases, trailer tires should be replaced after five years due to aging of the materials. If you see a network of fine cracks on the tread or the sidewall, it is breaking down on exposure to ultraviolet or developing dry rot.

Exposure to high heat or over-heating because it is under-inflated will speed up the aging of trailer tires. 

04. How to replace trailer tires like a professional?

Whether you hit a nail in the road, let tire pressures get too low or see cracks in the sidewall, you will eventually need to replace your trailer tires. The first thing to do is pull into a safe location. Try to change the tire on an even, flat surface away from the rush of oncoming cars. We’re going to assume you already have a spare tire that’s compatible with the rest of the tires on your trailer. 

Use a lug wrench in the proper size to break the lug nuts free. By doing this before you lift up the trailer, you’ll prevent the wheel constantly spinning on you as you loosen the lug nuts. However, you don’t want to take them all the way off yet.

Are you able to use a jack?

If you can, use a jack to lift up the trailer. If you can’t, you need to put solid objects in front of the flat tire and ideally another one so the trailer doesn’t move while you’re working. In this case, try to pull the tow vehicle forward enough to lift the flat or damaged tire onto the flat surface.

This will allow you to fit the jack under the trailer frame and lift up the trailer high enough to replace the trailer tire. Make sure the vehicle has an emergency brake on so it won’t pull the trailer on top of you while you work.

Remove the lug nuts the rest of the way. Store them where you will not lose them. Now you can remove the tire. Next, put the spare tire on the lug bolts. Screw them in manually part of the way so that they stay in place.

Use your jack to slowly

You can use the jack to slowly lower the tire until it barely touches the ground. Then use your tool to tighten the lug nuts the rest of the way. When the tire is in contact with the ground, you can tighten it as tight as necessary without having the wheel spin on you. Tighten the lug nuts in an alternating pattern, left to right, then up to down, instead of trying to do them in clockwise or counter-clockwise order.

Once the nuts are secure, lower the trailer until it supports the entire weight of the trailer. Check the lug nuts for tightness. If they’re good, you can remove the jack.

Store the tire securely until you can safely dispose of it. Don’t let it sit loose on a trailer where it could fly off and hit someone else’s vehicle. If you’ve had issues with uneven tire wear such as the left tires wearing down faster or the back tires wearing down, have the trailer itself checked by a professional. They can handle problems with the trailer axles, suspension or alignment. 

05. How to save trailer tires from dry rotting 

Dry rot is essentially the cracking of the sidewalls of the tire. One way to prevent this is to check the tire pressures at least once a month or at every major stop on a trip and maintaining your ideal tire pressure. That only addresses tire wall deterioration due to stress and strain. You can reduce the rate of environmental degradation by treating the tire pressures by spraying it with compounds that act like sunscreen. 

Storing tires so that they are on a board instead of the hot ground will reduce the thermal stress on the tires, too. Jacking tires off the ground is another approach, though this doesn’t shield the tires from UV rays that will eventually break down the rubber in the tires.

A simpler, chemical-free solution is literally shielding your tires. Park the RV in the shade. Store your RV in a garage instead of parked next to your house. Or you could lean boards against the tires to shade them from the sun.

Another option, especially if the tires will be in storage a long time, is to store them in a tire and wheel cover. These covers may even be provided with an RV or trailer to extend the life of your spare tire. 

Final Verdict

Trailer tires are designed for the specific demands of carrying the heavy loads we put in our trailers. The best trailer tires will properly fit your trailer and carry the loads you’re going to carry without introducing risks to yourself. The ideal trailer tires will last for years through all conditions and won’t cost a fortune.

Take the time to understand which trailer tires will fit your cargo trailer, boat trailer or RV trailer so you only buy what is right for you. Then invest the time and effort into maintaining these tires; you’ll appreciate not being the one stuck on the side of the road. 

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RV Tire Sizes & Basics Every RVer Should Know

Understanding rv tire sizes and maintaining your tires are of utmost importance for a safe trip. here are the basics every rver should know….

• 1 Understanding RV tire sizes and maintaining your tires are of utmost importance for a safe trip. Here are the basics every RVer should know…
• 2.1 Popular RV Tire Sizes
• 3.1 Load Index and Speed Rating
• 4.1 RV Weight
• 4.2 The Terrain
• 5 Tips for Maintaining RV Tires
• 6.1 Do Regular Tire Maintenance
• 6.2 Don't Forget Tire Rotation
• 6.3 Frequently Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage
• 6.4 Know When to Replace RV Tires
• 7 RV Tires: What Every RVer Needs to Know
• 8 RV Lifestyle Favorite Amazon Quick Links

Choosing the right size tire for your RV is critical for safety and performance. Understanding tire sizes, load ratings, and load capacity is key to choosing the right tire.

This blog post will provide RV owners with all the information they need to make the best RV tire choice for their vehicle. Plus, give you extra resources and information on properly maintaining them.

If you buy something through our links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep our lights on so we can continue to provide helpful resources for RVers. Read our  full affiliate disclosure here.

RV Tire Sizes & Types

There are different types of tires for different types of RVs. Class A, Class B, Class C, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes all require different types of tires to handle the weight, load capacity, and speed limits of each recreational vehicle.

These types include radial trailer tires, special trailer tires, light truck tires (LT), and commercial truck tires. Tire sizes are indicated by a code on the tire's sidewall that includes the tire's width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter.

Single tire or dual tire configurations also need different types of tires. RV owners should check their vehicle's tire size and load rating in the owner's manual or by consulting with a tire dealer to ensure they use the correct tire.

Popular RV Tire Sizes

RV tire sizes vary depending on the type of RV. Plus, some manufacturers use slightly different size designations.

Popular RV tire size equivalents :

• 235/80R22.5 = 245/75R22.5
• 255/80R22.5 = 265/75R22.5
• 275/80R22.5 = 295/75R22.5

As Goodyear explains, a HIGHER load range tire can always be substituted. For instance, a ST225/75R15 LR D Marathon substituted for ST225/75R15 LR C Marathon.

We know that looks like just a bunch of numbers with a letter thrown in, so let's break down what they mean…

Interpreting RV Tire Size

The tire size can be found on the tire itself. It's a string of numbers on the sidewall, interrupted by a backslash (i.e. XXX / XXXXXX). (Not to be confused with the DOT number , also found on the sidewall.)

Interpreting the tire size requires understanding what each number and letter means. Let's use the following example.

EXAMPLE: RV Tire Size 235/80R22.5

• 235 = the tire's width in millimeters
• 80 = the aspect ratio, which is the tire's height as a percentage of its width
• R indicates that the tire has a radial construction
• 22.5 = the diameter of the tire in inches

Load Index and Speed Rating

Load index and speed rating are two additional factors to consider when choosing the right tire for your RV. Load index indicates the maximum weight that the tire can carry, while speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate.

These ratings can also be found on the tire sidewall, usually next to the tire size or right beneath it. It's two or three numbers and a letter (##X or ###X).

The ## is the load index that translates into weight. The higher the tire's load index number, the greater its load-carrying capacity. You can view a tire load index chart on the Goodyear website.

The tire speed rating increases in alphabetical order, meaning the further the letter in the alphabet, the higher the maximum speed.

Importance of Choosing the Right Tire Size

Using the wrong size tire can lead to serious safety issues and even accidents. Choosing the right RV tire size is crucial to ensuring that your vehicle can handle the weight and load capacity of your RV.

In most cases, you simply replace tires with the existing tire size or greater. But, here are the factors to consider when choosing the RV tire size.

RV owners should consider the weight of their vehicle, including the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and maximum weight limit, when choosing the right tire size. Using a tire with a load capacity that is too low can result in tire blowouts, while using a tire with a load capacity that is too high can lead to a rough ride.

The Terrain

The terrain that the RV will be driving on is an important consideration when choosing the right tire size. RV owners should consider the type of terrain they will be driving on, including highways, city

Tips for Maintaining RV Tires

The following are tips and resources for maintaining your RV tires.

Ensure Proper Tire Inflation EVERY Travel Day

Proper tire inflation is crucial for safety and performance. RV owners should check their tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended level.

We suggest watching the above video and reading The Danger of Underinflated RV Tires .

Do Regular Tire Maintenance

Regular maintenance, including regular inspections, balancing, and alignment, can extend the life of RV tires and prevent premature wear.

Don't Forget Tire Rotation

Rotating tires can help ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan.

Frequently Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage

RV owners should inspect their tires regularly for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, punctures, or bulges.

Know When to Replace RV Tires

RV owners should replace their tires when they have reached their maximum age or have worn down to a minimum depth. Although, there are many cases when you'll want to replace them sooner. That's why we recommend reading When to Replace RV Tires (Advice from Real RVers) .

RV Tires: What Every RVer Needs to Know

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RV Tires are perhaps the most essential but overlooked parts of an RV. Failure to pay attention to the care and maintenance of your RV tires is a significant safety risk, and today we share the basics that every RVer needs to know.

Watch and see how you can prevent issues with certified RV Tech and RV Industry Consultant Chris Daugherty. Full details, tips, and more on our companion blog: https://rvlifestyle.com/rv-tires/

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Published on 2023-03-14

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

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RV Tip of the Day

Rv tips, news & information about rving lifestyle, tire speed rating for travel trailers.

While it is possible to buy Special Trailer (ST) tires with a tire speed rating of 80+ MPH, some  ST tires put on travel trailers and RV fifth wheels by manufacturers have a maximum tire speed rating of just 65 MPH.

Maximum Speed Rating, Maximum Tire Pressure, and Maximum Load Rating

You can drive faster than the maximum speed rating but in order to do that, you need to increase your cold inflation pressure by about 10 psi (without exceeding the maximum PSI stamped on the tire) for every 10 mph over 65 that you are driving, as well as devalue your load carrying capacity by 10%. In practice, this isn’t usually possible since manufacturers often supply tires that will handle the RV’s GVWR when inflated to maximum tire pressure.

If you’re maxing out the load rating of your trailer’s tires it is imperative that you keep your speed at or below the maximum rating. Driving faster will, at the least, shorten the life of the tires and may result in catastrophic failure on the road.

When buying replacement tires you may want to consider upgrading to a higher load range tire, just fas s safety margin, and you may be able to lower the tire pressure a little for a softer ride. Don’t forget to buy tires with a speed rating that suits your driving needs.

You may also be interested in these articles:

RV Tire Maintenance Tips

How to choose the right tires for your towable rv, share this post, related posts.

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33 responses to "tire speed rating for travel trailers".

There’s no need for a TT, or any RV for that matter, to be driving over 65 anywhere, anytime. What do you consider a “more reasonable speed”?

Of course that’s a matter of opinion rather than fact. There are many RVers who tow their travel trailer faster than 65 mph whether or not you believe it’s necessary. For example, in many states the maximum speed limit is 70 mph on major roads.

But you’re mostly missing the point. With many Large travel trailers and fifth wheels equipped with ST tires the load ratings are very close to the GVWR of the trailer so you’re always working the tires at their maximum capacity even if you do not exceed 65 mph. There simply isn’t much of a ‘safety’ factor built into a tire with a 65 mpg speed rating.

For example passenger car and light truck tires have maximum speed ratings as high as 120 mph even though the speed limit is much lower. That higher speed rating provides a big ‘safety’ factor and I believe is why we get many more miles out of our pickup, towed and motorhome tires than we can expect from our ST trailer tires.

I’ll concede that for most RVers with travel trailers all this is not an issue since they use their trailers for short vacations once or twice a year. But manufactures ought to make tires for those of us who are full time RVers and put thousands of miles on our rigs each year. And that all I’m asking for and I’m will to pay a premium for such a tire. I’m tired… no pun intended… of worrying about tire failures on tires with plenty of tread left on them simply because I can’t buy ST trailer tires with load and speed ratings sufficient for my needs.

you are totally correct. trailer tires are horrible, too much weight for underrated tires. also, tires set to much usually at full tire pressure, then go on that to week vacation and watch out, your asking for a blow out. ive had two, best advise, keep tires new or upgrade to a bigger rim with a higher load capacity tire.good luck.

I was traveling on the Interstate at Interstate speeds with a 32 foot Keystone RV trailer. The trailer has 2 tires on each side. The lead tire ruptured, split in half radially and blew the tread loose. The tread ripped apart and took out the weather and water protection guards above the wheel wheel and on either side before I could get to the side of the road. The steel belt wires grabbed the #8 green wire ground bonding wire and an unknown white #6 white wire and wrapped them around the wheel. They were pulled out of the power center and battery charger. Water pipes running to the front of the trailer where the kitchen is located were also damaged and the metal side of the trailer was pulled down. Quite a problem. I was able to get the siding refastened temporarily, get the tire changed and make it to our intended camping spot. All the tires were proprely inflated and had about 3,000 miles on them, lots of tread. My main mistake was not realizing the tire speed limit or need to over inflate the tires to travel 75 mph. I believe these are very good issues to comment about, some of us new trailer owners learn the hard way.

Keep in mind that you should not really over inflate the tires, that is to say never exceed the maximum pressure stamped on the side of the tire. Lighter trailers… under the maximum load capacity of the tires… can travel at speeds over 65mph if the tires are inflated to compensate for the faster speed. The problem with that is you’ll no doubt ‘crown’ the tires and cause uneven tire ware. Also keep in mind we are talking ST (special trailer) tires. LT (light truck) tires sometimes used on heavier trailers may have the same load ratings size for size as ST tires but will have a much higher maximum speed rating.

There is no dought in my mind that the Chinese have put one over on us. They are sending us defective st tires to the US. In fact, the last 2 ST Goodyear trailer tires I got from blowouts (in one month) at 60mph (52psi) and mfg defects were replaced by Goodyear with new recently manufactured Goodyear ST made in the USA! Imagine that.

I am pulling a 33′ bumber pull. I always worry about tire failure. Low milage on tires, with bunch of tread can go “BAM”!. I pull @ 56 mph. because of the ratings and, who the heck should be in a hurry camping. Nitrogen is all I use in all my tires. I keep the tires balanced too. I generly run a psi slightly over the lowest rating recommended but will bump up to almost max,if heavy, and a long pull is coming. I beleive in keeping the tires parked on cement when not in use, out of sunlight. When camping I take a minute and park on the plastic/wood decking 2×6 scraps I came across. I pull a dozen times a year. Seems age and sunlight is my worst enemy. Bigger trailers, buy a LT tire with stiff walls. Each stop feel the hubs for heat and inspect the tires, both with your eyes and hands. This will help with a peace of mind and help spot a problem. Get this,,,I don’t even carry a spare. One blows, 4 new is in order. The spare will age just like the ones on the ground. Better carry a 20/30 ton bottle jack if you are thinking about changing a tire.

After 3 blowouts on my Goodyear ST tires and $6000 damage to my undercarriage I am looking for a quality tire. I was not speeding, but 100 degree temp. was a contributing factor. The tires had less than 5000 miles on them.

i have only been rving for the past 11 months on a full time deal. I had my first blow out last month on the lead tire of my Jayco 5th wheel (34′). I have traveled in excess of 75 mph sometimes because of my distance. I was told by the tech at the tire place that I should not drive faster than 65 ever…… I don’t always drive that fast but have been known to kick it up several notches on those long empty country roads. I did not have a jack to change my tire so called someone who was 50 miles away and of course it was a sunday and it cost me $391 to have tire changed with my own spare.

Now lol lol I have ERS, for about $100 year i could have saved some bucks here. I have it on my truck but when tow rv no get coverage. Any whooo i guess for me I should drive like my dad….. well not that slow I guess…. Like anyway I am retired so why the heck I in a rush anywhoo?? Life is too short to rush it. Mahalo and see ya all……..

ps got five new tires even though only had 4,550 miles on factory tires. Dealer said company give you tires to tow only about 10,500 pounds and of course max weight of trailer is 10,500 so they setting you up to tow at the maximum anyway….

Look, IMO, the issue is not ST tires per se; it’s usage. If your trailer GAWR is 12,000 and you pull it loaded at all times at 14,000 are you gonna call your Momma and complain that it didn’t last and the manufacturer ripped you off? Stop driving your ST’s above 60 (allow a safety factor, nothing runs maxed out continuously forever)and you won’t have a problem, Chinamen or not.

What you say is true in that ST tires are what they are and we need to abide by their specifications. My argument would be that tire manufacturers need to build tires the better reflect the needs of today’s RVers regarding trailer sizes and highway speeds.

An alternative solution would be for RV manufacturers to install LT tires and wheels on larger travel trailers.

a friend of mine bought some second hand tires and ignored the fact that they had a very low speed limit (don’t know it by heart). He was rushing down the highway and boom one of them exploded. my point is BE CAREFUL!

If the ST tires are have so many blow out problem why don’t you run LT tires on the trailer? My Alpha Gold 5th wheel came with 235 85 r16 and they are the same as what is on my dually. I have not had one problem with the tires and they are 10 years old. they are the original tire from rv factory.

I would if I could. My trailer came with 15 inch wheels/tires and the axle spacing is set for that combination. The larger diameter 16 inch wheels/tires leave no clearance between the tandem axles. If we traveled extensively it may be worth the expense of having the axles moved apart and buying new wheels and tires. As is it is, we do not put a lot of miles on the rig so it is easier and cheaper to simply drive a little slower when we do hit the road.

I don’t know why Alpha put truck tires on my tripple axel but after reading other people haveing so many problems with the ST tires I can now understand why Alpha did put truck tires on the trailer. I know everyone says you shouldn’tnrun truck tires on a trailer but I think they might be wrong.

I had a blowout with my 12,000# Keystone Montana (37 ft) on I-81. I was doing 60-65 mph and the LT235/16 radial ripped out my entire RR skirt. I had checked the tires for correct pressure at 80psi several times, so believe heat may have been a factor. From what I’ve read, 65 mph is too fast for 5th wheels. At that speed you’re at the max allowable for the tires, no matter what you’re running. LT tires don’t have the strength for RVs but they will run faster, heating up to the break point. I’m going to run an ST tire with a G-rating if I can find one. Luckily, I do my own RV repair work, for the most part.

Big58driver I am a retierd truck driver and I can tell you from expereance that if you are running your tires at max tire PSI. It wont matter what type of tire you put on your trailer the out come will be the same. you would be better off if you would lower your PSI to 60 psi and you will find that after you travel down the road you tire psi will have increased between 7psi to 12 psi leaveing you a with a saefty factor in your favor. I have run my tripple axel alpha cold for 11 years with LT tires @ 60 psi and have neaver had any probblems. I am still running on the original tires.

Could not keep 15″ ST tires on my 30 ft. Dutchman. Nankang were horrible as were Chinese Goodyears. Goodyear made in US or Canada were problem free. Changed 3 blowouts roadside & quickly learned to recognize early signs of belt separation and replaced several more. Towed at 55 – 58 mph, tires were properly inflated running 80% of rated capacity.

Currently have a 33′ Cardinal that came w/ 16″ LT’s. I bought it used, changed the axles and put on Bridgestone all steel (belts and casing at $250 ea.). So far so good. Into 3rd camping season. Tire failure can happen with any kind and size, but I’d never tow with ST’s on anything weighing more than about 7,000 lbs.

Hi! I live in the UK and large trailers as used in the US are not allowed. Only 3.5 tons is allowed with the 50mm tow-ball and surge brakes. The trailer speed limit is 50 mph on normal roads and 60 mph on dual-carriageways. Eighteen-wheelers are all governed by law to 56 mph. This doesn’t slow them down very much as the more powerful trucks will do 56 mph uphill!

One of my trailers is a twin axle 3.5 ton that had highway rated Michelin X 600 x 9 tyres. These need 116 psi cold to get the weight rating but I could never get the 116 psi! Over here filling station air-lines are usually limited to 65 psi because of the Health & Safety at Work Act so high pressure tyres are a real pain. Getting 100 psi is not so bad but getting more than that can be an uphill struggle even with a Honda powered compressor (small leaks on the air snake couplings drop the pressure very quickly indeed even with 9cfm) The modern replacement for the 600 x 9 is the 155/70 R12 Special Trailer rated at 900 kilos but IMHO these are not much better than bicycle tyres. 4×4 wheels and tyres are better as some of these will handle two tonnes per wheel however these cannot be used on a “wheels underneath” type of trailer as they are much too big. The UK driving licences issued since 1997 limit drivers to a Gross Train Weight of 3.5T Only old timers like me have the old 7.5T licences. Many young people get into trouble with the police as unless they take additional driving tests they cannot tow a boat or caravan weighing more than 750 kilos or about 1500 pounds in old money. Allegedly there used to be trouble with people who had 7.5 ton licences on “grandfathers rights” driving large motor-homes in Germany as the Germans did not recognise the 7.5 tonne permission.

If anyone knows of a good replacement for the 6.00 x 9 please let me know. Thanks in advance from Davey.

tires are a problem when the trailer is not aligned to the coupler or kin-pin. i was going thru Goodyear G’s every 10 to 12K until i put Correct Track alignment system on my trailer. My tires run a lot cooler and i have 72K on a set of China Bombs and they still look like new. I do not exceed 65 MPH so check out the CT at camping world or your local dealers. I installed my self.

The first guy has got this, in ST 235/75 15 they make a load range d,e & f. Also in ST235/80 16 they make load range E,F & J. Each load range increase adds about 250-350 lbs more per tire max load. You need to go to a truck scale with your trailer loaded for the road and weight the trailer axels to see what your load really is. Then purchase a tire with a load range one or two ratings above your trailer weight and no more problems. Pickup tires in a LT245/75 16 E will haul 3060 lbs at 80psi. a ST235/80 16 needs 110 psi to haul 3200 lbs. Which tire do you think is stronger? 3060 @ 80psi naturally. Hard to find is a Lt245/75 16 load range F or G. but there out there.

I have been through the ST E rated nightmare on a 08 5th wheel. I had blowouts and damage to my rig. The tires were loaded with almost no safety factor. Summer driving and interstate speeds lead to blowouts. Switched to Goodyear G ‘s, end of problems.

I have a 28 ft mountaineer 5 th wheel that came with LT 235/85r16 tires. People tell me they are truck tires which are the same as my ford dually. Do you recommend replacing them with the same size tire?

I personally would recommend replacing with the same size if that is what the manufacturer originally installed. I’m not sure why you would be considering a different size but the primary concern when buying tires for any vehicle is weigh rating so consult your trusted tire dealer for specific advice. Trailer manufacturers began installing LT (Light Truck) tires as trailers got heavier.

ST (Special Trailer) tire makers have not kept up with the increase in trailer weights so it is difficult or impossible to find ST tires with sufficient weight ratings for lager trailers.

I wish my trailer had LT tires.

LT tires have a speed limit of 75 mph if they are on a towed vehicle. Doesn’t matter what the tire sidewall rating says — Y,Z, or whatever. If it is in a towing position the limit is still 75.

Greenball Towmaster makes load range E tires for 15 inch rims, max 80 PSI. I verified my rims could hack the PSI first as well. Swapped to these when my D rated tires blew. I picked them up through Costco and put them on a Toyhauler that runs 9K empty on the axles, max when I’ve got water, gas and quads, beer etc. So far so good. Mostly run 60MPH – I think that saved my exterior when the tire blew, but more likely the way it blew – perpendicular to the tread and became a big flapping snake. I also, move the trailer at least once a month to avoid flat spots if we’re not camping, and always have tire covers when parked to avoid sun damage. Put some 303 on the tires as well for added UV protection – I never use tire dressing for cars.

Around about 1995 I changed the 10 year old weather cracked bias ply tires on my travel trailer to St Radials. Since then I have replaced maybe 10 sets of tires on three trailers. ST radial tires are pure crap. I have tried maybe four different brands. Some better some worse but I am lucky of I get a full three years out of them.

Some were made in the USA some in china. None were any good.

I use to drive the speed limit 70 mph. That was with the bias ply tires. Since radial I have set the maximum speed to 60mph. That does not keep them from failing but most of the time I can detect the thread separation before they explode. Something needs to be done about TRAILER tires they are dangerous.

I10 has a 75 mph speed limit. Some traffic is pushing 80 mph or higher. I am going 60 mph. How safe is that?

For some of you full time RV’ers, there are Radial Trailer Tires available. These handle higher speeds as they’re more similar to automotive tires. They will last longer for the extended mile put on them by frequent travels. For the occasional travelers, stay with the ST’s because they last longer than Radials do when they sit 10 to 11 months of the year.

I have a small utility trailer (harborfreight foldable) and last year after driving about 700 miles the curbside tire was about to blow. Last section of our trip I drove a bit faster (up to 70mph) with a heavy trailer but still about 200lbs under its rating. A 700 mile trip doing just 55mph, what the tires are rated for, is just taking too long with stops etc. Because of the 55mph limit we took some two-way highways what made the actually 20 miles shorter than the fastest route. That is the main reason I too am looking into higher speed rated tires ir even upgrading to 13″ wheels (currently 12-4.80) The tire that was about to blow had maybe seen 2200 miles. (same trip year before and some local traffic) It looked like the tire had a bulge that was sanded down flat leaving just a little bit of rubber that was almost pinchable with your finger. Strange thing i didn’t see any threads.

I have been towing travel trailers for close to 30 years. I have had one tire blow-out and none in the last 12 years with my current 2005 Jayco 298BHS. I do practice two things constantly. One is weigh the truck and trailer on a local Cat scale. This gives me each axle weight as well as GCW. And keep my tires inflated at max sidewall pressure which in my case is 80 PSI. This trailer came with Load Range (LR) D tires which I changed out for LR E tires. I am currently running Maxxis ST tires. I tow between 67 and 69 MPH as this is the “sweet spot” for my Cummins diesel. Mine are balanced and I do rotate them around the trailer. I also purchase new tires at 5 years, keep them covered when not turning and parked on boards when not turning. No tires failures. To me it is common sense. Make sure you KNOW the ACTUAL weight of your trailer and purchase tires that exceed that amount and take care of the tires. Just because your pickup can pull your trailer at 75 MPH, doesn’t mean you should. As for John above towing 70 MPH with the small trailer with 12-4.80 tires – Sir, that is insane! Think of the tire speed those 12’s were running at 70 mph. Way too fast for those 12’s. Just my .02

Thank you for taking time to contribute to the coversation, Dave. Good information.

I read this entire thread and saw numerous untruths. I got to the end of the thread before I saw a guy who nailed it named Dave. Follow his advice and you’ll be fine. LT tire sidewalls are not made to take the side flex that happens when cornering large trailers but getting into ST versus LT is a lot of writing, instead here is a great article accurately detailing the debate: https://rvingwithmarkpolk.com/2012/11/08/trailer-towing-st-tires-vs-lt-tires/

I have pulled 32′-40′ fifth wheels for 21 years and have learned plenty along the way….the hard way. Like many, I have had horrendous blowouts and most ended up being my own fault due to under-inflation, excessive speed, old tires and improper storage.

This is basically repeating what Dave already said but it’s still good advice that can save you a ton of damage. Do as I say, not as I did lol

1. Run your ST tires at the max pressure stamped on the sidewall, most commonly 80PSI on large fifth wheels to reduce heat buildup that happens with a larger footprint of an underinflated tire. Mine are 95PSI on a LR F 12 ply because I upgraded my tires 2. Stay at 65 MPH or below to reduce heat build up. Heat (speed) kills ST tires 3. Replace tires before they reach 5 years of age, they usually age from the inside out and usually you won’t even know it’s deteriorated until it goes bang 4. Store on a vapor barrier such as wood or plastic to keep the interior steel belts from rusting from the inside out. Also contact with the ground pulls essential oils out of the rubber, prematurely aging the tires 5. Weigh your rig to get weights on each axle, pin weight and weight on your truck rear. I pay for 2 weight tickets. On the first I weigh the RV hooked up, that gives me trailer axles, truck rear loaded and truck steer. On the next weight, I weigh the truck detached with the entire RV dropped/detached on the 3rd pad. This will give trailer total weight and truck front and rear empty. I weigh with water tank and fuel full. 6. Upgrade to the next LR, I went from LR E to LR F 12 ply 3,960 pounds per tire. That’s 16K of capacity and there is only 10,500 lbs on the rear axles of my 14,000 lb trailer. 3,500 lbs on the pin

In summary, go 65MPH, inflate to max pressure, store on wood, weigh your trailer and upgrade your tires to higher LR. Never ever go over 5 years with your tires!

That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

Thanks for your input Rob. It is very much appreciated.

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RV Tires & Accessories

Last updated on: February 4, 2022

The 12 Best RV Tires For Motorhome, Travel Trailer Or Camper

by Chris Coleman

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Did you know that about one out of four RV’s exceed the weight limits of the RV tires used, as estimated by The Recreation Vehicle Safety Education Foundation? You might not think of this as a big deal, however, these RVs were not just overloaded by a few pounds, but by an average of over 900lbs. 

In addition, Bridgestone estimates that a quarter of all RV tires on the road are under-inflated to the point of being a serious safety risk. 

While your RV requires a lot of attention, RV tires are often overlooked or underestimated while they also are essential elements for a safe and enjoyable camping trip. Imagine having to deal with blowouts, accidents or tire damage while traveling offroad. Otherwise, using tires that are of low quality or not compatible with your particular RV will also pose safety troubles and reduce the tires’ lifespan.

Your job is to ensure proper inflation at all times and also to choose the best RV tires for your rig’s weight. There are many considerations when purchasing an RV tire. Furthermore, there are literally a ton of options in the market. So how can you pick the best camper tires for your vehicle?

Worry not. This A to Z guide will include everything you need to know the shop for the best RV tires: the important buying criteria, followed by a list of the very best options for different classes and types of RVs with raving RV tire reviews by seasoned RVers. At the end are replacement tips, maintenance tips and answers to common questions by fellow RVers. 

Our goal here is to provide you with the tried and true products and help you determine your priorities so that you can get the right set of RV tires with as little effort as possible.

Best RV Tires Comparison

1. goodyear unisteel g614 rv tire, 2. goodyear wrangler silent armor rv tire, 3. michelin xps rib rv tire, 4. boto tyres bt926 rv tire, 5. bridgestone duravis m700 hd rv tire, 6. dunlop grandtrek at20 rv tire, 7. freestar m-108 – best valued rv trailer tire, 8. trailer king st rv trailer tire, 9. carlisle radial trail hd rv trailer tire, 10. ecustomrim rv trailer tire on rim, 11. wheels express rv trailer tire, 12. maxxis m8008 rv trailer tire , 3. inflation pressure, 4. rv tire sidewall strength, 5. weather , replacing tires: when and how, 1. clean the tires regularly  , 2. proper inflation  , 3. invest in some tire covers, how long should rv tires last, how much does an rv tire cost:  a, b, c motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, which is better, bias or radial trailer tires, do you need to balance trailer tires, should rv tires be rotated, what tire pressure should you use for your rv, why do my trailer tires keep blowing out, what is the quickest way to decide if i need new tires for my rig, where should i get tires, is it possible to reuse my old tpms on new tires, how would i know if my new tires would be “new”, as in recently manufactured.

For ease of navigation, we have split the tires into two categories: motorhome tires and RV trailer tires :

1- Motorhome Tires (Best Tires for Class A, B, C RV)

Below are the best RV tires specifically designed for RVs of Class A, B and C. You will find each with specifications, highlighted features as well as both pros and cons, so that you can balance your requirements and get the best travel trailer tires for your money.

After this section, you will find a list of the best RV tires for travel trailer and fifth wheel.

Why it’s our top choice:

Engineered to handle everything that RVers could throw at it, Goodyear Unisteel G614 is among the best RV tires in terms of all-around performance. Built to the highest quality, the Goodyear tire is good at tackling demanding operations without fail and consistently delivers satisfaction for a long time on the road. 

As a result, a lot of travel trailer tire reviews consider the tire to be one of the best travel trailer tires to buy to enjoy a smooth ride regardless of the terrain. 

Featuring a combination of shallow tread patterns and improved rib stability, this Goodyear tire keeps its temperature firmly under control as you move around. In addition, it’s easy to spot the wear pattern on the tire so you could determine if a replacement is necessary. 

Regarding traction, the use of edge sipes, rubber compounds and lateral grooves allow the tire to perform admirably in wet weather.       

Regardless of the load, Goodyear Unisteel G614 must be inflated up to 110 PSI to maintain optimal performance. Maintain this pressure level if you wish to receive all the benefits of using an all-steel tire. 

Despite the fact that it’s on the heavy side, G614 is still one of the best RV travel trailer tires regarding ease of installation.

• Excellent traction 
• Wear quite evenly 
• Well built and robust 
• Pretty high acquisition cost 
• Some people complain about getting old stocks 

Why it’s An Editor’s Choice :

Featuring a noise-canceling design, Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor is one of the best camper tires in terms of quietness. For RVers that want to enjoy a silent ride outdoors, this tire is a wise investment.

Moreover, thanks to the fairly low rolling resistance, the tire offers considerable boosts to the fuel efficiency of your rig.  You should be able to extend the range of your RV and reduce the overall fuel expense. The high manufacturing standard allows this model to take on most road conditions.  

With the presence of quality tread compound, this Goodyear tire possesses superb traction which makes it suitable for an assortment of towing/hauling applications. 

Considering the fact that the tire effectively resists punctures in addition to cuts, it will last you quite some time on the road. This tire also packs a rim protector so you don’t have to worry about curb damage on the field. 

A huge plus is that the tire comes at a highly affordable price, so you could obtain replacements without breaking the bank. 

In terms of post-purchase support, Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor is accompanied by a standard 5-year manufacturer warranty that covers all workmanship and material defects. This speaks volumes about the reliability of this RV tire.

• Long-lasting
• Silent operation
• Mediocre in the snow 
• Somewhat limited size options 

Why This An Editor’s Choice :

Michelin is well known for their ability to deliver high-quality automotive tires and XPS RIB is a prime example. Packing rugged tread and tough steel casing, the Michelin tire is able to last a long time in regular use.

Additionally, the tire is produced in multiple sizes so it’s easy to find a size that matches the characteristics of your RV. Considering the fact that the tire comes along a tread wear indicator, you can instantly tell when you need to get replacements. 

Made with low rolling resistance, this Michelin tire tends to substantially improve the fuel economy of most conventional recreational vehicles, which will save you a ton of money in the long term. The well-engineered tread pattern permits the tire to navigate all sorts of outdoor terrains. 

If you want straightforward, hassle-free tires, it’s worth noting that the tire receives favorable remarks from experts and veteran RVers due to its practicality. Assuming that you get the size right, these tires will keep you happy on the road for many years to come.

Unlike conventional tires nowadays, Michelin XPS RIB is designed from the beginning to allow retreading once it’s worn out. Thanks to this, you should be able to cut down your tire expense, minimize waste and reduce greenhouse emissions if you go with XPS RIB.

• A long wear life 
• Come at various sizes 
• Commendable stability and traction  
• A bit pricey 
• Unsuitable for snow/ice operations

Why We Love It:

Designed for short as well as long haul operation, Boto Tyres BT926 arguably boasts the most balanced ratings among motorhome tires these days.

Thanks to the quiet tread, this Boto Tyres model produces negligible noise. Being a high-speed design, the tire is a nice choice for campers that need to go up and down the highways regularly. The tire also effectively takes care of heat build-up which results in a fairly long lifespan.  

Since the grooves of the Boto Tyres tire excel at repelling water upon contact, its performance in downpours is admirable. As a 5-rib tire, BT926 is capable of delivering decent mileage in most cases so it’s pretty cost-effective. Its outstanding versatility permits the tire to support conventional RV trips in the great outdoors.

As it’s manufactured to match drive wheels and steering wheels, Boto Tyres BT926 works well in every configuration imaginable. The performance of the tire remains consistent regardless of setting so feel free to mount BT926 as you see fit.

• Quiet in use
• Offer plenty of mileage 
• Handle wet roads expertly 
• Kind of cumbersome 

You often go off-road? If that is so, you have to include Bridgestone Duravis M700 HD in your checklist. Made to withstand challenging grounds, the Bridgestone tire is one of the best RV tires in the all-terrain category. 

Boasting a rather impressive tread thickness of half an inch, the tire delivers excellent traction in wet, dry and windy conditions. The aggressive symmetrical design of the tread also allows the tire to tackle light snow. Thanks to the notched shoulder as well as tread block, you would enjoy proper handling for most of the time.

As this tire from Bridgestone is available in multiple sizes, RV owners could easily select one that suits their vehicle by consulting the manufacturer’s size chart. 

Regarding resistance, the tire possesses twin steel belts and spirally wound nylon which considerably reduce the risk of punctures or bruises. In most cases, the tire is able to stay intact for many years outdoors so you don’t have to look for replacements too soon.

Note that because Bridgestone Duravis M700 HD comes without wheels, you will have to make additional purchases but after that, everything is straightforward. Most of the time, you could get at least 50.000 miles out of M700 HD. Still, it’s essential that you check the tread wear indicator every now and then to know when to replace your tires.

• Highly adaptable 
• Nice price 
• No good in heavy snow
• No wheel included 

Being an all-season tire, Dunlop Grandtrek AT20 is viewed favorably by RVers that like to travel all year round. This Dunlop tire guarantees persistent traction in an assortment of weather which means it offers constant performance any time of the year. 

Thanks to the incorporation of VersaLoad technology, the tire remains stable in various load settings. Using variable pitch tread blocks, the treat produces negligible noise so you would be able to enjoy a quiet ride on the road.

With the presence of circumferential grooves, the Dunlop tire expels water effectively. To improve handling characteristics in the snow, it features specialized sipes in its construction. All in all, the traction of the tire as a whole is superb compared to the average RV tires currently on the market. 

Since the tire boasts a fairly long wear life, you could save a good deal of money and time getting replacements.  Once you do, the tire is pretty budget-friendly, so this is nothing to worry about.

Boasting comparatively low rolling resistance, Dunlop Grandtrek AT20 offers good fuel efficiency for your recreational vehicle. To conveniently let you know when it is time for replacement, Grandtrek AT20  features a tread wear indicator.

• Deal with elements well 
• Aggressive tread pattern 
• Offer great traction in most conditions 
• Mediocre in curve driving  
• Occasional tire blowouts  

Related: Best Air Compressors For RV

RV Trailer Tires (Best Tires for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel)

Travel trailers and fifth wheels are a whole lot different from RVs of Class A, B and C. Most often, they are tailored with specific tires, so it is best you grab a tire designed for your travel trailer or fifth wheel.

Why This Is The Best:

For budget-minded RVers, Freestar M-108 is among the best RV tires in terms of affordability. Compared to other options on the market, this tire from Freestar is highly affordable and offers relatively good value for money. 

While its acquisition cost is quite low, the tire makes no compromise in quality: it will last you a long time in use. For RV owners that often push a lot of miles, M-108 would prove to be an economical choice.

Featuring deep grooves, the Freestar tire truly excels at repelling water. Moreover, the traction remains optimal in wet conditions. 

Thanks to the use of an innovative cooling layout, the tire is generally safe from heat built up during operation. As the tire is resistant to UV rays, rot is less than an issue in most cases.

Regarding setup, Freestar M-108 is pretty adaptable. That being said, it would be wise for you to use some spacers to spread the beads apart before installation.

• Admirable grip
• Strong rubber compound 
• Decent value for the price 
• Bulging sidewall 
• Barely acceptable quality control

An excellent fit for RVers that need tires for 5th wheel trailers , Trailer King ST is famous for its straightforward, no-nonsense construction. Packing a center groove, the Trailer King tire provides a smooth ride in all kinds of outdoor weather.

As the tire employs a much-improved shoulder design, it’s able to dissipate heat caused by friction well while coming into contact with asphalt. Thanks to this advanced feature, its lifespan is admirable which means you will not have to worry too often about replacements. 

Being a strength-focus model, this tire is capable of withstanding the harshest driving conditions. Overall, the tire’s stability proves to be outstanding on wet as well as dry ground across all seasons. 

For traction, the tire provides tight grips so sharp turns would be smoother like never before. The tire comes in a number of sizes which means you can easily select one that suits your rig.

Regarding post-purchase support, RVers that purchase Trailer King ST would get a nationwide warranty. You can receive assistance everywhere you go, which is indeed a major plus when you’re on the road.

• Reasonable price
• Last a long time
• Rugged and stable
• Mat develop bulges on the sidewall  
• Wear out fast if regularly subjected to heavy loads

Why This An Editor’s Choice:

Being compatible with a wide range of recreational vehicles nowadays, Carlisle Radial Trail HD is the tire that every RVer would appreciate. Though it might seem unexceptional at first, it’s easily one of the best RV tires available for purchase in terms of adaptability. 

With this tire, you would be able to get to your destination without a hitch assuming that you don’t overload your rig by mistake. Its quiet operation is also a major plus.

Boasting a well-designed tread pattern, the Carlisle tire wears evenly over time which ensures consistent performance and avoids premature wear. Its rubber compound tackles heat at high speeds admirably, which helps maximizing its lifespan in most RV configurations. 

The tire’s integrated weather protection handles common outdoor elements with ease. Thanks to its low rolling resistance, the tire offers considerable improvements to your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. 

To facilitate installation, Carlisle Radial Trail HD features a catchy mark that indicates the ideal location for the valve stem. As a result, it’s a breeze for RVers to optimize the tires balance before hitting the road.

• Constant performance
• Guarantee even wear 
• Limited operation noise 
• No wheel comes with the tire 
• Installation is difficult in some cases  

Why We Love it:

With an all-steel construction, eCustomRim Trailer Tire On Rim can take on all sorts of outdoor challenges. For those that prioritize durability, the eCustomRim tire will be an excellent purchase. 

Available in a wide range of sizes for virtually every conceivable RV setup, you don’t need to make dimensions concessions here. 

Unlike other options on the market, this tire from eCustomRim comes with a rim which means it’s good to go on arrival. The convenient 5-lug pattern of the rim makes sure that you could fit the tire to your rig in just a blink of an eye. 

Thanks to the well-engineered layout, you would enjoy a smooth driving experience. In case you get the tire as a spare, the presence of the rim shall keep the rubber from wobbling, even on rough terrain.

Thanks to its forgiving characteristics, eCustomRim Trailer Tire could be installed with great ease.While the balancing process might take some time and effort, the rim-tire combination is going to work smoothly nonetheless.

• Rim included 
• Fairly smooth operation 
• The price is reasonable 
• Fluctuating lifespan 
• Unequal wear 

Being a product of a top of line manufacturer, Wheels Express Trailer Tire proves to be highly effective in multiple modern-day RV configurations.  Made to work with various applications including stick trailer and campers, the tire could meet the expectation of most RVers. 

In addition, its high-quality manufacturing standard results in a long lifespan in conventional operations. 

Packing double polyester cords as well as steel belt, this tire from Wheels Express is resilient to outdoor elements. The construction with premium grade material that minimizes corrosion.    

Since the tire is a radial unit, it’s capable of providing a comfortable ride across different terrains. The load weight is also adequate to support the average towing operation. Featuring a prominent tread wear indicator, Wheels Express Trailer Tire permits RVers to make timely replacements. 

In general, if you would like a tire that offers safety and good value for money, consider this Wheels Express tire.

• Come with wheel
• Strong and solid 
• Guarantee smooth rife
• The price tag is slightly high 
• Mostly good for trailers 

Possessing everything that RVers need in a tire, Maxxis M8008 Trailer Tire is considered to be on a different level. Thanks to the incorporation of first-tier tread compound, this Maxxis tire features low rolling resistance which enhances a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. In addition, the high-grade rubber also gives the tire a rather long tread life in most operations. 

In order to ensure that the Maxxis tire performs to its maximum capabilities outdoors for years to come, the manufacturer introduces double steel belts into its construction. 

Furthermore, the tire employs a nifty shock absorption mechanism that handles vibrations effectively and efficiently. That is why its  overall stability on the road is outstanding even if subjected to heavy loads. 

As Maxxis M8008 Trailer Tire offers these top of class features, it’s obvious that it does not come cheap. However, seasoned RVers can testify that it is well worth its price tag. After all, the tire is a super solid choice that could match the needs of most full-time RVers.

• Absorb shock pretty well
• The tread life is long 
• Save money on gas
• The cost is a bit high  
• Some people receive old stocks

Choosing The Best RV Tires: The Criteria

Although different RVers may have different needs and preferences, paying attention to the following important buying criteria will surely help you land a more than satisfying set of RV tires.

RV manufacturers design their vehicles with specific tire sizes. If you fit tires of the wrong size to your recreational vehicle, it’s just a matter of time before disaster strikes. 

To ensure road safety, consider size as your top priority while shopping for the best RV tires. Fortunately, sometimes you’ll be able to easily determine the best RV tires size just by consulting the owner’s manual. It contains all important maintenance information for your specific RV.

In the owner’s manual, you may find recommendations for tire size and other factors to help narrow your search. Alternatively,  any RV owner should always consult the “Vehicle Manufacturers Data Placard” attached to the vehicle when making tire sizing decisions. 

RV tire size chart

Another source of information is the size chart from RV tires manufacturers. Each tire brand typically has a chart that will reveal the sizes and variations available. For example, below are common RV tires sizes for different classes of RV.

To read the size chart, you need to understand the specifications found on a tire’s sidewall. For example: LT315/80R22.5.

“LT” refers to “Light Truck”, indicating that the tire is for RVs of Class A, B and C. If you’re driving a Class A, B or C motorhome, you’ll need Light Truck ( LT ) tires. LT tires are made for vehicles that weigh significantly more than a small ( 3/4-ton ) pickup truck.

If you drive a travel trailer or fifth wheel, you will want to look for tires with “ST” on its sidewall, which stands for “Special Trailer”, rather than”LT”. ST tires are specially built to handle the extra weight of a travel trailer. These tires have a stronger sidewall than other car or truck tires.

The remaining specification “315/80R22.5” refers to the sizing measurements of the tire. This part is what you will find in the tire manufacturer’s size chart. 

How to read the size chart: 

• Width : The first 3 numbers indicate the tire width measured in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. 
• Aspect Ratio : The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio. It is the ratio of the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. For example, in a size 315/80R22.5 tire, “80” means that the height is equal to 80% of the tire’s width. The bigger the aspect ratio, the bigger the tire’s sidewall will be.
• Construction : The letter “R” in a tire size stands for Radial, which means the layers run radially across the tire.
• Wheel Diameter: The number after the letter R Is the size of the wheel measured from one end to the other. It tells us the size of the wheel that the tire is intended to fit. A size 315/80R22.5 tire is made for a wheel with a 22.5″ diameter.

Virtually every tire for RV these kinds of days come with ratings, including for weight, and speed. Considering the ratings ensures that you don’t end up with RV tires that can’t take the stress from your travels. The weight that is carried can wreak havoc on an inappropriately chosen tire.

Load rating

This indicates the maximum load that the tire can support when properly inflated. You’ll also find the maximum load on the tire sidewall, in both pounds and kilograms. 

The weight ratings should receive top priority when shopping for the best RV tires. This matter poses the biggest risk to you while traveling in your RV. 

If you don’t purchase RV tires with adequate maximum weight and load ratings, their lifespan will be significantly reduced and worse. Having to carry a heavier load than designed for will wear out the component faster, causing damage. Worse, they can lead to safety issues on the road, including blowout and premature failure.

To find the ideal weight rating for the tires, divide the fully loaded weight of your rig by four. Remember to include the multitude of stuff you may be carrying such as clothes, food, gears and equipment. Note that when you’re consulting the RV owner’s manual to find the right tire, it typically fails to consider these extra weight.

In addition to including this extra weight in your assessment of the best RV tires , a safe practice is to choose a model of tire that exceeds the limits and ratings you need. 

Speed rating

The speed rating tells you the maximum speed the tires can withstand and facilitate. In most cases, a tire’s speed ratings are matched to the top speed capability of the vehicle. For example, a tire with an H-speed rating has a maximum speed capability of 130 mph or 210 km/h. 

When considering tires speed rating, think about the nature of your travel. If you have to drive on highways all the time, pick high-speed ratings. On the other hand, if you mostly go through country roads, it’s fine to settle for low-speed rating. 

You can check the maximum tire pressure allowed for a tire on its sidewall. It will be stated as, for instance: Max Load 236 kg ( 520 lbs ) at 290 kPa ( 42 PSI ). “42 PSI” is the maximum tire pressure.

To make sure you don’t go above this number, use an inflation gauge. It is the only instrument that can correctly check your tire pressure. 

An under-inflated tire cannot bear its load properly and will wear out faster due to larger contacts with the road surface. Meanwhile, an over-inflated tire will be more prone to damage, for example when they hit the pothole at high speeds.

Aside from sizes, weight ratings and speed ratings, it is important to look into the sidewall strength of your RV tires. In many cases this term is referred to as Load Range.

Many seasoned RV owners make the choice to use light truck tires on their RVs as they traditionally offer better sidewall strength. Since light truck tires are built to bear a lot more of a beating than a regular RV tire, they can be  great substitutes for your RV.

• Related: Best Portable 12V Air Compressors

In the case you only go out in months with good weather then standard tires would be more than enough for most of the time. Nonetheless, if you wish to travel around the year, it’s strongly recommended that you pick all-seasons RV tires. 

Often drive in the rain? Then you need to get tires optimized for wet conditions with purpose design thread patterns. Drop by forums of RV owners in order to determine the best travel trailer tires to buy in specific weather.    

Similar to other purchases, it’s a good idea for you to get all the tires for your recreational vehicle straight from well-known manufacturers. Considering the highly competitive nature of the industry, a brand only becomes credible if it earns the trust of customers through quality products and responsive service. 

Therefore, products from popular brands, particularly those with high RV tires ratings, are generally safer bets compared to those from lesser-known names. 

If you want tried and true RV tires with great post-purchase support, consider the following prestigious household names: Carlisle, Goodyear, Michelin, Trailer King, Dunlop, Gladiator, Boto Tyres.

Owning and running an RV is a substantial investment, which is why every single expense should be made wisely for what will last you a long time on the road and offer you the best camping experience. 

Thanks to the wave of the RV life in the last decades, the market for RV tires offer a wide range where you will be able to grab a product that matches your budget as well as your requirements. There is something for every RVer, from the more expensive, well-round, high quality tires to the more affordable, yet still offers great value for money.

That being said, it’s widely advised that you stay away from dirt cheap tires. The old saying stays true: You get what you pay for. And your safety is not something you should compromise for price.

Remember that even the best RV tires will eventually fail, it’s just a matter of time. To keep your RV in prime condition and minimize the risk of accident, it’s of utmost importance to know when to change tires. 

On average, you should replace the tires around every 3 – 5 years. Of course, the actual lifespan of the tires varies from case to case as factors like weather, road conditions and frequency of travel come into play. But regardless of what happens on the road, it’s essential that you replace the tires before the 5-year mark. 

So how can you tell if a tire of your rig needs to be replaced? Check the tires now and then for signs of wear, tear and damage. Usually, you must keep an eye out for signs including: 

• Cracks on the sidewall 
• Exposure of internal components 
• Shallow tread depth 
• Deterioration of handling characteristics 

Once one or more of these signs show up, it’s strongly recommended that you replace the tires before a structural failure takes place. Tire blowouts not only cause substantial damage to the vehicle but they also put everyone on it in great danger. Hence, don’t be stingy here as safety is by all accounts the top priority. 

Regarding replacement, in the long run, it’s a good idea that you learn how to replace the tires by yourself. You only need 2 things: a jack and a lug wrench. 

First, you should park your rig in a flat and level surface. Next, using the jack, raise the vehicle high enough so the wheels can turn freely. Remove the nuts using the lug wrench, then detach the old tire and get the new tire in place. Finally, re-tighten the lug nuts, lower the jack and you’re ready to roll. 

Tires Maintenance: Tips and Tricks

While RV tires indeed have limited lifespans, there are many tips you can try so that they will last you a good many years on the road. Get the most out of your RV tires with pro tips below. 

Over time, road grimes, brake dust and dirt would build up on the tires which will eat through the rubber. It’s a must that you clean the tires of your rig every now and then to minimize the risk of premature wear and damage. 

In most cases, a combination of mild soap and warm water shall be more than enough to keep the tires in top condition. Still, refrain from putting alcohol cleaners on the tires since they may degrade the material. Allow the tires to dry before you hit the road.

Overall, under-inflation is considered to be one of the major causes of disastrous tire failures. Under-inflation will cause uneven weight distribution, thus affecting handling and the vehicle’s balance. 

Therefore, it’s essential that you keep the tires of your recreational vehicles properly inflated , but not over-inflated. Over-inflation will likely cause damage on rough roads. 

Needless to say, you must avoid judging the pressure through eye inspection. You could check the exact pressure of the tires using a variety of tools. Make sure to not go over the maximum tire pressure specified on the tire’s sidewall.

Generally speaking, to be on the safe side, make it a habit to check the tire pressure before heading out. As a general rule of thumb, the pressure of the tires rise in hot weather and drop in cold weather. 

Besides regularly checking on the conditions of your tires, it is highly recommended to equip a tire pressure monitoring system for your RV. This device warns RV drivers real-time about the unsafe tire conditions: any tire becoming under-inflated, sudden changes in tire pressure and temperature…

In the case you often have to park your rig out in the open, it would be best for you to keep tire covers on hand. 

The covers shall protect the tires from UV rays, fluctuating temperatures, moisture and other nuisance. Nowadays, you only have to spend a few dozen dollars to secure quality tire covers. Compared to the substantial cost of replacement tires, RV tire covers are cost-effective investments.

FAQs About RV Tires

A quality set of RV tires, if loaded and maintained properly, might well last some 80,000 to 120,000 miles. Imagine if you’re driving daily and as much as a commercial truck, the tires would need to be replaced every two years. With the average non-full time RV driving 5,000 miles per year, a good set of tires can last close to 20 years. Check the full answer here .

Costs can vary per class because of weight differences, and heavier RVs are going to need stronger, more expensive tires. The average cost of Class A motorhome tires range from about $225.

Some best sellers: + Deestone D902 8.75-16.5 tire: ~$86 + Firestone Transforce HT Highway 235/75R15 tire: ~$125 + Cooper Roadmaster RM253 245/70R19.5 tire: ~$237 + Michelin XRV 225/70R19.5 tire: ~$306 + Goodyear G670 RV ULT LT225/70R19.5 tire: ~$376

The average cost of Class B motorhome tires range from about $275. Some best sellers: + Mastercraft Courser LTR Highway LT225/75R16 tire: ~$103 + Power King LT8.75-16.5 Super Highway LT tire: ~$114 + Michelin XPS Rib LT225/75R16 tire: ~$235 + Hankook AH11 245/70R19.5 tire: ~$293 + Goodyear G670 RV MRT 245/75R22.5 tire: ~$636

The average cost of Class C motorhome tires is about $110. Some best sellers: + Power King Towmax STR 35/85R16 tire: ~$90 + Goodyear Marathon Radial ST225/75R15 tire: ~$100 + Continental VancoFourSeason 195/70R15C tire: ~$11 + Michelin Energy Saver LTX 265/60R18 tire: ~$119 + Hankook Dynapro HT RH12 235/85R16 tire: ~$123

The average cost of a travel trailer and fifth wheel tires is about $170. Some best sellers: + Carlisle Radial Trail HD radial trailer tire: ~$75 + Sailun S637 radial trailer tire: ~$160 + Maxxis M8008 ST radial trailer tire: ~$200 + Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST radial trailer tire: ~$320

Radial tires have steel belts that run at a 90-degree angle, allowing them to get better traction and increased stability. The flexible sidewall enables less rolling resistance, giving these tires a longer lifespan and also enhance fuel economy.

Bias tires are less expensive because they have nylon belts that run at a 30- to 45-degree angle. Their sidewalls are stronger, and they can handle more significant weight loads than radial tires, but they don’t last as long.

In general, bias tires should only be used by RV owners with fifth-wheel or travel trailers. Note that even in that case, they are only for RV owners who take short trips on rough back roads. Bias tires are not suitable for long trips on the highways.

Since the primary duty of a trailer tire is supporting a vertical load, rather than gripping a passenger car through turns, steering and cornering are less of a concern on a trailer tire. Therefore, trailer tires do not have to be dynamically balanced like passenger car tires. 

Tire rotation will prolong the life of your RV tires by evening out wear, thus will also enhance safety while driving. The Rubber Manufacturers Association recommends that you have the tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.

Driving your RV with the wrong level of tire pressure can affect your stability, handling and gas mileage.

Many RVers get confused when the recommended pressure on their RV’s data-plates differ from the “max cold pressure” on a tire’s sidewall. Follow the RV’s data-plates, as the “max cold pressure” refers to the highest level of pressure that the tire can withstand without damage, not a safe operational pressure. 

Manufacturers provide data-plates in all RVs doors that include “original tire size” and recommended “cold tire inflation pressure” based on the RV’s maximum load. It is best to grab the same tires as the “original tire” provided by the manufacturer and inflate your tire according to the recommended pressure.

In the case that you put on tires of a different size or load rating to the original tires provided by the manufacturer, contact the manufacturer so they can consult you on the right inflation point.

A lot of trailer tire blowouts are a result of heat build up. The two most common culprits are overloading the trailer and/or under-inflated tires.  If you’re driving a travel trailer, use the right tires, which are the “Special Trailer” tires, for these heavy vehicles. Do not use “Light Truck” or regular passenger vehicle tires.

The tread depth of new RV tires tends to be between 10/32 and 11/32 inches though some products have deeper tread depth. Once the tread depth reduces to 2/32 inches, it’s time to look for new tires.   You could check if your tires have reached that particular threshold through the penny test. All you have to do is to place a penny right into the tread ribs ( the raised portions of the tread ) while keeping the Lincoln’s head pointed straight down.  Now you need to check the visibility of the Lincoln’s head on the penny. 

– If his head is partially obscured then your tires remain usable – If his head is completely exposed then your tires must be replaced at once

RVers have lots of options available: dealerships, tire stores, or online. Each choice comes with its own pros and cons though. The most reliable option is to go back to the dealer that sold you your rig to get original tires. That is also the most expensive method to acquire tires. 

In the case you want more affordable options, head to the local tire stores but beware that the staff there often prefer to make quick sales than answering tough questions. Finally, for convenience sake, you could order tires online but you have to take care of everything else by yourself.

It depends on the design of the system as well as its installation process. Most technicians reuse the sensors but if the integrated valve stems become corroded, they may break without care.

Generally speaking, stores indeed order new stocks of tires periodically but sometimes, certain tires remain on the shelves for years. Needless to say, RVers tend to frown at the idea of getting “new” camper tires that happen to be a few years old since age and rubber don’t mix.  Fortunately, you should be able to tell recently manufactured tires from ancients once just by checking the manufacturing dates: the four-digit number on the sidewall. The first two digits indicate the week and the last two show the year. For example:  “0514” translate to “Manufactured in the 5th week of 2014”

Also in  RV Tires & Accessories , we’re providing thorough reviews and buying guides which help RV campers have peace of minds choosing the best RV tires , best 12V air compressor ,  best air compressor for RV tires , best brake pads for towing , best RV leveling blocks , best RV jack pads  on the market today.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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I have 4 of Goodyear tires on my fifth wheel. The specialty G614 RST trailer tire is noticeably heavier and better built than the tires from China. These tires were balanced, kept inflated per Goodyear weight table guidance, and used in conjunction with a tire pressure monitoring system. They’ve provided a lot of peace of mind crossing the country several times on a heavy 5th wheel trailer. Although I balanced, inflated and monitored my OEM China made tires, they repeatedly failed. These tires are not only lasting so much longer than the ones made in China, they are not blowing out and damaging my trailer causing lost time and insurance deductibles to make the repairs. So please get rid of your Chinese tires and buy reliable tires for your RV, trailer for your safety on road. It’s more pricey but worth every penny.

After blowouts and thrown tread on a fifth wheel I bought these with 110 psi rated wheels. I run 90psi and used them for 5 years. No issues, and still good tread grooves. Incidentally they can be regrooved if your tread is getting thin. I ordered a new fifth wheel in 2011, and had them put these tires and 110psi wheels on it. 8 years on them now and still look great. I am replacing them just because of the years, and a Alaska trip this summer. I have had RV’s for 38 years. The Goodyear Unisteel G614 is the best, never had a failure. Great RV tire! Great price! Highly recommend. Thanks for the great reviews.

Bought my first set of Carlisle Radial tires three years ago, in that time I put about 18k on them. They’ve been routinely loaded near max, hit many potholes, terrible roads and mostly abused with no complaints and still have good tread. Just bought another set to replace them since three years is my max with trailer tires. Excellent tires, very durable.

Have a class 3 with 3newer Goodyear ht on driver side and the 3 original Michelin’s on the passenger side. I had the left tires blow , now are the Goodyear’s, after hitting some metal on the road so replaced all 3. The original 3 tires are the original Michelin’s .

My concern is the two front cab tires are one of each brand and the driver rears are the 2 Goodyear’s and the passengers rear 2 are original Michelin’s

I was planning to match the front two with a new Goodyear of same style and wear or just put 2 new on the front wheels,,,,,

Any recommendations ? My biggest question is the tire tread mix and also if the double rears are less important to match than the fronts. Remember the Goodyear’s are HT and are new with less than 3k miles. The Michelin’s have 17k miles but the rears do not show much ware..

Thanks for feedback. We will be traveling about 3000 miles in Jan 2021 so want to make a d Safe decision foe a safe and smooth ride. The empty weight is 14,500lbs and can add another 3k for water, equipment, passengers and gas

I love its ability to offer peak performance without sacrificing the ride quality of this Boto Tyres Radial Tire. It offers me stability and complete control at an almost silent noise level. These tires have a 5-rib design that makes them useful by providing good mileage for both short and long-distance applications and performing well on highways.

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RV 101® / RV Education 101®

Travel trailer tire ratings – what does “st” mean.

Before we get into what “ST” tires are I want to talk briefly about some misinformation concerning ST trailer tires. ST tires get a bad rap in general for several reasons. In many cases the reason for tire failure on a trailer is due to overloading the tire, improper tire inflation, the age of a tire or constant exposure to the elements. I can’t tell you how many times I hear stories about tires that only have 10,000 miles and plenty of tread failing for no reason. What doesn’t get mentioned is the tires are 7 or 8 years-old, have cracks in the sidewalls, and are exposed to the sun and other elements every day. In other cases some folks fail to mention a tire was overloaded by 300 or 400 pounds and the tire failure occurred while towing the trailer at highway speeds in 90 degree temperatures. I am not saying this is always the case or reason for trailer tire failure, but it is in many situations.

With that said the designation ST stands for “Special Trailer” tire. ST tires are designed specifically for use on trailer axle positions only. They are not designed for steering axle positions or the traction requirements of a drive axle. ST tires have strengthened sidewalls to help prevent the tire from rolling under the rim in turns and when cornering. The majority of ST tires have a maximum speed rating of 65 mph. ST tires feature materials and construction designed to meet the higher load requirements and demands trailer towing places on a tire.

There has always been controversy surrounding whether to replace ST tires with a good quality LT tire. There are some LT tires I think would do the job on a trailer, but at the end of the day if ST tires are properly matched for the application, properly inflated, properly maintained and not overloaded they are the right tire for the job, in my opinion.

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Posted in Beginning RVer , RV Maintenance , RV Safety , RV Tips & Hints , RV Tires , Trailer Towing Topics | Tags: RV tires , special trailer tires , ST vs. LT tires , trailer ST tires , trailer tire tips , trailer towing tips , what does ST tire mean

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NEW ON YOUTUBE: Cash for Clunkers List

Best RV Tires: Improve Your Rig’s Ride and Safety

Keep your camper safe on the road with these rugged and dependable RV tires.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If it’s been a while since you used your RV and you’re pulling it out of seasonal storage, one of the key items on your safety checklist should be the tires. We’ve all seen some poor sucker pulled off on the shoulder delaying their camping bliss due to an unfortunate flat tire. What’s worse is how hard it is to control your RV when there is a blowout. It can be very dangerous for you and passing motorists to lose a tire on a large rig at highway speeds. Minimize your risk of experiencing a flat tire by replacing them with one of these top picks.

Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires

• Relatively affordable
• Reinforced steel belt construction
• Ribbed tread design for better handling
• Questionable customer service

Free Country Trailer Tires

• Affordable set of four tires
• Scuff guard system helps prevent rot
• High maximum speed rating

Westlake Traction Radial Tire

• Deep tire tread
• Stiff sidewalls hold up well against punctures and abrasions
• Budget-friendly option
• Not suitable for class A RVs
• Not the most stable, smooth ride

Our Methodology

When it comes to choosing the best RV tires, I wanted to provide you with a well-rounded list that features a good variety of reputable manufacturers with solid track records of providing high-quality, reliable products. I included a wide range of price points to suit any budget. I focused on RV tires that use the latest technology and that have innovative features and designs suitable for a wide variety of vehicles. For more information on the selection criteria, click this link to The Drive ’s Gear About page , which explains our methodology further.

Best RV Tire Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires

Best Budget: Free Country Trailer Tires

Honorable Mention: Westlake Traction Radial Tire

Best for Class A: Goodyear RV Radial Tire

Best for Class C: Cooper Wayfarer All-Season Tire

Best for Fifth Wheels: Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire

Best Overall

• Brand: Transeagle
• Model: ST Radiall II
• Weight Capacity: 3,527 pounds
• Solid 10-ply, reinforced steel belt construction
• Ribbed tread design allows for better handling
• Brand: Grand Ride
• Model: Free County
• Weight Capacity: 2,833 pounds
• Delivery time may be longer than desired

Honorable Mention

• Brand: Westlake
• Model: SL309
• Weight Capacity: 1,200 pounds
• Deep tire treads prevent hydroplaning
• Stiffer sidewalls hold up well against punctures and abrasions
• Not the most stable, smooth ride on the market

Best for Class A

Goodyear RV Radial Tire

• Brand: Goodyear
• Model: G670 RV ULT
• Weight Capacity: 4,540 pounds
• Rugged, sturdy tire meant for heavy-duty applications
• Tread pattern shunts water and reduces heat buildup
• Fuel-efficient casing
• Hard to mount

Best for Class C

Cooper Wayfarer All-Season Tire

• Brand: Cooper
• Model: Wayfarer
• Weight Capacity: 2,679 pounds
• Wide range of suitable applications
• Limits road noise and sway while driving at higher speeds
• Distinctive tread pattern provides longevity and even wear
• Can be difficult to mount
• Some quality control issues

Best for Fifth Wheels

Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire

• Brand: Trailer King
• Model: ST Radial
• Center groove improves stability and road traction
• Special nylon overlay construction adds strength and durability
• Backed by a nationwide limited warranty
• Tire tends to wear out quickly under heavy loads
• Sidewall construction is weak

Our Verdict

If you want a great all-season, rugged, well-performing RV tire offered for a price that won’t make you want to cry, my top pick has got to be the Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires . For the budget-conscious consumer, check out the Free Country Trailer Tires .

Things to Consider Before Buying RV Tires

When it comes to RV tires, there are a lot of confusing options and much to consider. It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all choice. Getting the wrong tires for your RV can not only lead to poor performance, but it can also be dangerous, putting yourself and other motorists at risk. Today’s RV tires come in a wide variety of styles, construction, and size options suitable for different vehicles. Be sure to get the one that most suits your specific needs.

When it comes to the ideal RV tire to suit your needs, size matters, folks. While it may seem overwhelming when you look at all the options out there, it’s really quite simple to determine what you need. Each tire features a combination of letters and numbers on its sidewall. All you need to do is look on your existing tire or in your owner’s manual to get the exact specs. 

Load Rating and Maximum Weight

Another important factor in selecting the proper RV tire is getting the proper load rating or maximum weight capacity. Keep in mind that this doesn’t just pertain to the RV itself but also to your RV once it’s loaded with all your gear and accessories. Ideally, you would select an RV tire that exceeds the recommended maximum load rating in your owner’s manual. 

Class and Type 

Knowing your RV class and type is also essential when selecting the proper RV tire. To clarify, RVs are typically classed as A, B, or C, based on their size and weight. Intuitively, Class A RVs are the larger, more opulent condos on wheels. Confusingly, Class C RVs are the typical fifth wheels, larger travel trailers, and mid-sized driveable RVs, while Class B RVs are the smaller camper-van style that is the most compact. Be sure to get a tire that is specifically rated to be able to be used with your specific class of RV.  

Pricing 

If you’re looking for a decent, reliable, and well-performing tire for an RV, expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $175 per tire, without a rim included. If you want a high-performance, top-of-the-line RV tire that utilizes the most advanced technology and construction materials, you can expect to spend between $190 and $500 per tire. 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: How often should I rotate my RV’s tires?

A: Typically, you should rotate your RV’s tires every six months or every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, whichever comes first. This helps to ensure even wear and tear on the tires and prevent unstable or shaky riding.

Q: How many years will an RV tire last?

A: This depends greatly on the make, model, and construction of the tire and how often and how far you drive it. Radial tires are generally constructed with steel belts and are thicker than typical car tires. On average, you can expect your RV tires to last anywhere from three to six years.

Q: How can I tell if the tread is wearing down?

A: Many newer tires have a treadwear indicator on them that tells you exactly when your tires should be replaced. Take a penny and lay it upside down on the tire tread with Abraham Lincoln facing you. If you can see his entire face, your tread depth is likely getting too low.

Q: Is D or R better for RV tires?

A: When it comes to RV tires, D indicates a bias-ply tire and R indicates that it’s a radial tire. Radial tires are generally preferred, as they are more resistant to punctures, provide a smoother, quieter ride and offer better fuel economy. Bias-ply tires are more affordable and can carry heavier loads but are less responsive and more susceptible to abrasion and wear.

Q: What pressure should my RV tires be?

A: The recommended RV tire pressure can be anywhere between 34 and 80 psi, depending on your RV’s make and model, its maximum load capacity, and the number of tires on your rig. The recommended tire pressure can usually be found on a sticker somewhere on your RV, in the owner’s manual, or on your original tires.

Q: How do I recycle or dispose of my old RV tires?

A: Getting rid of old RV tires can be a bit of a pain. Many local communities have tire recycling facilities. Call your local recycling center or your city’s EPA to see where the nearest venue is. Some local tire shops also accept old RV tires. As an additional option, you can upcycle your old tires by making fun planters from them or making your own tire swing.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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Speed Rating

How Speed Ratings are Determined

Speed ratings are based on laboratory tests where the tire is pressed against a large diameter metal drum to reflect its appropriate load. Then they are run at ever increasing speeds (in 6.2 mph steps in 10 minute increments) until the tire’s required speed has been met.

It is important to note that speed ratings only apply to tires that have not been damaged, altered, under-inflated or overloaded .  Additionally, most tire manufacturers maintain that a tire that has been cut or punctured no longer retains the tire manufacturer’s original speed rating, even after being repaired because the tire manufacturer can’t control the quality of the repair.

Deciphering a Speed Rating Symbols

The most common tire speed rating symbols, maximum speeds and typical applications are shown below:

Higher Speed Ratings

When Z-speed rated tires were first introduced, they were thought to reflect the highest tire speed rating that would ever be required, in excess of 149 mph. While Z-speed rated tires are capable of speeds in excess of 149 mph, how far above 149 mph was not identified. This caused the industry to add W- and Y-speed ratings to identify the tires that meet the needs of new, higher speed vehicles.

While a Z-speed rating often appears in the tire size designation of these tires (such as 225/50ZR16 91W) the Z in the size signifies a maximum speed capability in excess of 149 mph.  The W in the service description indicates the tire’s 168 mph, 270 km/h maximum speed. 

Over the years, tire speed ratings have evolved to better identify the tire’s capability.  Thus allowing drivers to match the speed of their tires with the top speed of their vehicle.

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Journey With Confidence

What Are Safe RV Towing Speeds?

• RV Lifestyle

There’s a lot to know when it comes to RV towing. Whether you’re towing a bumper-pull or fifth wheel with a truck, or you’re pulling a little tow car behind a motorhome, knowing the ropes before you hit the road is important. Weight limits , how to hitch up , and how to avoid low-clearance bridges are some of the things newbies need to know.

Another biggie? Safe RV towing speeds.

How fast you’re going can completely change how things go should a high wind catch you by surprise, or should somebody cut you off. Therefore, learning about safe RV towing speeds should be at the top of your list before your first trip. 

Lucky for you, that’s exactly what we’re going to discuss below. 

How fast can I go when towing or driving an RV? 

Let’s jump right in by answering that burning question: How fast can you safely go while towing or driving an RV? Honestly, the answer to this depends on a lot of factors. 

In ideal conditions and barring any local speed limits saying otherwise, the fastest you should find yourself towing a bumper-pull, fifth wheel, or car on a dolly or trailer is between 55 and 60 mph, and many choose to keep the speedometer around 50. Meanwhile, most experts recommend you never flat tow a car faster than 55 mph. 

Driving a motorhome without a tow car? In that case, you can probably go a little faster, but 60 to 65 mph should still be your max speed.

Why do I need to drive my RV slowly? 

Wondering why you need to drive slower in an RV? There are actually several reasons why slower RV towing speeds are safer. 

Stopping a big vehicle takes more time

The bigger your rig is, the heavier it is, and the heavier your rig is, the longer it will take to stop. Driving faster makes it even more difficult to stop quickly, meaning a slow driver is going to be much better off should traffic come to a sudden halt. 

Turning a big rig is more difficult

Turning an RV takes some getting used to. It requires that you swing wide and calculate things just right. This is much easier to do if you give yourself time to think and take your turns slowly. Not only will this help you ensure you get those turns right, it’ll also reduce the amount of damage you do if you get one wrong. 

Going too fast can cause sway

When towing a bumper-pull or a car on a trailer, driving fast can lead to the trailer swaying back and forth. If this sway gets too rough, it can actually take control of your vehicle, swinging you back and forth, and potentially even causing your tow vehicle to spin.

Obviously, this is very dangerous and is something you want to prevent. Driving slowly is one of the best ways to prevent sway. 

Driving uphill too fast can cause engine damage

Planning on driving through the mountains? Plan to go slow. Attempting to drive a big rig uphill fast can cause damage to the engine of your vehicle, leading to costly repairs and leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

When should you slow down in an RV?

Not only should you stick to the speeds mentioned above in ideal conditions, there are actually other factors that can require you to slow down even more. Pay attention when RV towing, and if one or more of these factors come into play, adjust your speed accordingly. 

Lower legal speed limit 

Obviously, you do have to mind the legal speed limits in any given area. Watch for truck-specific speed limits, as these apply to RVs as well. Additionally, know that some states have speed limits that apply specifically to those who are towing, so be sure to look up these limits before hitting the road. 

Windy conditions can be extremely dangerous, especially for tall, top-heavy RVs. If you feel your trailer swaying in the wind, or if the wind feels like it’s causing your motorhome to be out of control, slow down. Still an issue? Stop and stay put until the windy weather passes. 

Poor visibility 

Another weather issue that can make driving an RV unsafe is rain or fog that causes poor visibility. If you’re finding it difficult to see while driving your RV, slow down and turn on your headlights. Depending on the situation, you might even consider pulling over until things clear up. 

As mentioned above, driving fast up an incline can cause damage to your vehicle. Not only that, many trucks and motorhomes simply won’t be able to pull all that weight uphill even if you tried to gun it.

Plan to slow down on inclines, and know that your travel day will likely be longer than your GPS predicts. (As longtime RVers well know, it usually is anyway).

Other RV towing tips 

Now that you know how what you can expect in terms of RV towing speeds, let’s touch on a few other RV towing tips.

Know your weight limits

First, make sure you know how much weight your RV can hold, how much your truck can tow, and the other weight limits of your rig. Watch the weight of your setup and make sure you stay well within these limits. 

Invest in towing mirrors

If you’re towing a fifth wheel or bumper-pull, you will likely want to invest in special towing mirrors for your truck. These will help ensure you can see beside and behind your rig while towing. 

Ensure you have trailer brakes

Trailer brakes are incredibly important. If you don’t have them, get some. Make sure they are installed and calibrated correctly, and know how to use them in case of emergency. 

Never ride in a trailer or towed vehicle

We’d also like to remind you that people and pets should never ride in a trailer or towed vehicle. Doing so is extremely dangerous and not worth the hazard it poses.

Use an RV-safe GPS

Driving or towing an RV is different. You can’t drive as far, as long, or as fast. Knowing where you need to stop at the end of the day is a challenge, unless you have RV LIFE Trip Wizard . The unique Driving Radius provided by RV LIFE Trip Wizard shows you exactly where to stop and find a campground or RV park, based on criteria you have set. Plan ahead, plan smart, and know exactly where to stop.