Are you looking to take your RV out for a long trip this summer? Are you wondering about how your RV’s tires are going to hold up? If you are, this article will help you find the best RV tires on the market.
As the article progresses, it’ll go over all essential information about RV tires: product reviews, what an RV tire is, FAQ’s, types, factors to look at when purchasing one, etc. In doing so, the article will give you a general gist of what you should be looking for in a high-quality RV tire.
Therefore, this article should act as a guide that navigates the RV tire market for you. When you’re done reading this article, you’ll feel comfortable enough and have the necessary knowledge to make a responsible decision about your RV’s tires.
Grand Ride FREE COUNTRY
Rim Width | 6 Inches |
Tread Depth | 10 32nds |
Load Index Rating | 117.0 |
Carlisle Radial Trail HD
Rim Width | 15 Inches |
Tread Depth | 9 32nds |
Load Index Rating | 107.0 |
Trailer King ST Radial
Rim Width | 15 Inches |
Tread Depth | 10 32nds |
Load Index Rating | 117.0 |
Table of Contents
Best Tire for RV Reviews
In this section, there will be ten detailed product reviews discussing the high-quality RV tires on the market. For your convenience, it’s divided into two parts: light truck tires and special trailer tires.
Light Truck Tires (Class A, Class B, Class C)
1. Grand Ride Free Country ST 225/75R15 10PR Trailer Tires
The Grand Ride Free Country ST 225/75R15 is one of the most valuable tires RV owners can ever get for their travel trailers and fifth wheels.
One can get a complete four-tire set for a fraction of the price of leading tire brands. RV owners cannot get a better deal for 5th wheel RV tires than this.
Unlike other tires I know, this product features a 10-ply ST radial construction with high-quality steel belts forming its core. This tire’s structure is perfect for supporting heavy loads, ensuring optimum stability on the road, and overall ride comfort.
Many RV-ers are pleased with these RV tires 22575R15 units’ sidewall protection features. Such a well-made scuff guard system can prevent sidewall weathering or dry rot. RV owners will feel more confident about using these tires on their travel trailers.
The full cap ply overlay also helps improve the tire’s overall strength and durability. Its M-speed rating gives travel trailer owners the confidence to drive their motorhomes up to 81 miles per hour without damaging the tires. However, I would not recommend going beyond 60, especially with a fully loaded trailer behind the truck.
Although these tires are some of the most affordable rubbers for RVs on the market, they have one slight drawback. These tires have a Chinese footprint, which would help explain why some RV owners stay away from them.
Nevertheless, this tire’s sidewall and tread protection and 10-ply construction are enough for many RV owners to consider it for their fifth wheel and travel trailer. One can always extend these tires’ lifespan by driving sensibly.
- ST radial, 10-ply tires for durability and load-carrying performance
- Advanced full cap ply overlay for added strength and durability
- A well-made scuff guard system can prevent sidewall weathering or dry rot
- M-raing tires that allows 81 mph maximum speed rating
- Perfect for travel trailers and fifth wheels
- Four tires are available at an affordable price
- Has a Chinese footprint, thus not preferred by some users
2. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire
The Carlisle Radial Trailer Tire is another high-quality tire explicitly made for an RV like a fifth wheel trailer or any other RV that you have to tow. Due to this, it’s easily one of the most versatile tires on this list.
And the positives don’t stop with its versatility. For example, I love its distinctive tread pattern because it evens out the wear the tire will experience over time. Therefore, it will keep your tire in better shape for a more extended period by disturbing the wear all around the tire.
Also, this promotion of even wear throughout the tire encourages reliable performance. See, by evenly disturbing the wear, the tire won’t have one section that’s badly beaten up to the point where tire failure is inevitable.
Along with having a distinctive tread pattern, this tire has added protection against heat with a built-in weathering and ozone protection. In others words, these tires could be a lifesaver in those daunting summer months.
These tires also have the added benefit of limiting road noise with its varied pitch pattern. In doing so, it makes the ride quality much more comfortable and stress-free.
- Works with a wide range of applications
- Has distinctive tread pattern that encourages even wear
- Promotes a long tire life and reliable performance
- Limits road noise
- Added protection against the heat with a built-in weathering and ozone protection
- In some cases, difficult to put on RVs
3. Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire
The Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire is an excellent fit for any RV owner with a fifth wheel or travel trailer for various reasons. The first being that tire has a center groove.
This center groove allows the tire to consistently track, which means you can take comfort in knowing your tires are stable and performs in peak condition. Also, this center groove offers a smooth ride that doesn’t back down from any weather condition.
In fact, these tires thrive in the worst conditions with their primary focus in providing your RV with a source of strength and durability. See, the nylon overlay embedded inside the tire allows for this sense of strength/durability to form
Honestly, the strength that this tire provides is my favorite thing about this product. It makes me feel safe about putting these tires on a fifth wheel trailer, travel trailer, or any other larger RV application.
And as a radial tire, you know these tires are built to handle the grind of regular highway use, especially, with a feature like it’s shoulder design: it’s specially designed to reduce the build-up of friction between the asphalt and the tire.
As mentioned before in the other product reviews, any feature that lower’s a tire temperature is a godsend for RV owners. However, not everything about this tire is positive.
- The center groove allows the tire to track and remain stable consistently
- Has a smooth ride that can handle any weather condition
- The tire’s strength and durability makes sure it can withstand hard driving situations.
- Nylon overlay in all of its sizes
- The shoulder design dissipates heat exceptionally well
- Can wear out fast with constant exposure to heavier loads
4. Maxxis M8008 BSW Radial Trailer Tire
Many people consider the Maxxis M808 BSW trailer tires one of the trusted tires for RV. It is right up there with the world’s best, such as Goodyears, Michelins, and Bridgestones.
RV-owners would appreciate the tires’ radial ply construction, featuring a 6-ply design of only the highest quality materials available. Not only does it extend the tire’s service life, but it also ensures better load carrying capabilities.
We can install these rubbers in our fifth wheel or travel trailers to ensure a smoother ride without worrying about overheating them.
Its ST classification also makes this tire perfect for large RVs, such as Class As and Class Cs. In fact, its double steel belts ensure my towed vehicle will not sway when navigating a curve. I can go 70 MPH with my fifth wheel without causing it to swerve like a pendulum.
The rubber is something else. I could tell it is different from others I have used because of its advanced formulation. The treads have an ingenious pattern for exceptional traction while ensuring better fuel economy.
The best part about these RV tires is their proven performance. I have seen multiple RV-ers saying they have had these tires in their motorhomes and travel trailers for at least ten years.
These products are exceptional RV tires for 5th wheel if one can get them brand new. Unfortunately, most of these tires have been sitting on shelves, collecting dust for a few years. Even though they are unused, it will still be better if they are fresh from the factory.
That said, I would never hesitate to recommend these rubbers to anyone with a travel trailer or a fifth-wheel motorhome. Its real-world performance is at par with the right tires for motorhomes on the market.
- ST-rating tires for heavy loads of large RVs: Class As and Class Cs
- Radial 6-ply design for better carrying capabilities
- Double steel-belted design for superior strength and durability
- Advanced rubber compound for better traction, fuel economy, and stability
- Proven real-world performanc
- Some issues with dated tires requires us to check the product before use
5. Westlake SL309 Traction Radial Tire
Choosing the right tires for motorhome vehicles and travel trailers can be challenging, especially for newbies. What they need are reliable and affordable tires without being pure knock-offs. In that case, the Westlake SL309 should be worth considering.
First of all, the tire’s speed is Q, which is a lot better than an M-rating. I could drive my truck up to 99 miles per hour without worrying about bursting my rubber. Of course, putting these tires on a travel trailer is a different story. I would never go beyond 60, even if I am on open roads and tugging a heavy load.
I am also surprised at how deep the treads of this tire are. Now I know why the brand put the “Traction” label in the name. It emphasizes the rubber’s exceptional road-hugging capabilities, ensuring RV drivers will have outstanding control of their vehicles on the pavement.
The sidewall is also stiffer and thicker than most tires I have seen. RV owners will never worry about tearing their tires or puncturing their rubbers unless, of course, intentional. The pair of high-strength steel belts sandwiching a double polyester cord also improves the tire’s strength, enhancing its shape retention capabilities.
As good and valuable as these tires are, I do not recommend them for Class A RVs or any vehicle with a maximum load capacity of 1,200 pounds per tire. Hence, if one is looking for tires for diesel pusher motorhome or other large and heavy vehicles, this product might not be the right tire.
This tire is an excellent buy for owners of light-duty RVs, including campers and travel trailers. Its performance is exceptional, and its construction is noteworthy. Its price is a welcome bonus for many RV owners.
- Q speed rating for up to 99-mph speeds
- Deep tire treads for exceptional traction and stability
- Features stiffer sidewalls than other tires to avoid cut and punctures
- Double high-strength steel belts with polyester cord construction
- A cost-effective product for RV-owners with a limited budget
- Not recommended for Class A RVs
6. Goodyear Wrangler Fortitude HT All-Season Radial Tire
As the first Goodyear RV tires product on this list, it’s no surprise the Goodyear Wrangler Fortitude HT All-Season Radial Tire is a product worthy of the reputation the brand has cultivated.
In being so, there are many things about these tires that I adore. For example, the lower rolling resistance tread that increases your RV’s fuel efficiency is a must have for any class A RV owners.
After all, any way you can avoid your RV costing you a fortune in gas is a plus. These tires will also keep your trip as quiet as humanly possible thanks to Goodyear’s high importance put on your RV’s ride quality.
As mentioned before, you can’t overestimate the impact reducing as much noise as possible can have on the quality of an RV trip: a quiet, smooth ride down the highway is much better than a bumpy, loud one.
Moreover, these tires get excellent traction on highways; therefore, you won’t encounter the nightmare that is a bumpy ride going down the road in an RV. And it all comes at an affordable price.
However, the affordable price comes at a cost, as these tires come in a limited number of sizes. This lack of size option becomes a bit of a problem, especially, if you’re like me and the dimensions listed don’t meet your particular sizing needs.
- Little noise
- Lower rolling resisting tread to enhance fuel efficiency
- High degree of ride comfort
- Excellent traction
- Affordable price
- Limited range of sizes
- Snow/ice traction
7. Michelin XPS RIB Truck Radial Tire
The Michelin RV Trailer Tires are extremely viable, worthwhile options for any RV owner looking for new tires. The first thing about these tires that stands out is the practicality.
In other words, it’s remarkable how many sizes and vehicles these tires can fit. I’d doubt there’s an RV out there that can’t find an appropriate size of these tires for their particular needs.
Besides loving them being extremely practical, there’s also the sturdy, durable steel casing that’s another incredible feature. In fact, this steel casting ensures the tire’s wear life will be longer; therefore, guaranteeing your tire will last a long time.
It also can have quite the positive effect on your wallet by employing a low rolling resistance that enhances fuel economy. Anytime a tire can help reduce the hit an RV has on our bank accounts is an incredible benefit.
Furthermore, the tread design ensures these tires will have no problem keeping up with the rigorous schedule I have planned for my RV. I wouldn’t expect to have any issues with this tire from a performance standpoint.
Along the same lines, its steel reinforced construction makes sure this tire is as reliable/sturdy as it needs to be for the job it’s required to do. All in all, this product is a stable, no-nonsense item that will adequately perform it’s intended purpose well.
- Has a strong, durable steel casing to encourage longer wear life
- Steel reinforced construction making it durable and sturdy
- Available in various sizes
- Enhances fuel economy with low rolling resistance
- Its tread design improves the tire’s stability and traction
- Not great with snow or ice
Special Trailer Tires (Fifth Wheel Trailers, Travel Trailers)
8. Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST Radial Tire
The Goodyear Unisteel RST Radial Tire is an ST tire that represents the pinnacle of RV tires with its ability to handle the needs of even the most significant trailer applications such as a fifth wheel trailer. The material it’s made with allows it to withstand the pressure apply from even the most demanding trailers.
Besides the material it’s made with, there are multiple things I love about this product. For example, the road’s conditions have little to no effect on the traction garnered by these tires.
As someone who intends to drive my RV through some rainstorms, this is a benefit I can’t see myself passing up. Also, I love the fact they keep the tire’s temperature down with its shallow tread patterns.
Unfortunately, I don’t have the luxury of storing my RV in a garage; therefore, any added benefit to reduce the risk of the sun rotting away my tires is something I greatly appreciate.
Furthermore, the varied size availability is something any RV driver can benefit from, given, it’s improbable that you won’t find the perfect tire size for your RV. After all, it can be quite frustrating to find your ideal tire, and it doesn’t come in the size you need.
And as a radial tire, you know these tires are highway ready. Even with their focus on withstanding the toughest trailer assignments, Goodyear made sure to make these tires were prepared for regular highway usage.
- Can withstand the pressure of the most significant, demanding trailer applications
- Available in several different sizes
- Reduces the risk of heat damaging your tires with its shallow tread pattern
- Known to excel in dangerous situations such as rain or snow
- Expensive
9. Freestar M-108 Radial Trailer Tire
Our last product on this list, the Freestar M-108 Radial Trailer Tire, is an excellent option for an RV owner looking for a new set of top-ratedRV trailer tires. Honestly, it provides many different features that are extremely useful for the best travel trailer tires to buy.
For instance, the complex rubber compound ensures this tire will provide your RV with peak strength and durability. You won’t have to wear about these tires wearing down due to over usage.
As with other products on this list, these tires have deep grooves that expel water to help avoid water from becoming a dangerous issue. If you’re RVing up to a place like Seattle, these tires might be the ones for you.
Along with ensuring water damage won’t become an issue, these tires are known for having excellent traction and grip. You can feel safe that making a sharp turn won’t cause your trailer to flip with these tires.
Additionally, these tires even having a cooling layout that helps reduce the heat generated from your tire’s use. It also will put up a fight against those dangerous UV rays from the sun that cause things like tire rot. And it all comes at a decent price that won’t empty your bank account.
- Has refined tread and cooling layout
- Complex rubber compound makes tires stronger and more durable
- Deep groves that help expel water
- Decent price
- Excellent traction and grip
- Has a bulging sidewall
Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor Pro Radial Tire (Outdated)
The second Goodyear product on our list, the Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor Pro Radial Tire, is a high-quality RV tire that separates itself from the pack in many different ways.
One of these ways that I love is how the tire’s open tread pattern allows it to be excellent on wet roads. As someone who often encounters downpours, these tires would make those times a lot less stressful.
Furthermore, the thick treads and sidewalls give these tires a sense of stability/durability that makes them very attractive to a regularly RV user like myself. Plus, they help reduce road noise, which is always beneficial.
Along with helping reduce noise, these tires are made with Durawall technology that helps reduce the risk of tears and punctures to the tire’s sidewall. And with the radial tire’s tendency to have their sidewalls bulge out, this is a welcomed benefit.
Besides having thicker treads and sidewalls, Goodyear added in a rim protector to help protect from accidental curb damage. I’d guess any RV owner could benefit from this feature because sometimes it’s difficult to see where the curb begins from a vehicle like a class A RV.
And one last positive aspect worth mentioning is the affordable price. After all, if I can’t afford the tire, all of these incredible features mean nothing.
- Excellent on snowy, wet roads with its open tread pattern
- Thick treads and sidewalls that add toughness and reduces road noise
- Rim protector helps protect against accidental curb damage
- The Durawall technology used on the sidewall helps reduce tears punctures
- Affordable price
- On certain RVs, can cause a bumpy ride
Boto Tyres BT926 Radial Tire (Outdated)
The Boto Tyres Radial Tire is one of the top-rated tires available for your RV. For instance, I love its ability to offer peak performance without sacrificing the ride quality. See, the quiet tread will carefully maneuver across highways without causing a raucous.
In other words, this tire will offer you stability and complete control at an almost silent noise level. There’s nothing worse than a headache becoming worse from the constant noise of your tires running across the asphalt.
Additionally, I like how these tires are useful both on long and short hauls. As you know, some radial tires don’t offer any benefits for short RV hauls because you don’t need longer tread life when you’re going short distances.
However, with the 5-rib design, these tires lend them useful through providing decent mileage for both short and long-haul applications. Honestly, this is a real plus for someone who isn’t quite sure where their RV trip is going to take them.
More importantly, these tires perform excellently on highways, which make them an incredible buy for any driver with class designated RV. In fact, they’re known to work well at high speeds, something you’re going to need on these pesky highways.
And if you’re worried about rain being an issue, these tires are made specially to work well in rainstorms with its unique tread pattern. This tread pattern is known to make sure the tire’s performance doesn’t get affected by overwhelming water by providing sufficient water drainage.
- The quiet tread gives you a noise-free environment while providing complete control and stability.
- The special tread pattern makes sure the tire’s performance doesn’t suffer in a rainstorm.
- Offers reliable mileage for both short and long-haul applications with its 5-rib design
- Able to handle a significant load.
- Excellent on highways
- Expensive
Hankook AH12 Radial Tire (Outdated)
The Hankook AH12 Radial Tire is another high-quality option any RV driver would love to own. Honestly, with its various features, these tires border on irresistible to any driver considering a tire upgrade.
For instance, it was hard to ignore how much I loved this tire’s ability for escaping overwhelming water relatively undamaged. See, the groves this tire has helps expel water to help keep its grip.
In doing so, it makes a thing like hydroplaning an almost non-issue. This revelation was jaw-dropping to me considering how much I need a tire that can successfully navigate wet roads.
Additionally, Hankook made sure to incorporate various snipes within this tire, which helps improves it traction regardless of the weather. It seems this manufacturer wanted to create a tire that could handle any circumstance without sacrificing performance.
In this regard, they’ve certainly succeeded. On another positive note, the belt structure makes sure the friction generated between the tire and the road doesn’t become an issue.
In fact, the belt structure reducing heat generation could help any driver avoid the nightmarish circumstances that tire failure embodies. As you probably know, heat generation is a primary factor in creating tire failure.
And this tire ability to improve your RV’s handling is unmatched. See, the optimized carcass structure make sure your RV’s driving as smooth as possible. Overall, this tire is a remarkable product that does everything it promises.
- Groves expel water to enhance the tire’s grip and prevent hydroplaning during rainstorms
- The various sipes improve all-weather traction
- Belt structure reduces the heat generation
- The optimized carcass structure ensures better handling
- Incredibly expensive
Sailun S637 Trailer Radial Tire (Outdated)
Our first special trailer tire, the Sailun Trailer Radial Tire, is a fantastic option for fifth wheel trailer or travel trailer owners. In fact, they’re many things about this product that make it one of the most trusted on the market.
For example, it has a wide tread face, which allows for better stability and handling. As any fifth wheel trailer owner knows, you need trailer tire that gives you a sense of comfort. After all, you don’t want to have any issues when towing something that massive.
And when you’re pulling towing something that massive at high-speeds, it’s essential you have a tire that has something to keep the trailer from swaying back and forth. This wide tread face helps keep the swaying in check.
Furthermore, these tires offer your fifth wheel trailer safety during those pesky snowstorms with its excellent traction. See, this tire’s has multi-sipes that allow for a better grip in slippery or dangerous situations.
Additionally, these sipes keep your tire’s temperature down by regulating the heat that generates between the tires and road. In doing so, the tires promote longer tread life and ensure you won’t have to buy another set of tires for a very long time.
It also comes at an incredible price that is hard to beat in the RV tire market. There isn’t a whole lot to unlike about these tires. But as you know, every product ever made’s going to have a fault or two, and this tire isn’t any different.
- Great Price
- Wide tread face to offer better stability and handling
- Promotes better fuel efficiency due to low rolling resistance
- Has excellent traction in wet conditions and keeps your tire’s temperature low for longer tread life due to multi-sipes
- The sidewall has been known to bulge out
What to Look for When Buying an RV Tire
When searching for any product online, many things are going through your head about what you want out of your purchase. In this section, we’ll go over the only essential things that need considering about RV tire reviews to help alleviate some of your stress.
Size
If you’re looking into buying an RV tire, the first thing you need to know is the tire size your RV requires. Honestly, identifying the tire isn’t as complicated as it seems. See, there’s a combination of letters and numbers on the sidewall that relives a tire’s size.
It will look something like LT225/75R16. The “LT” stands for light truck that establishes the tire’s type. For RV owners with an RV in one of the classes, you should be on the lookout for a tire that has a combination starting with “LT’.
Disclaimer: the combination will start with “ST” for trailer tires. Otherwise, everything else is the same.
Furthermore, the “225” stands for the tire’s width from sidewall to sidewall in millimeters. Therefore, the width of this sample tire is 225 millimeters. This information will help you shrink down the massive amount of options you can choose in RV tire market.
After establishing the tire’s width, the “75” is an indicator of the tire’s aspect ratio: the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. In other words, the “75” means that the tire’s height is equal to 75% of its width. In this case, the height would be about 168 millimeters.
Lastly, the “R” stands for radial, and the “16” indicts that the tire will fit a wheel with a 16-inch diameter. All in all, it’s not all that complicated. And once you have established the size you need, it makes shopping for RV tires much simpler.
Load Rating and Maximum Weight
You need to understand how much weight your tires need to hold. Remember, this doesn’t mean only the RV itself but the things inside the RV too. Due to this, if possible, you should get a set of tires with a load rating that exceeds your required limit.
If you’re wondering what the load rating is, its designation is located on the sidewall of the tire. For example, it will say something like “Max load: 1150kg (2540 pounds)” on the sidewall, this is your load rating.
In this case, the “2540 pounds” represents the maximum that tire can hold at full inflation. Therefore, if you have four tires on your RV, it should be able to hold up to 10160 pounds.
Class and Type
Figuring out what class your RV’s in is essential in the search for the best RV tires for class C or B, A. Just briefly touch on this again, there are three different classes of RVs: class A, class B, and class C. And remember, some RV’s don’t fit into any of these classes.
The class A RV is the monstrous RVs you’re so used to seeing. They have all the amenities you could ever want and have the mile per gallon rate of a Hummer. Think tour bus, and that’s the type of vehicle we’re talking about here.
A class B RV is the smallest available RV. These RVs are often called campervans as they have a van-like shape and have some amenities like a tiny bathroom, kitchen, and living room. However, these RV’s are rarely ever used by full-time RVers.
And a class C RV is the standard camper you’d envisioned. In other words, these are the RV’s with an attached cab with an overhang over the cab. These RVs usually have similar amenities to a class A RV but come at a lot lower price.
As previously stated in other sections, all the class RVs need light truck radial tires rather than trailer tires. I can’t stress enough how essential this is to achieve peak performance and guarantee safety.
Obviously, these classes don’t cover RV’s like a fifth wheel trailers or travel trailers: these trailers required ST’s or trailer tires to ensure everyone’s safety. And if you have one of these RV’s, you should consider whether or not bias tires is an acceptable option.
Sidewall Strength
No matter your intention on RV usage, you’re going to need a tire with a durable, tough sidewall. Due to this, it’s essential you do the necessary research about each tire you consider.
In other words, read reviews, forum boards, websites, etc. to gain a truly educated opinion about each tire you deem worth considering. Don’t make a rash decision because getting a low-quality tire could put you in a dangerous position.
Where You’re Going
Is your RV trip using mostly back roads or highways? Is it going to snow or rain? Things like this should be a significant factor into what kind of RV tires you’re going to get. For example, if you’re going on a lot of back roads, bias tires should become a more realistic option.
See, with their sturdy sidewall, they’re unlikely to blow out as quickly as a radial tire would. On the other hand, radial tires should be the only option you consider with a trip featuring mostly highways.
Likewise, if you’re planning on hitting a harsh winter storm, you should look into things like snow tires to prepare RV fully. If this is your case, it never hurts to ask your local mechanic about them.
Other Important Factors to Consider
What kind of RV do you have
Now, there isn’t a specific tire type that’s called an RV tire because RV’s come in all shapes and sizes: campervans, motorhomes, campers, etc. In fact, the term “RV” has become so broad that manufacturers have seen it fit to separate RVs into three class distinctions: class A, class B, and class C.
In class A, you have the standard RVs or motorhomes. You know, the kind of RV you think of musicians using to tour the country. These RVs are massive, gas sucking vehicles that are meant to transport lots of people.
On the other hand, a class B RV or campervan is a smaller, more compact vehicle that allows for the driver to have a little bit more control. In other words, these RVs could move out of the way of something dangerous.
Lastly, a class C RV or camper combines the best of both other classes. In doing so, it combines the amenities of the monstrous class A RV and the agility of class B RV into one RV.
And these classes don’t even account for other RVs that are towed behind another vehicle such as fifth wheel trailers. With these RVs, you’re going to looking for trailer tires, also called special trailer (ST) tires.
In comparison, if your RV fits into one of these classes, you’re going to be looking for a light truck tire. See, trailer tires aren’t meant for vehicle use. In other words, they don’t make traction a priority.
As you would expect, a motorhome needs a tire that makes traction a priority because it might need to turn sharply. Therefore, it’s essential you understand the type of RVs you have, or you won’t know which kind of tire you need.
Types of RV tires
As mentioned in the previous section, there are two tire types in the RV tire world: a light truck tire and a trailer tire. Below, we’ll go over the types and discuss some scenarios where each one would be appropriate, as well as, state the difference between radial and bias tires.
- Light truck tires
Light Truck Tires are explicitly built for any vehicle more significant than a small pick-up truck (3/4 ton). With this in mind, it’s no surprise these tires are made differently than the tires you’d use for a regular car.
For instance, they’re built with more material to enhance the sidewalls because these vehicles need more load barring capabilities. Due to this, the ride quality can be rough when light truck tires are used on cars that don’t require them.
However, when used on a class A RV such as a motorhome, these tires can have a massive impact on keeping your RV in pristine condition. See, the high load capabilities make these tires rugged and durable.
In fact, they’re perfect for surviving the rough conditions you might encounter on your RV trip. All in all, any RV that fits into class A, B, or C is going to need a high-quality set of light truck tires.
But if your RV doesn’t have its own engine and needs to be towed, the following type of tires would be better suited for your situation:
- Trailer tires
Trailer tires or special trailer (ST) tires are specially built to handle the pressure massive tractor-trailer loads put on their tires. Due to this, these tires have a stronger sidewall than other cars or trucks.
However, these tires aren’t meant for steering, transporting power from engine to road, or making radical movements to avoid dangerous obstacles. Instead, trailer tires focus on keeping your trailer from swaying and becoming an issue for you or other drivers.
Overall, trailer tires focus more on securing large truckloads rather than providing the driver with the ability to make a sharp turn. In other words, these tires are strictly for vehicles that have no engine and are being towed by other vehicles.
Therefore, RV’s like fifth wheel trailers or travel trailers are ideally suited for a high-quality set of trailer tires. They’ll do make a huge difference and add a sense of security for the driver towing these types of vehicles down the road.
Now, regardless of if you get LT’s or ST’s, there is one more decision you must make before purchasing tires for your RV: radial vs. bias. See, both LT’s and ST’s come in as either radial or bias tires, and both have different scenarios whether they’d function better.
- Radial
With flexibility in mind, radial tires have the tire’s steel belts run at a 90-degree angle. In doing so, it allows the tire to get tougher, more durable, better traction, and increased stability.
Additionally, the flexible sidewall allows these tires to focus on keeping the tread alive for a more extended period. Also, it reduces fuel consumption due to the flexible sidewall enabling less rolling resistance.
And with the radial tire’s ability to provide a softer ride, these tires are often seen as the proper option for RV drivers who want to take longer trips or plan on using the RV regularly.
But since people tend to see the radial tires as a better option than bias tires, they’re often more expensive. Honestly, these tires can put a real hurting on your bank account.
- Bias
In comparison, bias tires are less expensive, but this comes at the cost of being worse quality. See, bias tires are composed with nylon belts that run at a 30-45 degree angle.
Due to this, their sidewalls are stronger and can handle more significant weight loads than radial tires; however, the added strength reduces the tire’s flexing ability. This issue could be a massive problem for an RV owner that needs their tire to last for a long time.
Without the flexible sidewall, a bias tire’s average lifespan is around 12,000 miles. This stretch of time is significantly less than a radial tire, 40,000. In other words, the bias tire is better at handling the pressure of heavier loads, but have a relatively shorter lifespan.
In my opinion, bias tires should only be considered for the RV owners with fifth wheel trailers or travel trailers. And even in that case, only for RV owners who are taking a short trip on rough back roads.
Why do you need an RV tire
You need an RV tire for your RV for a simple reason; a passenger tire isn’t going to fit or have the load capabilities necessary for a safe trip. Therefore, you need a tire with the right size, load rating, class, etc. to ensure a stress-free RV experience.
After all, who wants to be on the side of the highway yelling at their RV because a tire failed? I know, I don’t. Thankfully, the following section will explain what you need to consider when buying your RV’s tires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As you would expect from a FAQ section, this portion of the article will try to answer any remaining questions you have regarding RV tires.
How much are RV tires?
Many different factors help decide an RV tire’s price: size, manufacturer, quality, the class of your RV, etc. Therefore, the price range fluctuates from extreme highs to unexpected lows.
For example, the average cost of class A RV tires is about $300 each. But if you find the right sale or brand, it can get as low as $60. Honestly, it depends on the size you’re looking for and the tire’s quality.
All in all, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to get a price that works for your particular needs. Just remember, there’s always a bargain out there somewhere you just have to find it. And that’s what this article will help you do.
Is D or R better for trailer tires?
Most RV owners prefer ‘R’ tires for their trailers because they last longer and do not sway nor bounce as much as ‘D’ tires. Novice RV owners might want to learn what these letters mean to appreciate the difference.
One might notice an R or D letter in RV tire ratings. For example, the tire might have a 205/75D14 or a 205/75R14 print on the rubber’s sidewall.
The D and R designations describe the tire’s ply construction.
- The letter D describes a diagonal (30 to 45-degree angle) orientation of the tire materials (alternating layers of polyester netting, rubberized nylon, and fiberglass belts) relative to its centerline. These tires are perfect for carrying heavy loads and driving on straights. Unfortunately, they are more vulnerable to heat and abrasion than R tires.
- Radial ply tires have the letter ‘R’ on the tire markings. The polyester cords and steel mesh belts overlap at a 90-degree angle to the tire’s centerline. Their unique design allows radial tires to ensure a quieter and smoother ride, with exceptional sway control when navigating curves.
Radial tires are also puncture-resistant, run cooler than bias-ply (D) tires, and have better fuel economy. Rolling resistance is also low.
Do I need special tires for my RV?
Yes, recreational vehicles need special tires, far different from the rubbers used in everyday vehicles. It is essential to understand that these machines are heftier than the average automobile.
- A Class A RV can weigh between 15,000 and 30,000 pounds. On the other hand, a standard pickup truck weighs 4,000 to 4,700 pounds. The weight differential requires special Class A motorhome tires capable of supporting the RV’s weight.
- People with Class C recreational vehicles should use Class C-specific rubbers in their respective motorhomes. These rubber products support the average Class C motorhome weight of 10,000 to 12,000 pounds.
- Fifth-wheel RVs can weigh 5,000 to 16,000 pounds, averaging at 12,700 pounds. Hence, only special tires (ST) can support this recreational vehicle.
- Class B recreational vehicles weigh between 6,000 and 11,000 pounds, making them the lightest motorhomes. Hence, it would be best to get the correct tires for E450 motorhome or similar Class B RVs.
In general, RV tires have a design and construction different from conventional automotive rubbers. It would be best to understand one’s RV weight limitations and compare them with tire specifications to get the correct RV tires on the market.
Where to buy RV tires?
As you would expect, the amount of places where you can buy a tire from is vast. However, the best places online would be Amazon and rvtires.com. Both these sites will get you exactly what you need to find the best deal for your RV tires.
By the way, never go directly to the brand websites. The prices on these websites tend to be higher than the ones on Amazon. I don’t know why these brand companies do this, but it seems to be a constant with most consumer markets.
If you’re wary about buying online, local tire shops or even brand manufacturer shops such as Bridgestone should be able to help you with your RV tire needs. In the end, just make sure the place you’re buying from is reputable.
How do you know if your RV tires are bad?
There are two ways one can determine if the motorhome, fifth-wheel, or camper tires are going bad and require replacement.
- First, one can determine the tire’s age.
Most 5th wheel tires last three to six years, while some have an extended lifespan of five to nine years. Most RV owners determine the age of their motorhome or fifth wheel tires by checking the last time they changed the tires. Unfortunately, not everyone keeps a record of such an activity.
- The second method involves inspecting the tires.
RV tires also have tread wear indicators running across the tire’s width below the tire tread’s outer surface level. It is safe to assume one needs to replace the tire if the tread wear bar is at the same level as its top layer.
One can also measure the groove’s depth, which should be greater than 1/8 of an inch.
Unfortunately, RV tires do not wear as fast as everyday vehicles. Hence, one must examine the tread for dry rot or sidewall weathering. These are cracks in the tire treads due to rubber compound breakdown. It is time to replace the tires if the fissures are deeper than 1/16 of an inch.
What pressure should my RV tires be?
Recreational vehicles have a tire and loading information sticker or plate on their bodies or door panels.
It would be best for RV owners to check the recommended tire pressure for their respective rubbers.
For example, a motorhome running on factory-installed Class C RV tires with speed ratings of 225/45R17 91H might have a recommended tire inflation pressure of 34 PSI or 235 kPa. If one chooses to replace the tires with a different rating, it would be best to consult the tire manufacturer’s recommendations.
Michelin recommends a tire inflation pressure of 70 to 110 PSI for its 235/80R22.5 LRG 22.5 RV tires, depending on the load and whether the RV is single or dual-axle.
On the other hand, 16-inch LT245/75R16 LRE tires require 35 to 80 PSI of tire inflation pressure.
RV owners using this method should drive their motorhomes to a truck stop with a CAT scale to determine their vehicle’s axle weights.
The next step involves dividing one axle weight by the number of tires on the same axle. Add 10% to the resulting number and use the information to look for the correct tire inflation pressure on a chart.
How often should RV tires be replaced?
Depends on various factors such as usage, age, wear, etc. But a good rule of thumb is every three to six years. If you use your RV regularly, lean more to the three-year side of this range.
Regardless, it’s essential you check your tires regularly. If your tires start looking like they’re on their last legs, don’t adhere to the year range above. In other words, trust your instincts. If you think there’s something wrong, there probably is an issue..
How to protect RV tires?
The right way to protect your RV tires is by storing it in a cool, dry area like a garage. Of course, we don’t all have the luxury of having access to this type of environment. In this case, put something like wood under the tires to keep the sun from rotting away your tires.
Conclusion
After all these sections, there should be no reason you shouldn’t feel comfortable buying your next set of RV tires. In fact, it’s time you go onto Amazon and find the best RV tires for your next RV vacation.
And remember; make sure you use all this new information to get a high-quality RV tire. Or you might find yourself pulled over on the highway wishing you did!
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