When it comes to travel trailers, most RV owners focus on features like sleeping capacity, kitchen appliances, or towing ease. However, one of the most critical yet often overlooked components is the tires. Your trailer’s tires literally carry the entire load, and their performance determines how safe and smooth your journey will be.
In this guide, we’ll break down what tire ratings mean, how to read them, and why they matter for your travel trailer.
Travel Trailer Tire Ratings
| Tire Model | Load Range | Load Capacity (lbs) | Speed Rating | Ply Rating | Rim Size (inches) | Terrain Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carlisle Radial Trail HD | C, D, E | 1,120 – 3,960 | L (75 mph), M (81 mph), N (87 mph) | 8, 10 | 14, 15, 16 | Highway, light off-road |
| Maxxis M8008 ST Radial | C, D, E | 1,820 – 3,420 | L (75 mph) | 6, 8, 10 | 14, 15, 16 | Highway, light off-road |
| Goodyear Unisteel G614 RST | E, F | 3,415 – 4,080 | L (75 mph) | 10, 12 | 16, 17.5 | Highway, light off-road |
| Goodyear Endurance Radial | C, D, E | 1,700 – 3,042 | L (75 mph), N (87 mph) | 8, 10 | 14, 15, 16 | Highway, light off-road |
| Trailer King ST Radial | C, D, E | 1,820 – 3,520 | L (75 mph), M (81 mph) | 8, 10 | 14, 15, 16 | Highway, wet conditions |
| eCustomRim Trailer Tire | C, D | 1,820 – 2,540 | L (75 mph) | 8 | 14, 15 | Highway |
| Wheels Express Travel Trailer | C, D | 1,820 – 2,830 | L (75 mph) | 8, 10 | 15 | Highway |
| Grand Ride Trailer Tires | C, D, E | 2,540 – 3,520 | L (75 mph) | 8, 10 | 15, 16 | Highway, light off-road |
| Freestar M-108+ | C, D, E | 1,820 – 2,830 | L (75 mph) | 8 | 14, 15 | Highway, hot climates |
| Michelin XPS Rib | E | 3,042 | R (106 mph) | 10 | 16 | Highway, wet/dry |
| Suntek HD Plus | E | 3,520 | L (75 mph) | 14 | 16 | Highway, all-terrain |
| GREMAX Heavy All Steel | E | 4,080 | L (75 mph) | 14 | 16 | Highway, all-terrain |
| Kenda Klever ST | C, D | 1,820 – 2,540 | L (75 mph) | 8 | 14, 15 | Highway |
| Yokohama RY617 | E | 3,520 | L (75 mph) | 10 | 16 | Highway, light off-road |
| Zeemax All Steel | E | 4,080 | L (75 mph) | 14 | 16 | Highway, heavy-duty trailers |
| Sailun S637 | E | 3,520 – 4,080 | L (75 mph) | 10, 12 | 16 | Highway, all-terrain |
| Bridgestone Duravis M700 HD | E | 3,042 – 3,750 | R (106 mph) | 10 | 16, 17 | All-terrain, off-road |
| Firestone Transforce HT2 | E | 3,042 | R (106 mph) | 10 | 16 | Highway, wet/dry |
| Cooper Discoverer HT3 | D, E | 2,680 – 3,415 | R (106 mph) | 10 | 16 | Highway, wet conditions |
| Boto Tyres BT926 | E | 3,520 | M (81 mph) | 14 | 19.5 | Highway, wet conditions |
Related Trailer Tire Torque Specs(For All Trailer Types)
Key Tire Rating Categories Explained
1. Tire Size and Type
A tire’s size rating looks something like ST225/75R15. Let’s decode this:
- ST – Special Trailer, built specifically for towing applications.
- 225 – Tire width in millimeters.
- 75 – Aspect ratio, meaning the height of the sidewall is 75% of the tire’s width.
- R – Radial construction, the most common type for trailer tires.
- 15 – The wheel diameter in inches.
Trailer tires are either Radial (R) or Bias Ply (D). Radials are better for long-distance highway use, while bias ply tires are more durable for short hauls and rough terrain.
2. Load Range and Ply Rating
The load range rating is one of the most important numbers for trailer owners. It tells you the tire’s ability to carry weight and is often linked to ply rating (the strength of the tire’s construction). Load range is denoted by letters:
- Load Range C – 6-ply rating
- Load Range D – 8-ply rating
- Load Range E – 10-ply rating
A higher load range means the tire can carry more weight at higher air pressures. Always match or exceed the load range required by your trailer manufacturer to avoid overloading.
3. Load Index
The load index is a numerical value indicating the maximum weight each tire can support when properly inflated. For example, a load index of 117 means the tire can carry 2,833 pounds. Multiply this by the number of tires on your trailer to ensure it meets or exceeds your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
4. Speed Rating
Trailer tires also carry a speed rating, represented by a letter (such as L, M, or N). Most ST tires are rated for 65–75 mph. Exceeding the speed rating can cause excessive heat buildup, leading to premature wear or dangerous blowouts. Always drive within the recommended speed for your trailer tires.
5. Maximum Inflation Pressure
Every tire has a maximum cold inflation pressure, usually listed in PSI (pounds per square inch). Proper inflation is crucial because underinflated tires flex excessively, generating heat that leads to failure. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, wear unevenly and reduce road grip. Always check inflation before each trip and adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Why Tire Ratings Matter for Travel Trailers
- Safety – Choosing the right tires prevents accidents caused by blowouts or trailer sway.
- Longevity – Properly rated tires wear evenly and last longer.
- Fuel Efficiency – Correct tire size and inflation reduces rolling resistance, improving towing mileage.
- Peace of Mind – Knowing your tires are rated for your trailer’s load and conditions helps you travel with confidence.
Common Mistakes with Trailer Tire Ratings
- Using passenger car tires – These are not designed for heavy trailer loads and can cause instability.
- Ignoring load range – Even if the tire size fits, a lower load range rating can’t support the trailer’s weight.
- Overloading the trailer – Exceeding the tire’s load capacity is one of the leading causes of blowouts.
- Neglecting tire pressure – A perfectly rated tire can still fail if not properly inflated.
- Driving too fast – Exceeding the speed rating increases heat buildup and risks tire failure.
How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Travel Trailer
- Check your trailer’s GVWR and ensure your tires’ combined load capacity meets or exceeds that number.
- Match the size recommended by your manufacturer for proper fit and handling.
- Consider your usage – If you travel long distances on highways, go with radial tires. For rugged, short hauls, bias ply may be better.
- Choose the correct load range to handle your trailer’s weight safely.
- Stay within speed limits set by the tire’s speed rating.
Maintenance Tips for Trailer Tires
- Inspect regularly – Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
- Rotate tires – Even wear ensures longer life.
- Balance and align – Helps prevent vibration and improves stability.
- Store properly – Keep tires out of direct sunlight and off wet ground when not in use.
- Replace when needed – Even if the tread looks fine, tires older than 5–7 years should be replaced due to rubber degradation.
Final Thoughts
Travel trailer tire ratings are not just numbers on a sidewall, they are essential safety and performance indicators. Understanding size, load range, speed rating, and inflation requirements ensures your trailer is equipped to handle the road ahead.
By paying attention to these ratings and maintaining your tires properly, you can prevent breakdowns, extend tire life, and most importantly, keep your travels safe and enjoyable.
