Bias Trailer Tire versus Radial Trailer Tires
Trailer tires come in all different sizes to fit a variety of a trailer types and applications. Most trailer tires can be broken down in to distinct categories. Bias ply trailer tires and radial trailer tires.
Bias ply trailer tires are built with "plies" which are rubber covered nylon or polyester layers that are laid out in an angle to the 30 to 45 degrees off of the center of the tire in alternating directions. Many Bias Ply Trailer Tires feature fiberglass belts for added reinforcement. The main advantage of Bias Ply Trailer Tires is their rugged sidewall which helps them stand up to the abuses that many trailer tires are put through. Bias Ply Trailer Tires are often less expensive then radial trailer tires, which make them an excellent solution for trailers that are not used often or are used on only around town. Another advantage that bias ply trailer tires have over radial tires is their load carrying capacity.
Radial Trailer Tires are more similar to today’s passenger and light truck tires. Radial Trailer Tires features polyester cords that are laid out and overlapped at 90 degrees off of the center of the tire. These tires also feature steel mesh belts which provide better flexibility and increased contact between the tire and the road. The main advantages of radial trailer tires are a smoother ride, less road noise, longer tread life, increased fuel economy and cooler operation to minimize tire blowouts at highway speeds.