7. Freestar M-108

What Recent Buyers Report

Numerous recent buyers have expressed their satisfaction with the tire’s performance, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles. They report excellent performance on rough ranch roads and commend the product’s affordability.

What Sets It Apart

The Freestar M-108 boasts several outstanding features that make it a valuable addition to any vehicle. Its durable rubber compound ensures longevity, even under challenging conditions. Furthermore, it has a respectable load rating, enabling it to support heavier loads. These attributes, combined with its budget-friendly price, make it a worthwhile investment.

Bottom Line

In summary, the Freestar M-108 is an affordable option for RV owners who frequently travel. Its groove design effectively repels water and maintains performance on heated roads. The tire’s easy installation process adds to its user-friendly appeal. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective tire solution.

Trailer Tire Buyer’s Guide

Now it’s time to look more into travel trailer tyres. In this buyer’s guide we look at the different types of tires and compare the different brands. We also look at the price entries, because you do get what you pay for and with safety being our main concern, it’s important to know what you’re getting in general.

We’ve also included a comprehensive FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailer tires, so by the end of the article, you’ll have a much better understanding of what to look for.

Versatility

The products we talk about are adaptable to many environments and work under different weather conditions. This translates to the fact that your trailer will be able to travel smoothly despite the weather condition.

Durability

Trailer tires can be expensive and therefore, should be durable. All the products we talk about are made with great quality materials and therefore, will last a good amount of time.

Compatibility

Your trailer tire should be compatible with famous trailer brands. All the products on our list are compatible with famous brands such as Big Tex, Carry On, etc.

Sidewall Pressure

It is important for a trailer tire to be able to handle maximum pressure. If you invest in a low-quality tire, it will fold during traveling, which is an unpleasant experience. All of the reviewed products have incredible sidewall strength.

Type

Previously, we have discussed the types of RV tires. These types have their own pros and cons and those differ according to your intended use. So, familiarize yourself with all the types before settling on one.

Weight and Size

This is the most important factor to consider before investing in this product. You need to be aware of whether the tires you plan on investing in are capable of supporting your trailer’s weight when it is completely loaded. This is not a factor you would want to ignore.

Longevity

Nobody enjoys having to invest in new RV tires because your old ones folded or wore out just after a little use. Therefore, the solution to avoiding this situation is investing in tires of great quality, which last longer. This could save you money and precious time in the long term.

Types of Trailer Tires

You might not have known this before, but trailer tires are broadly classified into two types. Knowing about these types could help you make a better decision when buying. The major difference between the two types is in the positioning of the cord inside them. Radial tires are more widely used nowadays.

Bias Ply Tires

The nylon and steel cord is at a 30-degree angle in bias ply tires. Some people may prefer this kind as it has stronger sidewalls due to its cross hatch construction. These may not be the choice for normal trailer use, though. These are more for cargo transport and rough usage since they have a higher rolling resistance. These are, however, less expensive than their radial counterparts.

Radial Tires

These are the ones to invest in for normal trailer use. The steel plies actually run at a 90-degree angle across the tires. They have a tough and sturdy overall construction as they use steel belts. They have a longer life and leave a large footprint. Furthermore, these consume less fuel.

Top Brands in Trailer Tires

Tires, like most automobile parts, have established brands and less reputable brands. In this section, we’re focusing on our 3 favorite trailer tire brands that you can trust. Here’s more about each: 

Goodyear

Goodyear is not only one of the biggest names in trailer tires, but one of the biggest names in all tires. If you want an example of a quality Goodyear trailer tire, simply refer to our list above. The American tire giant is over 120 years old at this point, and its reputation has always been for quality tires at fair prices.

Goodyear takes this vast experience and applies it to their lineup of tires. It makes an excellent horse trailer, utility trailer, and boat trailer tire, just to name a few, and might be the right tire for your travel trailer.

Trailer King

Trailer King is notable because it specializes in trailer tires, unlike many other tire brands. Trailer King’s priority is utility trailer tires, and it’s built a dependable brand that offers high-quality at fair prices. Trailer King has a comprehensive lineup of tires suitable for light trailers as well as heavy load rating options for heavy-duty applications.

Trailer King is an American company that has been making tires for over fifty years. It is a subsidiary of TBC Brands, which offers a more extensive lineup of tires for commercial, agricultural, and specialty purposes.     

Carlisle

Headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ, Carlisle recently celebrated its 100th year in business. It markets a wide range of products for niche applications, with trailer tires being among its best-selling product lines. It has an extensive lineup that covers everything from boat trailer tires to horse trailer tires to heavy-duty commercial applications. Carlisle’s mission is to provide “advanced technology that offers protection and durability for both work and play”.  

Price Points of Trailer Tires

Tires can range in price quite considerably, and trailer tires are no exception. In this section, we’re examining the typical “range” of prices you can expect for this product category and let you know whether it’s worth it to pay more. 

Important Note: Before getting to our tiered list, there are a few caveats worth mentioning. More money doesn’t always mean higher quality. It might be the case that more expensive tires simply net you bigger tires or tires that are capable of towing higher loads.

You will probably need to spend more if your towing needs are extensive. Additionally, you might also be paying for the brand name alone. That said, here’s what you can generally expect to pay:  

$50-$80 – Cheap

Trailer tires that cost $50-$80 are about as cheap as they come. They will likely be smaller tires not rated for carrying heavy loads. You won’t be purchasing tires that you can expect to last for years. That said, tires need to meet a minimum legal standard, so any tires you purchase will be of somewhat acceptable quality. 

$80-$150 – Average

Tires in this price range are a noticeable step-up. They are generally rated for heavier loads and have more advanced grip patterns for better traction. This range is also where you’d expect to find tires from reputable brand names (such as the ones we mentioned above). 

$150+ – Premium

Premium trailer tires mean that the tires are suitable for heavy jobs. If you have a serious trailer load (livestock, hauling vehicles, etc.), then you need heavy-duty trailer tires. These tires are big and have advanced grip patterns for long-lasting use. They can cost well above $150 at the high end. 

Are Trailer Tires Universal?

Trailer tires are available in different sizes, depending on their compatibility with the vehicle. Some vehicles require smaller tires, whereas others require much bigger ones. This all depends upon the design of the vehicle and the purpose it is supposed to serve.

Tires are divided into two main groups, 12-inch and smaller, and 13-inch and larger. The former has sizes written in a two-number format, depending on what the size is. On the other hand, the latter is listed as three numbers. 

Different numbers have different meanings. Some sizes begin with ST, which stands for a special trailer and indicates that it is to be used on a trailer or an RV only. So, compatibility and size of tires make them specific to certain vehicles and not universal.

Comparison Overview

As you drive on the road, you can see various types of vehicles. From cars and motorcycles to trailers and trucks, each vehicle requires a specific tire size. Below are a few comparisons among different tire types.

Bias Ply vs. Radial Trailer Tires

Trailer Tires vs. Car Tires

Cars are used for frequent and high-speed traveling, whereas trailers are often used as a towing or a slower-speed vehicle. This is why the design of tires for both these vehicles are different.

Car tires are made to handle more traction on turns and slippery tracks. They have a thick tread, which helps in doing so. On the other hand, trailer tires have thicker outer walls to handle any object which comes towards them.

Trailer Tires vs. Passenger Tires

Passenger tires are similar to car tires in terms of design. They are used primarily for personal purposes and are fitted in daily-use vehicles like hatchback, coupes, and crossovers. Driving on slippery tracks or on sharp turns is suitable with a trailer tire.

As far as trailer tires are concerned, these are designed to be on a trailing vehicle. They are made to support any object on the road projected towards them, as already mentioned above.

Maxxis vs. Carlisle Trailer Tires

These are two popular tire manufacturers. Let’s compare the two.

Carlisle

A classic tire manufacturing firm was founded in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, back in 1917. They are famous for their tires and wheels, specifically for trailers, farming, and gardening equipment. Their most known product is the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tires.

Maxxis

Founded in 1967, Maxxis started its manufacturing with bicycle tires in Taiwan. Since then, they have expanded rapidly and now produce tires and other products for almost every vehicle. Their best-known trailer tire is the Maxxis Radial Trailer Tire. 

8-Ply vs. 10-Ply Trailer Tires

A ply rating is used to express the capacity of the strength of a tire. Different ratings are depending on the type and quality. The tire to be selected for a trailer depends on what the usage will be. 

The condition of different tracks of the regular route will help in choosing a suitable tire. An eight-ply tire is good enough for a regular trailer traveling. Meanwhile, a 10-ply rated model is suitable for off-roading with heavy loads.

10-Ply vs. 14-Ply Trailer Tires

As mentioned before, the higher the ply rating of a tire, the higher it’s capacity to bear heavier loads. So, 14-ply trailer tires are better in managing load than a 10-ply tire. 

A 10-ply tire can handle up to 1,520 lbs at 80 psi, whereas a 14-ply tire can bear around 4080 lbs at 110 psi.

FAQs About Trailer Tires

Since purchasing a tire trailer is a difficult task and is a big investment as well, people generally have some common questions. Here are the answers to questions trailer owners often have when they go to purchase a tire.

Are Radial Tires Better for Trailers?

Generally speaking, yes. Radial tires are made by overlapping polyester cords, and with steel mesh belts for extra strength. In simplest terms, radial tires are smoother, stronger, and more reliable than their main alternative – bias-ply tires. Radial tires perform better in almost every category except (you guessed it) price!

What is the Difference Between D and R Trailer Tires?

Similar to the question directly above, D indicates a bias-ply tire, while R indicates a radial tire. The difference is in the construction, with a radial tire tending to offer a tread design with better contact, more traction, and higher stability. In other words, unless you already have three bias-ply tires on your trailer, radial tires are almost always preferred. Once again, also note that radial tires tend to cost more.

What PSI Should Trailer Tires Be?

Generally speaking, you want trailer tires to be near-maximum-rated pressure. Aim for between 50 to 65 psi, unless there are specific instructions on your tires that state otherwise. This information should be on the sidewall.

The higher the pressure, the higher the load capacity. And since trailers are designed for heavy loads, you’ll want to keep them well-inflated. 

What Does the D Stand for on Trailer Tires?

The D on trailer tires indicates that they are bias-ply tires. Bias-ply have cords that run at a 32-degree angle to the direction they are traveling. This design is in contrast with radial ply tires, which run at a 90-degree angle. As per our answer above, radial tires are preferable to bias-ply but also cost more.

Are Wider Trailer Tires Better?

It depends. Wider tires tend to offer more stability and reduce trailer sway. The important caveat is that you need to make sure your trailer can have wider tires installed. Load capacity, which indicates how much the tire is rated to haul, is more important than width.  

How Long Do Trailer Tires Last?

Of course, the answer is it depends. It depends on the tires you buy, it depends on how often you use them, it depends on how well you take care of them, and it depends on the loads you are hauling. That said, with proper care, maintenance, and regular use, you can expect a good trailer tire to last around five years, with variability at each end. 

Why Aren’t Trailer Tires Balanced?

Trailer tires often are not balanced because it’s not as necessary to balance these tires. The tires in your car are balanced because they need to safely take turns and keep your car moving in a predictable direction. Trailer tires only need to support a load and rely on the towing vehicle to determine their direction. That is not to say that you can’t balance trailer tires or that they shouldn’t be somewhat balanced, just that it isn’t as imperative as balancing a passenger car.

How Much Are Trailer Tires?

The price of these depends on various factors. There are several options available on the market for you to choose from. The average tire costs anywhere between $150 and $200. Some premium models also go as high as $300. On the other hand, affordable products can be purchased at $60-$70.

Should You Balance Trailer Tires?

Trailer tires are mainly designed to withhold the vertical load, rather than providing extra grip on sharp turns. Therefore, they do not need to be balanced particularly, but it is advised to do so for an optimal and safe experience.

Why Do Trailer Tires Blow Out?

Reports of tire blowouts are quite common, and it happens because of a number of reasons. Firstly, they blow out due to a lack of appropriate inflation. The second-most common reason is the overloading of the vehicle. This puts extra pressure on the tires, which causes heat to build up inside the tire, ultimately leading to a blowout.

What is Load Range C on Trailer Tires?

The load range can be described as the capacity or the psi rating of a tire. So, if a tire indicates load range C, it means it can carry up to 1820 lbs at 90 psi. In the case of a single-axle trailer, this indicates that both tires can carry a combined weight of 3640 lbs.

What Are Load Ranges For D and E Trailer Tires?

There are multiple types of load ranges. So, a load range D means a tire has a capacity of 1,220 lbs at 65 psi, whereas the load range E can carry up to 1,520 lbs at 80 psi.

Are Trailer Tires Different From Car Tires?

Yes, trailer tires are largely different from car tires. Trailer tires have a more rigid sidewall so they can prevent sway, whereas car tires are more flexible for a comfortable ride. Trailer tires have bias ply and radial construction whereas car tires are mostly radial only.

What Do The Numbers on Trailer Tires Mean?

The numbers indicate important information like the max load capacity, tire size, etc., all of which you must consider before investing in a tire.

What Are ST Trailer Tires?

ST stands for special trailer tires. These are tires which can handle heavier loads and are built for utility trucks and cargo transport. They have a thicker sidewall which aids in doing this.

How to Keep Trailer Tires From Dry Rotting

Dry rotting can be a result of lack of use, storage near a heat source, and low inflation. All of this contributes majorly to dry rotting. A simple way to prevent this is to keep them updated, maintained, away from extreme climatic conditions, and are checked at least once a month.

How Long Are Trailer Tires Good For?

This actually depends upon your usage, whether you use your trailer often or just on weekends or even less. Furthermore, it also depends on the conditions you use it in. For instance, if you use it in harsh weather conditions and rough terrains, you will see more wear and tear and they may need to be replaced sooner.

Where Are Maxxis Trailer Tires Made?

Maxxis tires are made in the U.S.A. and are headquartered there as well. It is an international company which has been around for over 50 years and has provided excellent quality products for all these years.

Where Are Carlisle Trailer Tires Made?

Carlisle is headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee and has been around for many years. They have provided the world with great technology and excellent tire designs.

Where Are Rainier Trailer Tires Made?

Rainier makes some of the best travel trailer tires in the market. They are durable and have a high load capacity. These are some of the most popular ones. The tires themselves are made in China.

Where Are Greenball Trailer Tires Made?

Greenball tires are made in China. They do not make the tires themselves but in fact, are a rebranding company. These tires are definitely some of the best in the market.

Where Are Trailer King Trailer Tires Made?

Trailer King has been around in the industry for over fifty years. They are a top-notch brand. They have, throughout these years, made top quality and reliable products and built a good reputation. These are also made in China under strict quality standards.