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Understanding the Types of RV Tires

May. 29 2023 Accessory Buying Guide By RV Outfitters of Texas

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Using the wrong type of tire for your RV can have disastrous consequences, and which tires will be compatible with your camper is not always obvious. That’s why the experts at RV Outfitters of Texas have created this guide to understanding the different types of RV tires. With this information, finding the right kind of tires for your RV should be a snap!

Light Truck vs. Special Trailer

There are two types of RV tires: light truck (LT) and special trailer (ST). In general, LT tires are best for motorhomes, and ST tires are best for towable RVs. 

LT Tires

LT tires:

  • Are built for rigs larger than a small pickup truck
  • Are made with more material than commuter vehicle tires to reinforce the sidewalls
  • Can handle a heavier load

ST Tires

ST tires:

  • Are made with stronger sidewalls to handle the heavy weight that trailers place on tires
  • Are made to reduce trailer sway
  • Are not designed for steering or transferring power from the engine to the road, making them unsuitable for motorhomes

Bias vs. Radial Tires

RV tires can also be classified as bias or radial. Each type is geared towards different types of road

Bias RV Tires

 Bias RV tires have:

  • A sturdy sidewall that handles heavier loads
  • A lower chance of a blowout
  • An average lifespan of around 12,000 miles

Which makes them better for traveling uneven roads. 

Radial RV Tires

Radial RV tires have:

  • Better traction
  • Increased stability
  • Longer-lasting tread and reduced fuel consumption 
  • An overall smoother ride
  • An average lifespan of around 40,000 miles

Which makes them better for highway travel. 

Reading the RV Tire Sidewall

The sidewall of an RV tire can tell you a lot about it. The first letters are the tire type (LT or ST). The first numbers are the tire's width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. The next set of numbers is the tire's aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire's cross-section to its width expressed as a percentage. The last letter tells you whether the tire is radial or bias. Finally, the last number tells you the tire’s diameter. 

We here at RV Outfitters of Texas hope this guide has been helpful to you. For more information, or to view our selection of RV tires and other parts, visit our dealership in Nacogdoches, Texas. We also have a selection of new and pre-owned RVs, along with financing options and a fully equipped service department. We are proud to be able to serve communities like Lufkin, Texas, and we hope to see you soon!