Have you ever wondered what tires are best for your RV? RV tires are quite different from car tires. A motorhome or travel trailer weighs a lot more than a car, often 10,000 pounds or more when fully loaded. So, RV tires have to support that extra weight over long miles on the road.
Finding the right one is important for safety and comfort when traveling. Tires affect how your RV handles and how long the suspension system will last. With different sizes and weight ratings, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming.
RVing Insider will discuss the best RV tires and help you pick the suitable ones. Our roundup includes motorhome and travel trailer tire reviews from several top-tier brands.
Contents
Best Motorhome Tires (Class A, Class B, Class C)
We’ve rounded up RV tire reviews of eight top-of-the-line products and divided them into motorhome and travel trailer categories. First, let’s get started with these 4 top rated motorhomes tires.
We’ve tested several different brands to see how well they grip the road. After lots of miles, four tires stood out from the rest.
1. Michelin XRV Commercial Truck Radial Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Seasons: Year Round
- Size: 265/80R22.5
- Section Width: 235 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 2000 Pounds
- Maximum Pressure: 110 Pound per Square Inch
- Ply Rating: 14-Ply
- Tire Diameter: 38
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 37 x 37 x 9 inches
- Item Diameter: 37.1 Inches
Why we love it:
The Michelin XRV radial tires have impressive wide, see-through grooves that promote excellent drainage. On wet road trips, these grooves helped us feel confident maintaining control.
The multi-siping also delivered as advertised. We experienced dependable traction and noticed very even tread wear over thousands of miles.
The Michelin XRV provided a smooth, stable ride. Its specialized tread compounds keep the casing cool to boost durability. It helps with responsive handling whether fully loaded or empty. The enlarged sidewall writing makes checking our load and pressure a breeze.
After over a year, the tires still have plenty of tread left. A minor downside is they are a bit pricier than some brands.
Pros
- Provides excellent traction on wet roads
- Stable ride and responsive handling
- Extended tire durability
- Long tread life
Cons
- Higher initial cost compared to some competitor brands
2. Firestone Transforce HT2 Highway Terrain Commercial Light Truck Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Seasons: Non-winter
- Size: LT245/75R16
- Section Width: 245 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 3042 Pounds
- Tread Depth : 14 32nds
- Maximum Pressure: 80 Pound per Square Inch
- Ply Rating: E
- Rim Width: 7 Inches
- Tire Diameter: 30.50
Why we love it:
The Firestone Transforce HT2 tires excel at smoothly handling the heavy weight of our motorhome, whether fully loaded or not. With their optimized tire profile and commercial grade construction, these tires have lived up to their billing of improving uneven wear even under heavy loads.
On our many weekend trips over the past year, we’ve noticed that their tread pattern provides great traction on both wet and dry roads, helping us feel safe even in bad weather.
Sometimes, you may receive some out of round products. We’d advise using a tire balance machine to check for this sooner rather than later if buying online.
The Transforce HT2’s are budget-friendly, if not on the cheaper side. However, they’ve proven very much worth the investment given their durable 80,000+ mile treadwear.
Pros
- Provides smooth ride under heavy loads
- Can last over 80,000 miles
- Minimizes uneven wear from heavy loads
- Excellent traction on both wet and dry roads
- Commercially-rated for handling heavy weights
Cons
- Some tires might be imbalanced out of the box
- May not suitable for harsh winter
3. TOYO M170 Radial Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Seasons: Year Round
- Size: 295/75R22.5
- Section Width: 295 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 7160 Pounds
- Tread Depth : 18.8 32nds
- Tread Type: Non-Directional
- Ply Rating: 16-Ply
- Tire Diameter: 40.2 inches
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 40.2 x 40.2 x 11.1 inches
Why we love it:
We’ve been very pleased with the performance of Toyo M170 radial tires. They have proven to be reliable with excellent treadwear. After several thousand miles, the treads still look close to new with no abnormal or uneven wear showing.
The ride quality of the M170s is very good. They absorb bumps comfortably without feeling bouncy on the highway. Steering is predictable and stable in various road and weather conditions. Traction has been great even in rain, and the tires are doing well in wet winter weather too but it could be an issue in heavy rain and snow.
While the tires rode a bit stiff at first, they broke in nicely after a few hundred miles. They used to have a noticeable new tire smell that took a few months to wear off, but now we don’t notice any odor. Fuel efficiency seems average, which is not the best but not the worst either.
Pros
- Smooth, comfortable ride quality
- Excellent treadwear and long tread life
- Predictable handling in various conditions
- Durable construction
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Slightly stiff at initial break-in period
- Noticeable new tire smell
- Traction and wear could be issues in heavy weather
- Average fuel efficiency
4. Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 275/55R20 117H Light Truck Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Seasons: Year Round
- Size: 275/55R20 117H XL
- Section Width: 275 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 2940 Pounds
- Tread Depth: 12 32nds
- Tread Type: Non-Directional
- Maximum Pressure: 49 Pound per Square Inch
- Ply Rating: 2-Ply
- Rim Width: 8.86 Inches
Why we love it:
Yokohama Geolander AT G015 tires are a great all-around choice for a motorhome. They provide a cushy ride that doesn’t sacrifice handling or acceleration. But you may feel a bit bumpy on gravel roads.
We appreciate how quiet they are at highway speeds too. In wet conditions, these tires really shine. Their superb traction gives us confidence regardless of the road conditions.
The EdgeTec groove design does a great job of pushing away water, so we haven’t experienced any hydroplaning even in heavy rain. Grip feels totally secure when taking off from stop lights. And with the 3-peak mountain snowflake rating, we expect them to perform well in snow too. Multiple sets of 3D sipes optimize grip throughout the tire’s construction.
So far, braking distances in rain haven’t been an issue for us. However, you may experience slightly longer braking in real bad weather.
While not the cheapest tire option, the Geolander AT G015 offers safety on various road conditions. Their all-season abilities are perfect for an active motorhome lifestyle.
Pros
- Excellent wet and hydroplaning traction
- Comfortable ride at highway speeds
- Durable tread construction
- All-season capabilities
Cons
- Braking distance could be longer in bad weather
- Slightly pricier than some general tire options
- A little bumpy on gravel roads
Best Travel Trailer Tires
Travel trailers and fifth wheels need reliable tires to safely carry your belongings. Many trailer tires don’t last long and can cause problems. We’ll share reviews of four best options that are proven to perform well without costing a fortune.
5. GREMAX Heavy All Steel ST235/80R16 14PR RV Radial Trailer Tire
Spects at a glance:
- Season: Year Round
- Size: 235/80R16 All Steel
- Section Width: 235 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 4080 Pounds
- Tread Depth: 0.38 Inches
- Tread Type: Non-Directional
- Maximum Pressure: 110 Pound per Square Inch
- Ply Rating: 14-Ply
- Rim Width: 6.5 Inches
Why we love it:
At first glance, the GREMAX Heavy All Steel tires appear extremely heavy-duty with their solid steel construction and hefty load rating of over 4,000 pounds. Upon mounting them to our trailer, we could really feel their sturdiness.
Once on the road, we were impressed by how smoothly these tires rolled. Their deep 0.38-inch tread provided excellent traction and road grip in both dry and wet conditions.
We traveled over various terrains from highways to back roads without any issues. The trailer tracked straight and true behind our SUV. After hundreds of miles, the tires still had plenty of tread depth left.
While GREMAX tires performed very well, they were challenging to mount due to their rigid steel construction. It took us longer than expected, so these are best left to professional installers. We also noticed the tires ran slightly warmer than traditional rubber composite options. However, their durability and puncture resistance make up for this small negative.
Pros
- Heavy-duty all-steel construction
- Smooth riding with excellent traction
- Deep tread for long-lasting wear
- Durability and puncture resistance
Cons
- Manual mounting is quite challenging
- Run slightly warmer than composite alternatives
6. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire
Spects at a glance:
- Seasons: Non-winter
- Size: ST205/75R15 D
- Section Width: 205 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 2150 Pounds
- Tread Depth : 9 32nds
- Maximum Pressure: 65 Pound per Square Inch
- Ply Rating: 8
- Rim Width: 5.5 Inches
- Tire Diameter: 27.13
Why we love it:
Carlisle radial trail HD lives up to their reputation as some of the toughest and longest-lasting trailer tires on the market. After putting over 600 miles on our set, they still have a smooth ride and show no signs of wear. The tread depth is excellent for this point in the tire’s life.
Carlisle really delivers on their claims of a 10% improvement in tire life compared to previous models. This extended durability will save us money in the long run.
While not made in the USA as originally expected, the tires are well-constructed in China. We were concerned at first but they have proven to be good quality. Installation was effortless, with no need for weights to balance, and they hold air perfectly.
Though only rated for 82 mph, we’ve pushed them to 70 mph without issues. It’s reassuring to know we have some speed buffer if needed. For the great ride quality and durability at a budget-friendly price, the Carlisle radial trail HD earns our recommendation as one of the best RV trailer tires options.
Pros
- 10% longer tread life than previous models
- Hold air well with no leaks detected so far
- Stay balanced without need for weights
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Not made in the USA as the product description originally stated
- 82 mph speed rating may be inadequate for some travelers
7. eCustomRim Trailer Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Wheel Size: 15 Inches
- Pitch Circle Diameter: 4.5 Inches
- Item Diameter: 28 Inches
- Vehicle Service Type: Trailer
- Load Index: 101.00
- Rim Width: 5 Inches
Why we love it:
The eCustomRim trailer tires offer great value for money as the same brand and size would cost almost double elsewhere. They have a max load rating of over 1,800 pounds each, more than enough for our trailer. So far the ride has been very smooth and they’ve performed well on both short day trips and longer weekend getaways.
The reinforced shoulder tread and variable pitch provide good road contact and reduced road noise, making hauling our trailer down the highway comfortable. The two-year warranty with free roadside assistance is another positive side.
The only minor negative is that some rims had a rougher finish on the faces, though this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect performance.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Durable tread and reinforced shoulders
- Over 1,800 lb load rating
- Smooth ride and reduced road noise
- 2-year warranty with roadside assistance
Cons
- Some rim faces had rough finish
8. Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire
Specs at a glance:
- Seasons: Non-winter
- Size: 205/75R15
- Section Width: 205 Millimeters
- Load Capacity: 1820 Pounds
- Tread Depth : 9 32nds
- Ply Rating: 6-Ply
- Rim Width: 205 Millimeters
- Tire Diameter: 27.1
- Item dimensions L x W x H: 27.1 x 27.1 x 8.1 inches
Why we love it:
The Maxxis M8008 ST trailer tires offer great performance for the price. The advanced tread compound provides a smooth, quiet ride, while improving gas mileage when towing. And with double steel belts wrapped in nylon, these tires feel very sturdy under heavy loads.
One thing we noticed right away is that the M8008 feels more substantial than other trailer tires we’ve used. At just over 7.5 pounds each, they added stability to our trailer’s handling. After riding in various conditions, the tread wear has been minimal. We especially appreciate how well they grip in rainy conditions.
Of course, no tire is perfect. A minor complaint is that the sidewalls look a bit more vulnerable than other top brands. Also, old stock tires may be shipped with Amazon orders. However, for most RVers and owners of smaller trailers, the Maxxis M8008 offers reliability, puncture resistance, and long tread life at a very fair price point.
Pros
- Smooth, quiet ride
- Improves towing fuel economy
- Double steel belts and nylon cap provide puncture resistance
- Tread wear is minimal
- Grip well in rain for safety
Cons
- Sidewalls could potentially be more robust
- Possible to receive old stock tires through some sellers
The Criteria for Choosing the Best RV Tires
Deciding on tires for your RV requires considering more factors than for regular cars. RV tires have to carry a lot of extra weight so you need ones made specifically for that.
Different types of RV tires are suited to varied needs. Knowing these things will help you select tires that last longer and make towing safer on every adventure.
1. Tire Type
One of the most significant factors of choosing an RV tire is to pick up the right type. There are different RV categories and they require specific types of tires.
Radial Tires
Radial tires feature steel cables arranged perpendicularly across the tread. This unique construction allows each part of the tire to work separately. As a result, radials offer better gas mileage, stronger grip on the road, and stay cooler even after hours behind the wheel. Their tread also tends to last longer before needing replacement.
The independent function of radial belts means a plusher ride quality over long distances. For RVers who take frequent multi-day trips, radial tires are the best choice. You’ll feel less fatigued after many touring miles thanks to decreased vibrations. However, their construction isn’t as rugged as bias tires for very heavy loads or demanding off-road use.
On the downside, radials do come with a higher initial price tag compared to other options. But their tread can go over 20,000 miles before replacement, making them a more economical option if you log big annual miles.
Bias Tires
Bias tires have crossed cords at an angle inside that make them strong but shorter-lasting. They are a good choice if you tow a large trailer or fifth wheel RV. Their crisscrossing cords allow the whole tire to flex smoothly over bumpy roads. This flexibility means they can withstand heavy loads and tough off-road conditions better than radials. However, their tread doesn’t last as long as radials, needing replacement every 12,000 miles or so.
Some RV owners choose bias tires because they do shorter trips or travel on rough backcountry roads. The added strength of these tires helps in those situations. They also tend to have thicker sidewalls, providing more protection against punctures. While bias tires don’t last as long overall, their initial cost is usually lower than radials too.
Special Trailer (ST) Tires
ST tires are designed just for travel trailers and fifth wheelers. Unlike regular car tires, they don’t need to provide lots of traction since the trailer wheels aren’t powering the vehicle.
The tires are engineered to make the trailer ride smoothly without any bumps or resistance. They use special cords and wires that make the tires extremely strong and durable. This helps keep the trailer stable as it’s being towed and prevents it from swaying side to side.
The unique design of ST tires supports the heavy load of a trailer without issues. Towing one loaded with gear and people can put a lot of pounds on those wheels. The tires are crafted to safely carry big weights over long distances without problems. STs make towing a trailer with an RV feel controlled and steady.
Light Truck (LT) Tires
These tires have thicker sides that don’t bend as much as normal car tires. This means they can hold their shape better when carrying a heavy load, like your RV. At the same time, they still provide a comfortable ride. The thicker sides support the RV without feeling bumpy.
Another benefit of LT tires is traction. They grip the road surface better than standard tires when your RV is in motion. This improves handling whether you’re going straight or making turns.
LT tires are made for hauling heavy loads over long distances. They distribute the RV’s weight across the tire properly without allowing it to wear down quickly. Their durability makes them a top choice for class A, B, and C recreational vehicles.
2. Tire Weight Rating
The RV tires should properly handle the weight of your vehicle. Your RV’s owner’s manual will tell you the recommended tire size for your rig. It’s really important to follow this guideline. If the tires can’t support the total weight, they’ll wear out quicker and could even blow out while driving.
Check the tires currently on your RV and find numbers, like 315/80 R22.5 121H. It’ll tell you about the required size. Here, 315 indicates the tire wall’s width (in mm), 80 is the wall height as a percent of the width, R means Radial tires, and 22.5 is the wheel rim size (in inches).
The last digit 121 is the weight rating that determines the load a single tire can carry. So, if your RV tire’s weight rating is 121, it can carry 3,297 lbs. In that case, four tires can carry a maximum weight of 4 x 3,297 = 13,188 lbs.
If you’re changing your RV tires, the new ones’ load index should be more or equal to the old ones. Also, consider the class if you have a motorhome. For example, a big Class A may need tires that can hold 15,000 to 30,000 pounds, while a small Class B RV may only need 6,000 to 8,000 pound tires.
3. Tread Pattern
The tread is what gives your tires traction on the road. You’ll want a tread that matches where you plan to drive your RV most.
If you’ll be sticking mostly to paved roads, an all-season tread is a good choice. Tires with all-season treads grip well in both wet and dry conditions on pavement. They’re a versatile option that will work well for driving to campgrounds and parks.
Do you enjoy exploring forest service roads when you camp? Then, an off-road tread may be best. Tires with aggressive off-road tread patterns dig into loose surfaces, like dirt and gravel. They provide superior traction for navigating bumpy back roads. Just keep in mind they may not be as smooth or quiet on long highway drives.
For long distance traveling mainly on major highways, look at tires with highway tread. As the name suggests, these tires are engineered to maximize mileage and reduce road noise.there shallow treads are good for dry and wet road surfaces.
Taking the time to match your tire’s tread to your roads saves money in the long run. It ensures the right grip and performance for how you travel with your RV.
4. Speed Rating
Not all tires can safely handle the same speeds. Tires with a low rating could be dangerous if you drive faster than they’re meant for. So think about how fast you usually go. Do you keep it slow on back roads or cruise the interstate?
Most motorhome tires can handle up to 75 miles per hour. Fifth wheel and travel trailer tires might be rated for only 60 to 65 miles per hour. Going over the rating won’t instantly cause a blowout. But driving too fast for too long can overheat the tires, leading to damage over time.
Look near the tire size on the sidewall to find the letter rating, such as G, J, K, or L. These letters mean 56, 62, 68, or 75 miles per hour respectively.
5. Season
Which season do you plan to do most of your traveling? The tires you need will depend on whether you drive in cold or icy areas during winter. Tires that are worn down or bald don’t grip the road as well. This means it’s harder to steer and stop, so you could slide off the road or lose control more easily.
If you travel to snowy places, special snow tires are a good choice. Snow tires have thicker tread patterns that help you drive on slippery surfaces covered with ice and snow. You can switch to your snow tires before going somewhere that gets a lot of winter weather. Some areas even require vehicles to carry snow chains that fit over the tires for extra traction in bad conditions.
6. Brand
Consider brand when shopping for your RV’s tires/ Go with one that’s well known for making quality tires. Check how long they’ve been around. RV tires take a lot of wear and tear pulling a big rig down the road.
You want a brand with experience building durable tires. Look at reviews too to see what other RV owners say about different brands.
Conclusion
Choosing the right RV tires is important for safety and comfort. By considering tire type, weight rating, tread pattern, and a few more factors, you can find the perfect tires for your camping adventures. Remember, always check your RV’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
