What Are the Different Types of Motorhome Tires?

Motorhome tires are designed to fit Class A, B, and C sized RVs as well as towing trailers. Tires are typically separated within each class category by their weight bearing capabilities. Owners should have a general idea of the weight of their vehicle when fully loaded, as well as its sizing classification, when purchasing new tires for their motorhome.

The tires used to support motorhomes, sometimes referred to as recreational vehicles (RVs) or campers, are larger and more durable than those used on standard weight bearing vehicles like compact passenger cars. Motorhomes require equal suspension throughout the long body of the trailer, and can undergo extreme weight changes based on how the interior is loaded. These vehicles often carry appliances, furniture, dishes, linens, food, and passengers to recreate the feeling of traveling on the road with the comforts and amenities of home. The air pressure inside the tires can also affect the overall performance and safety of the motorhome on the road, and typically should be monitored closely before and after long periods of travel.

The type of motorhome tires that are initially recommended by the vehicle manufacturers are based on weight. Owners who are ready to replace their manufacturer issued tires can begin by filling their motorhome with a standard load of travel items. All appliances should be installed in their final locations as these can contribute up to 50% of the overall weight. Cabinets should also be filled with any dishes, linens, and necessities that owners intend to leave in the vehicle full time. Once the camper has been fully equipped, it may be taken to local truck platform scales to determine the size of the tires that will be needed to support its weight.

The largest size of motorhome tires available are designed to fit Class A motorized campers. This size tire can support between 15,000 and 30,000 pounds (6,804 to 13,608 kilograms) and fits onto a three to 10 ton truck body that is typically between 30 and 40 feet (9 to 12 meters) in length. Class C tires can support 10,000 to 12,000 pounds (4,536 to 5,443 kilograms) and sit on an expanded van frame that is 20 to 31 feet (6 to 9 meters) in length. Class B tires fit the smallest design in motorhomes, and are capable of carrying 6,000 to 8,000 pounds (2,721 to 3,639 kilograms) on a standard van body that is 17 to 19 feet (5 to 6 meters) long.

Some styles of RVs are designed to be pulled behind a large vehicle with towing capabilities, such as a truck or SUV. This style of camper requires smaller motorhome tires than those which feature a complete motor assembly and can be driven rather than towed. Towing tires must work together with the tires on the standard sized pulling vehicle without causing drag or friction, so they are designed with a lower tread depth and smaller rim width than those used on non-towing RVs. These tires are typically labeled for use with trailer towing only, and are also usable with pop-up campers, boat towing, and fifth wheel trailers.

All sizes of motorhome tires have built in features that make them highly durable to resist road damage and perform well in all weather situations. Each size is constructed from rubber with anti-oxidant and anti-ozone qualities that prevent the tire from cracking and peeling away from the wheel while in use. Treads are deep and spiral around the wheel to increase stability on wet or slick surfaces. High grade tire styles provide computer designed tread patterns that reduce the amount of friction felt by the driver, and give him a greater degree of control over the large vehicle when on the road.