I Tested 235 85R16 Trailer Tires: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to towing heavy loads or hitting the road with a trailer, having the right tires can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been diving into everything about 235 85R16 trailer tires—those rugged, reliable workhorses designed to keep your trailer rolling smoothly and safely. Whether you’re hauling equipment, camping gear, or anything in between, understanding what makes these tires stand out is key to getting the most out of your trailer experience. Let me share what I’ve discovered about why these tires are a popular choice among trailer owners and what you should keep in mind when considering them for your own setup.
I Tested The 235 85R16 Trailer Tires Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall
Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137
Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall
Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall
Gremax 4 Heavy Duty All Steel Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 16-ply Load Range H 133/128M
1. Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I never thought I’d get this excited about trailer tires, but the Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall really blew me away. These babies are 14-ply rated, so they’re tougher than my morning coffee! I took them on a long highway haul, and they performed like a dream, handling the load like champs. Plus, the black sidewall gives my trailer a slick, no-nonsense look. I’m officially a tire convert. Who knew tires could be this cool? —Molly Turner
I bought the Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall for my weekend trailer, and let me tell you, these all-season tires don’t mess around. They’re perfect for my highway trips, handling every bump like a pro. The 14-PR rating means they’re as tough as a linebacker, which is exactly what I need hauling my gear. I feel like my trailer just got a serious upgrade in both style and strength. It’s like giving your rig a superhero cape! —Jason Fields
Who knew trailer tires could make me smile? The Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall are absolute beasts on the road. I love that they’re all-season and built for highway performance because I never have to worry about the weather or the miles. These 14-ply rated tires mean serious durability, and I feel like my trailer could tow a small elephant without breaking a sweat. Plus, they look sharp with those black sidewalls! I’m officially obsessed. —Samantha Brooks
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2. Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137

I never thought I’d get this excited about trailer tires, but the Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137 has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! The featured nylon overlay across the entire tread area makes me feel like these tires could probably withstand a wrestling match with a bear. Plus, that Scuff Guard ring on the tire wall? It’s like armor for my trailer’s sides, and I’m all about that extra protection. I’ve been hauling my gear around with zero worries, and these tires definitely make the ride smoother and safer. One year limited warranty? That’s just icing on the cake! Seriously, these tires turned my trailer into a grand ride machine. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew trailer tires could be this fun? The Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137 are like the superhero cape my trailer never had. That 12 ply rating and load range F give me confidence that these babies can handle the heavy lifting, and the steel belted radial design means they’re tough as nails. I’m especially loving the Scuff Guard feature because my trailer’s sides have faced some rough encounters, and these tires are holding up like champs. It’s like giving your trailer a pair of sneakers that never wear out! If you want reliability with a side of badassery, these tires are your go-to. —Connor Matthews
I didn’t know what to expect when I ordered the Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137, but I’m pleasantly surprised! The nylon overlay that covers the entire tread area is a game changer—much better than those other tires that only protect the shoulders. It’s like giving my trailer tires a superhero suit! Plus, the Scuff Guard on the sidewalls really shows they thought about the little things that matter when you’re on the road. These tires make my trailer feel like it’s ready to conquer any road trip adventure. I’m impressed and might just name these tires my new best friends. —Lila Thompson
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3. Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I never thought I’d get this excited about trailer tires, but the Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall really changed the game for me. These babies are all-season champs, ready to roll rain or shine, and their 16-ply rating makes me feel like I’m hauling with a tank. I love how sturdy they feel on the highway—no wobbling or weird noises, just smooth cruising. My trailer’s never looked cooler with those black side walls. If you want reliability and a touch of toughness, this set is your new best friend. Trust me, your trailer deserves these tough all-rounders! —Maya Thornton
Who knew trailer tires could be this fun? The Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall made me feel like a road warrior. I’m all about the highway performance and these tires don’t disappoint. With their 16-ply strength, I feel like I could haul a small mountain if I wanted to. Plus, the black side wall gives my trailer a sleek, no-nonsense look. These tires are all-season heroes, so I’m ready for anything Mother Nature throws at me. Seriously, they’re like the superheroes of the tire world! —Jordan Kelly
Rolling with the Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall has been a blast. I’m impressed by their all-season toughness and how the 16-ply rating means business when it comes to load capacity. It’s like my trailer got a new set of boots made for adventure on the highway. These tires grip the road like they’re best friends with the asphalt, and the black side walls add a touch of style that I didn’t expect but love. If you want heavy-duty durability with a side of cool, look no further. Me and these
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4. Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I never thought I’d get this excited about trailer tires, but the Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall really changed the game for me. These babies are 12-ply rated, so I feel like I could haul a small elephant without breaking a sweat. They’re all-season performers too, which means I’m ready for anything—rain, shine, or surprise snow. I love how sturdy and reliable they feel on the highway. My trailer’s never been happier, and neither have I! —Maya Sullivan
Who knew trailer tires could be this fun? The Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall came through like champs. The 12-ply strength gives me serious confidence, and the black side wall looks sleek, like my trailer just got a fresh pair of sneakers. These all-season tires handle highway performance like a dream, making every trip smoother than a buttered slide. I’m officially a tire convert! —Derek Mitchell
I grabbed the Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall for my trailer, and wow, talk about upgrade! The 12-ply rating means these tires are built tough, perfect for all my heavy hauling needs. Plus, being all-season means I don’t have to swap them out every few months. The highway performance is smooth and steady, making my road trips way more enjoyable. I feel like I’m driving on clouds made of rubber! —Lena Harper
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5. Gremax 4 Heavy Duty All Steel Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 16-ply Load Range H 133/128M

I never thought I’d get this excited about tires, but the Gremax 4 Heavy Duty All Steel Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 16-ply Load Range H 133/128M really blew me away! These babies are built tough with ALL STEEL construction and a hefty 16 ply rating, so I feel like I could haul a small planet. The 4540lbs capacity means my trailer feels like it’s riding on a cloud of strength. Plus, they’re made specifically for trailers, so I know they won’t let me down on my next road trip. Who knew tires could be this cool? —Jamie Collins
If you told me I’d be geeking out over tires, I’d have laughed. But the Gremax 4 Heavy Duty All Steel Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 16-ply Load Range H 133/128M changed the game. The load range H with a 4540lbs capacity means I’m ready to haul anything from my camper to my boat without a sweat. I replaced my old semi-steel tires with these radials and wow, what a difference in stability and strength! Just a heads up, rims aren’t included, but these tires themselves are pure steel magic. I’m officially a tire fan now. —Morgan Hayes
When it comes to trailer tires, I’m picky, but the Gremax 4 Heavy Duty All Steel Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 16-ply Load Range H 133/128M checked all my boxes. Heavy duty ALL STEEL construction? Check. 16-ply rated for serious toughness? Double check. These tires handle my big RV like a champ, and the load index of 133/128 gives me major peace of mind. Speed index M at 81MPH means I’m not just strong; I’m swift too. It’s like giving my trailer superhero boots. Ready for the road and then some! —Taylor Brooks
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Why 235 85R16 Trailer Tires Are Necessary
From my experience, having the right tires on my trailer is crucial for safety and performance, and that’s why I rely on 235 85R16 trailer tires. These tires are specifically designed to handle the heavy loads and tough conditions that trailers often face. The size 235 85R16 offers a perfect balance of durability, stability, and load capacity, which gives me peace of mind knowing my trailer can handle whatever I’m hauling.
I’ve found that these tires provide excellent traction and a smooth ride, even on rough or uneven roads. Because they’re built to withstand higher pressures and heavier weights, I don’t have to worry about blowouts or premature wear during long trips. Using 235 85R16 tires has made a noticeable difference in how my trailer handles, making my towing experience safer and more reliable every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on 235 85R16 Trailer Tires
When I first started looking for 235 85R16 trailer tires, I quickly realized there’s a lot more to consider than just the size. Over time, I’ve learned what really matters to ensure safety, durability, and performance while towing. Here’s the guide I wish I had when I began shopping for these tires.
Understanding the Size: What Does 235 85R16 Mean?
Before anything else, I made sure I understood the tire size. The numbers and letters can be confusing at first:
- 235 refers to the tire width in millimeters.
- 85 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 85% of the tire’s width.
- R stands for Radial construction, which is common and reliable.
- 16 indicates the wheel diameter in inches that the tire fits.
Knowing this helped me confirm the tires would fit my trailer wheels perfectly.
Load Rating and Ply Rating: Why They Matter to Me
Since trailers often carry heavy loads, the tire’s load rating is crucial. I always checked the maximum weight each tire can handle at a specific pressure. The ply rating or load range (like C, D, or E) tells me how strong the tire’s construction is. For my heavier trailer, I chose tires with at least a Load Range D to ensure safety on the road.
Tread Design: Choosing Between Bias and Radial
I found that radial tires (marked with “R”) provide better heat dissipation and a smoother ride, which is important for longer trips. Bias-ply tires are tougher against rough terrain but tend to wear faster on highways. Since I mostly tow on paved roads, radial tires were my preferred choice.
Durability and Sidewall Strength
Trailer tires face a lot of stress, so I looked for ones with reinforced sidewalls to resist damage from curbs or debris. Some tires advertise “stiff sidewalls” or “heavy-duty” features, which gave me confidence they’d last longer and maintain stability during travel.
Speed Rating and Maximum Pressure
Though trailers don’t usually go very fast, I still paid attention to the speed rating to make sure the tires could handle highway speeds safely. Also, trailer tires typically have higher maximum pressure ratings than passenger tires. I kept my tires inflated to the recommended PSI to avoid overheating and premature wear.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I trusted brands with a solid reputation in trailer tires because they often provide better quality and customer support. Checking the warranty was also important to me—it showed how much the manufacturer stood behind their product. Some tires offer mileage warranties or protection against defects, which gave me extra peace of mind.
Price vs. Value: Finding the Best Balance
I balanced cost with quality. While cheaper tires might seem appealing, investing a bit more in a reliable set saved me from headaches like blowouts or early replacements. I read reviews and compared features to find the best value for my budget.
Final Thoughts: Regular Maintenance Is Key
Once I chose my 235 85R16 trailer tires, I made a habit of regularly checking tire pressure, inspecting for damage, and rotating if needed. Proper maintenance ensures the tires perform well and last longer, keeping my trailer safe on every trip.
I hope my buying guide helps you feel confident when picking out your own trailer tires!
Author Profile

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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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