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Motorhome Tires and Performance... Is Michelin's X-ONE XRV A Step In The Right Direction?
The Michelin Tire Company has changed the rules on what we think of motorhome tires. They have introduced a new ultra-wide, low profile tire that can replace a set of dual tires on most of our motorhomes.
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The X-One XRV tire (445/50R22.5) is rated up to 120 psi, and each tire can support 10,200 pounds. This is a seriously strong tire designed to replace two rear dual tires and can support a rear axle weighing in at over 20,000 pounds. Is this a good idea?
Over The Rear Dual Tire Configuration
Michelin claims that their tire is a smoother riding tire in a variety of road conditions:
- Motorhome owners driving on the notoriously bumpy highways like Hwy 210 in the Pasadena/Azusa area of Los Angeles are pleasantly surprised at how well this new motorhome tire will smooth out the highway.
- For those who like to boondock, these tires seem to smooth out the ride when you are off the pavement while, at the same time, offer superior traction.
- There is an overall weight savings of around 200 pounds and a lower rolling resistance on this motorhome tire that allows for an approximate 2% gain in fuel mileage.
- This would, of course, translate into
better fuel economy
and a greater use of your
cargo carrying capacity (CCC).
- This would, of course, translate into
better fuel economy
and a greater use of your
cargo carrying capacity (CCC).
Of course, there is always a down side, or some type of negative impact to any idea. As an example:
- What if you were to get flat tire?
- Are most tow truck operators skilled in the mechanics of changing this puppy out?
- Can you find a replacement for this motorhome tire in the hinterlands of our North American Continent?
- Is it possible to carry a spare?
- Would you have to carry two spares because these tires do not go on the front axle?
- Would you have to carry two spares because these tires do not go on the front axle?
- Can you, or should you, rotate these puppies?
Having the proper spare is another issue entirely. Some people simply use the spare tire they already have and "limp" into town for a fix or replacement. This would be a personal choice depending on conditions.
These are some of the questions that should be addressed before spending the big bucks to replace your old tire and rim sets for these newer, more efficient motor home tires.
Michelin Tires Make Sense
Several large companies like Wal Mart and Flying J, along with a lot of off-road cement truck businesses, have changed over to these tires on their trucks and tankers.
If it makes sense for these heavy haulers to use these single wide tires, maybe the casual motor home owner may want to consider this option.
Although it is possible for RV'rs to install these truck tires on their rigs, I have a couple of thoughts on this matter. I would be careful to assume that "truck tires" are more robust than "RV tires". Simply put, trucks can run with a full load (heavy loads) and also run empty (light loads). This will overall put less strain on a set of tires.
Tires used on motorhomes generally run a consistent load. Usually pretty close to capacity. This would result in a more punitive environment for your tires. Therefore, truck tires may not hold up as well.
If this single tire concept makes sense to you, here is a forum page that discusses the pro and cons.
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