what is your choice for tires

DRSMPS wrote:
I'm in the same boat (maybe the same TT...)

I have Goodyear Marathons in a ST20575R14 load range C that I want to replace.

My decision lies between purchasing Kuhmo 857 in the LT20575R14 size and Maxxis M8008's in ST20575R14 size. I've heard good things about both.

Kuhmo's don't make what you are calling an LT20575R14. The 4 14" KUHMO 857s are the 185R14 load range "D"(1874lb max load at 65psi), the 195R14 load range "C"(1874lb max load at 65psi, the 195R14 load range "D"(2094lb max load at 65psi), and the 205R14 load range "D" (2271lb max load at 65psi)

I know the Kuhmo's have a load range D rating and will fit on my 14" X 5.5" rims. They have an 8-ply tread and 2-ply sidewall

75% correct they also have a 195R14 in a load range "C" so be careful

The Maxxis have a load range C rating, also fitting my rims. However they have a 6-ply tread rating. I can't find any information indicating what side wall ply rating is on them.

Be sure to check you rims since most that have load range "C" tires are only rated for 50psi and not the 65psi that the KUMHO 857s are spec'd at.

For those of you who have made this switch, what is your recommendation between these two?

I doubt you will find many that have actual experience with both. I looked at it this way ... if you don';t want or care for any increased load capacity or increase you speed limitations, just hopefully a better tire go with the Maxxis. If you want to increase your load capacity and or increase you max speed you can't get there in any 14" size w/o going to something like the KUMHO 857's. The 195R15 LR "D" I got have a speed spec of 106mph and I highly doubt I will ever get close to that speed, but have at times with my current GY Marathons been sort of hampered in paying attention to their 65mph rating. While there hasn't been a lot posted about the KUMHO 857's here since the Maxxis is the "TIRE DEJOUR" so to speak, a lot of boaters have gone with the KUMHOs and seem to be happy with them.

Would anyone know the side-wall ply rating for a Maxxis M8008 in the 205 75R14 load range C size?