Super Single Tires: Is One Tire Better Than Two?

Today’s post is all about super single tires — one large tire that does the job of two — and the pros and cons of opting for this setup.

We’re all familiar with dual tires on the rear axle of trucks, buses, and larger motorhomes. You’ve probably heard of a “dually” pickup truck, which gets that nickname from the double set of tires on each side of the drive axle.

But what kind of tires are super singles and how do they compare to a dual-tire setup?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of super single tires, and their best uses for RVers.

What Is a Super Single Tire?

A super single is one large, heavy-duty tire with a wide base that’s able to take the place of typical dual tires. It’s built to carry the same weight as two normal duals, replacing two tires with one. “One Big Tire” = “Super Single Tire.”

Super singles have been around for over 20 years and are most commonly associated with farming equipment, construction equipment, long-haul trucks, and serious off-roaders.

Let’s look at what might make super singles a desirable alternative to dualies, as well as potential drawbacks.

What Are the Advantages of Super Single Tires?

Let’s take a look at the benefits they have over duallies.

Less Weight

The single tire + one rim weighs less than dual tires + two rims. So a big benefit is that they lower a vehicle’s weight.

Replacing duals on steel wheels with super singles on aluminum wheels can save a substantial amount of weight.

Lower Maintenance Cost

Even though larger, replacement involves one tire instead of two. While each tire is more expensive, there are fewer of them. That also means there’s less labor involved in breaking down and remounting them.

Higher Weight Ratings/Load Capacity

Super singles tend to have a higher weight rating so they can support heavier loads. 

They also require lower pressure to support the same amount of weight which can make the ride smoother.

Better for Off-Roading

If your interest is off-roading, a single tire equals no worry about rocks getting jammed between dual tires which can cause a flat.

Fewer Issues with Tire Pressure Monitoring

Using singles instead of dualies eliminates two tires from TPMS systems (fewer sensors needed). 

It also eliminates the need to access valve stems on inner duals, which can sometimes be tricky.

Potential for Better Fuel Economy

The reduced overall weight mentioned above means better fuel economy.

And with two singles vs four duals, there’s often less rolling resistance, potentially creating an additional fuel economy benefit.

What Are the Disadvantages of Super Single Tires?

There are pros and cons to every choice, and “singling out” your rig is no exception.

No Built-In Backup

With duals, in the event of a flat or a blow-out the second tire can support the vehicle’s weight while you pull over in a safe spot to deal with the issue.

With a single tire, there’s no such backup… and maybe no spare tire of that size on board.

Replacements May Not Be Readily Available

If you do need a replacement tire, it could be difficult to obtain one immediately.

Since they’re less common, it may even be more challenging to obtain them when replacement time comes.

Necessary Modifications

Modifications are required to make the switch from duals to super singles. Making this mod is commonly known as “singling out” a vehicle.

At a minimum, you’d need to switch to new wheels/rims.

Additionally, on smaller vehicles, wheel well modifications may be required, and/or the suspension may need to be lifted to make room for the larger tires.

Difficult to Lift and Maneuver

A super single tire typically weighs about 70% of what two duals weigh. But that’s considerably more than either one of the duals.

So, a super single is more difficult to lift and handle than a dual tire.

Cost

Super singles are generally a lot more expensive than regular dual tires.

This might not be a big negative if they outlast regular tires. Unfortunately, they tend to wear out faster.

All large RV tires can be expensive, but this can make it worse. Our video about RV tire replacement might help save you some $!

Why Would You Want to Switch to Super Single Tires?

The main reason someone might want to single out their RV is for better off-roading.

RVers who boondock in remote areas probably value the benefits of super singles most. The ability to travel off-road to remote locations for Overlanding experiences is likely the greatest allure of super singles

Otherwise, traditional duals offer better highway performance. The cost of singling out would likely be far less worthwhile for RVers who remain ON the beaten path.

Want to help extend the life of any tire on your RV? Check out our post on tire age, care, and replacement.

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