The best spare tire for T135/60R16 wheels balances reliability, load capacity, and all-season traction. This guide focuses on five well-matched options that suit drivers who want a ready-to-use, roadside-friendly spare or a temporary tire that maintains safety on typical daily commutes. Each pick serves a distinct need, from compact, budget-conscious spares to all-season performers designed for longer drives. The following summary highlights who each product is best for and why it stands out.
| Product | Best For | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| CONTINENTAL T135/70R16 100M sContact | Sporty SUVs and trucks needing robust all-season traction | All-season traction with radial construction |
| T135/70R18 103M CONTINENTAL CST SPARE BW | Spare for larger wheel setups or mixed terrain needs | Balanced performance for speed and reliability |
| KUMHO 121 T125/80D16 97M BSW | Budget-friendly, all-season spare for everyday use | Standard load, diagonal construction |
| Four TYK GR/KR16 Tubes | Inner tubes for specific treads and sizes | Versatile tube compatibility for multiple tire widths |
| Starfire Solarus AS 215/60R16 | Touring vehicles needing reliable all-season traction | All-season touring performance |
Continental T135/70R16 100M sContact
This Continental spare is designed for trucks and SUVs that need dependable all-season traction. The T135/70R16 size supports typical SUV applications, with solid radial construction that emphasizes stability on wet and dry surfaces. Best for drivers who want a spare ready for all-season road use without specialized performance requirements. A potential limitation is that this is a dedicated spare for a specific size, limiting cross-compatibility with non-matching wheels.
Continental CST Spare BW 135/70R18
This CST spare is aimed at larger wheel setups, offering a balance between load capacity and all-season utility. Its 18-inch footprint supports SUVs and crossovers seeking a more robust temporary tire. Best for drivers who expect to cover longer distances or highway travel with a spare, while avoiding overly aggressive or sport-oriented tires. A limitation is that it is sized for bigger wheels, which may not fit compact or mid-size vehicles without wheel matching.
KUMHO 121 T125/80D16 97M BSW
The Kumho spare offers a budget-conscious option with a standard load rating and all-season traction. It is best for everyday drivers who need a practical spare that can be used in a wide range of weather conditions. The warning here is that it’s a more economical tire, which may not deliver premium performance in extreme or high-speed scenarios; verify wheel compatibility and space if your vehicle uses a different wheel diameter.
Four TYK GR/KR16 Inner Tubes
These TYK inner tubes are designed for 16-inch tires, including models in the 205/60R16 to 235/60R16 range. Best for drivers needing a tube-based solution to prevent flats or improve puncture resistance in tubeless replacements. Choose this if your spare setup uses inner tubes or if your tire preference includes tube-type configurations. Limitation: inner tubes add weight and complexity and are not compatible with tubeless tire systems without proper installation.
Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 215/60R16
The Starfire Solarus AS is a touring-directed all-season tire suitable for a 16-inch wheel when mounted as a spare. It emphasizes reliable traction and comfort for daily driving. Best for drivers who want a spare that mirrors general touring performance. A potential limitation is that it is primarily designed for all-season touring rather than high-performance or rugged-terrain use, which may matter for some SUV or light-truck owners.
Buying Guide
What size and type should you choose? Start with the T135/60R16 sizing that matches your vehicle’s spare wheel. If you have larger wheels, a CST Spare BW with a 135/70R18 size can work, but ensure hub and load compatibility. For budget concerns, a standard load option like the Kumho T125/80D16 offers adequate traction for everyday driving, but may not perform as well under demanding highway conditions.
How does load rating affect safety? A higher load rating indicates better support for heavier vehicles. For light trucks and SUVs, aim for a spare with at least a standard load rating and appropriate speed rating to ensure safe highway travel in an emergency. Consider radial tires for consistent performance and handling in diverse weather.
Should you consider inner tubes? Inner tubes are useful when your spare is designed for tube-type tires or when you routinely replace tubeless tires with tube-compatible setups. They can improve puncture resilience in some configurations but require proper installation and maintenance knowledge.
What about all-season versus specialty tires? All-season tires provide broad traction across wet, dry, and light snow conditions, making them sensible for most spare uses. If your driving involves off-road or high-speed highway use, verify that the spare’s tread, construction, and rating meet those needs.
FAQ
- What does “T135/60R16” mean?
The designation indicates a temporary spare tire sized for 16-inch rims with a width of 135 mm and an aspect ratio of 60, suitable for compact to mid-size spares on many SUVs and light trucks.
- Is a spare tire rated for all-season use necessary?
All-season capability ensures reliable traction in most weather conditions, reducing the risk of loss of control during an emergency tire swap.
- Can I mix spare tires with worn primary tires?
Avoid mixing significantly different tread patterns or sizes; use a spare that matches or is close to your primary tire’s size and type to maintain handling balance.
- When should I replace a spare tire?
Replace a spare if the tread depth is low, the tire shows cracks, or if it has been damaged. Regular inspection is recommended for all spare tires.
- Do inner tubes affect vehicle warranties?
Inner tubes may affect installation requirements and vehicle compatibility. Check vehicle and tire manufacturer guidelines before use.
- How do I store a spare correctly?
Keep the spare in a cool, dry area with the valve protected, and ensure the lug wrench and jack are readily accessible for a quick tire change.