Beach wagons with balloon tires are becoming more popular each year once people realized how easily they roll on soft sand. However, beach cart balloon tires are still relatively new to the market. Therefore, some may not understand how to properly take care of them.
As a result, people sometimes find their tires deforming or breaking way before their lifespans are up. That’s exactly why we put this short maintenance guide together. So, keep reading and find out how you can use your balloon tires for years of use.
Why We Love Beach Cart with Balloon Tires
First things first, what’s the big deal with balloon tires, right? Well, simply read the reviews of our Ultimate Beach Cart XL and you’ll be swooped off your feet with the amazing capacity.
You may wonder: how could a cart be so full but still roll on soft sand without sinking or getting stuck, even at the deep beaches along the coast? Well, the answer is balloon tires.
Balloon wheels have a much larger surface compared to any traditional wheels. In addition, the low PSI allows the wheels to roll on the surface effortlessly when they squat, or flatten out to keep from sinking in soft, sugar like, sand. The low air pressure also makes the tires durable over a variety of terrains. We get asked often if they are only good for sand... Nope, we use our carts with balloon wheels on grass, gravel, concrete, pavement - any type of surface as long as you don't roll over something that will puncture a tire (glass, nail, etc.).
Proper Inflation
However, for balloon tires to function and last, you must inflate them properly. And many often make small mistakes that wear down their tires more quickly than normal. Bigger is not always better. Balloon wheels made by any manufacturer, even Wheeleez, will stretch. Putting too much air in the tire will stretch this pliable material and not evenly, so you'll develop large lumps or make them look like a conehead.
For example, you’re not supposed to fill them all the way up to the max PSI indicated in most instruction manuals. That’s because air will expand under heat, meaning at the max air pressure, there’s a high chance your tire would stretch and deform.
Instead, we recommend you use a hand pump and keep the air pressure below 1 PSI. Your tires should feel mushy and you should see them squat when you add weight. If they squat to the point the rim is touching the ground, add a little air in them. You should put them in the sun or let them sit overnight when first airing them up. You may notice they look lumpy or dented when you first air them up, this is normal until they sit overnight or get out into the sun - if you have questions, contact us and we can help!
Balloon Tire Maintenance
What to do with your balloon tire beach cart during the down season? If you have any type of folding carts, fold them up and remove the balloon tires. They can be easily disassembled using the tools that originally came with the box.
Always deflate your tires when you’re not using them so no air pressure builds up during storage. Meanwhile, check the air pressure often when you’re using them to make sure you stay on the low PSI.
Finding Replacement Parts
Beach cart balloon tires do not come with warranties — because there isn’t anyone providing repairs for them. However, you can easily find replacement wheels on our website.
Our replacement tires come in sets of two. We have 12” and 16” tires, with different-sized bushings or stainless steel bearings. If you own a Rio Wonder Wheeler, you can also purchase our balloon tire conversion kit so you can enjoy the benefits of large balloon tires with your favorite Rio cart.