bloc
SILVER Star
The concept of "number of plies" doesn't really apply (see what I did there?) to radial tires. That was in the old bias-ply days.What about number of plies?
Yes an e-load tire will have more structure to allow the greater inflation pressures, but it is an incremental difference and the jury is out on whether this will help avoid tire failure on trail, which seems to be the primary reason people that don't need the load rating run an e-load tire.
Also, it is possible they change other aspects of the tire construction to bring the friction down, and thereby increase the load rating.
For instance.. Per the spec sheet (if we can believe it) in the 285/70R17 that I run the E-load AT3 is actually lighter than the C-load, despite being slightly taller. They surely didn't take material out of the cords, otherwise it couldn't handle 80psi vs 50.. so where did it come from? Rubber? Maybe on the sidewall? Would you rather have slightly stronger cords or more rubber to avoid flats? Or could it be more advanced/lighter materials internally?
They may be tougher, but may not. Either way the idea that an E-load gives you four more plies of cotton than a C-load is no longer accurate.
You are better off just choosing a tire that isn't notorious for sidewall problems.. then choose the load range that is appropriate, vs spend extra on a harder to find tire that is more expensive and offers no clear benefit.
Now if the size you want is only available in e-load, then go for it..