If you want excitement from your
ATV you’ll need to get a good set of tires
- OEM stock tires are less durable than replacement ATV tires. Because they are built to a price they are more prone to punctures and will wear out quicker.
- OEM stock tires can’t match the performance of replacement tires purpose-designed for specific conditions.
So you’ve decided it’s time to ditch the stock tires and get a decent set of boots. Do a bit of research before you buy and you’ll end up with tires you’ll be far happier with, which will give you thousands of miles of ATV excitement.
Terrain and Traction
The #1 consideration is traction. What will you be riding on; mud, rocks, sand, snow, flatland or hills, and will it be predominantly wet or dry? If you’ll be mainly riding on one specific type of surface, get a tire that’s purpose-designed for it. If you’ll be riding on multiple surfaces opt for a more all-round performance tire.
Tire Sizes & Aggressive Tread Patterns
The MotoMonster by EFX features some
of the most aggressive lugs available
Aggressive treads also increase the stresses on the drivetrain and it might be necessary to upgrade axels and gear ratios.
Tire Quality vs. Budget
The better quality the tire, the more durable it will be; able to withstand sharp rocks and unseen objects. Even if you’re on a budget spending slightly more may save money over time if you don’t have to constantly repair sidewall gashes and punctures. A tougher tire’s tread will also last longer and be more cost effective.
ATV Tire Manufacturers
For this much fun you’ll need a
set of paddle sand tires
ITP. Offers one of the largest selections of ATV/UTV tires. If you want different sets for different conditions but wish to remain brand-centric, ITP is highly recommended.
Interco Super Swampers and EFX. Both brands specialize in extreme mud tires. EFX’s MotoMonster boasts 2” lugs – among the largest on the market.
Cheng Shin. The Abalze sand tires are incredibly light and convex in profile to keep them skipping over dunes. Cheng Shin also offers a full range of mud, snow and dirt track tires.
You can browse the precise sizes, tread patterns and recommended uses of each tire from all these manufacturers and many others at 4WheelOnline.com.
By John Bone