ATV Tech: Performance Gaining Tires

When it comes to increasing our ATV’s performance, we often overlook new tires in favor of more glamorous modifications such as a new pipe or a high-compression piston but believe it or not, there may be some massive performance gains to be found by simply putting on fresh sneakers. Wondering how? Read on.

Tread Factor:
Stock ATV tires are usually selected for their ability to tackle the widest variety of terrain possible since Suzuki, Honda and Yamaha’s engineers don’t know whether you are going to ride on hardpacked trails, desert sand, snow, mud and so on while building your ATV. Jacks of all trades, masters of none if you will. Hence simply selecting a tire package designed for the type of riding you enjoy is an immediate traction boost. With increased traction comes increased acceleration, stronger cornering, and decreased braking distance.

Weight:
We here at ATV Connection are astonished by how often we happen upon riders pushing heavy 6-ply tires to ride on perfectly groomed trails. When it comes to your rubber, sometimes less really is more. If you can decrease the weight here , in an unsprung region of your ATV, suspension action (and acceleration) will also increase because of a concept known as reduced reciprocating mass.

Low Profile:
Generally speaking, lowering your ATV’s ground clearance is a bad thing when it comes to straddling trail clutter and popping over obstructions but these are concerns your typical MX racer need not stress- hence going with a lower profile tire for this application actually makes for a lower center of gravity and better cornering/ sliding habits. Additionally less sidewall means a much stiffer platform (reduced flex).