I did it. I'm buying a used Explorer 500 (same as the Sportsman w/out the pod) It's in good shape, and I'm getting a pretty good deal. It needs new tires. So what are the benefits and draw backs to going with either the 26" blackwaters, or the 27" blackwaters. Opinions Please.

Bruce L. Hall
97 Explorer 500

 

Bigger tires take away a lot in the areas of performance and handling. I had 26" tires on my Xplorer and I noticed about a 15% drop in performance and handling was dropped by half. Some people notice less of a difference than I by the way.

Bigger tires are amazing in mud and rocks though! It makes one feel tons more confident in a huge mud pit or climbing rutted hills. There is definately a difference.

It all depends on how you ride. For normal rides bigger is better in my humble opinion. For agressive trail riding at higher speeds I went for stock size tires with more agressive tread.

Let us know what you decide!