I need some new tires (front and back) for my rubicon. What sizes would be the best? Should i get some new wheels? I do mostly hardpack trail riding but i occassionally run into some heavy mud. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thx!

 

Riding mainly hardpack, I wouldn't recommend a real aggressive tread tire. The three tires that I like for "all around" use are the Titan 589s, Goodyear Mudrunners, or the Blackwaters. I put 26" Mudrunners on my Rubicon, and haven't regretted it one bit. They have excellent trail manners, give a smooth ride on hardpack, and have plenty of bite for those occasional mudholes. I'd definitely buy them again, and would recommend them to anyone.

 

Thanks for the tip. I was thinking about getting a lift kit and a fender kit and getting some 27s. Or should i just stick with 26s and a lift kit(would i need the fender kit) and have less power loss? Sould I even get a lift kit at all? Any other suggestions would help. Thx!

 

The only reason you would need a lift kit or 27" tires would be if you did a lot of mud riding and needed the extra ground clearance. A lift kit puts added strain on your drivetrain, and also raises the center of gravity. Raising the CG makes the machine less stable on hillsides and off camber situations. Some folks just like the feel and look of a lifted machine. If you still decide to go that route, you may be able to get by without a lift. It depends on the tire size and combination you use. You shouldn't have any problems at all unless you go with a 27" or taller tire. Any 26" should fit just fine with no modifications.

 

I dont see how a lift kit could put added strain on your drivetrain.

 

Well the lift kit makes the angle of the cv joints increase therfore adding strain.