It's going to my 5th riding season with the OEM tires that came with my 2009 Rancher 420 Foot Shift. Time to figure out what tires to get. I am looking at either the Carlisle 489 (non radial) or the ITP TerraCross (radial). If I went with ITPs with their radial construction would that make the ride even more harsh (the Rancher solid axle is pretty stiff). Or should I go with the 489s? I am very interested in reading peoples' experiences and thoughts.

 

Have no experience what ever you chose go to atleast a 25" tire. Its the crazies thing Honda ever did putting small 24" tires on a 4x4 let alone a 420cc mid bore 4x4.

My friend has a 420 Rancher and but 26" Mudwitch tires on and it looks awsome and has it much more ground clearance now.
He said he lost some top end speed but he trail rides 99% of the time where you can't get over 30mph anyways.

 

I also hate how Honda uses a non standard rear rim size on the Rancher (11 inch rim diameter while the rest of the world uses 12 inches). I am definitely going with 25's and replace the wheels. Looking at the ITPs and 489s, the 489s are lighter so I may go with them. I agree about top end, I rarely go above 35mph and do mostly hard-packed riding in the northeast.

 

I have the same thing . My Polaris has odd ball 10" rims on the back which limites the selection.

Tires seem to cater to 12" rims for sure.

I think 25" on the 420 Rancher is a perfect match up.

Good luck with your pick.

I,m getting the ITP mudlites for my 350. The "XL" models witch have the taller 1-1/8" lugs.
I have them only on the front of my 500 and there great.