2004 SP 500. Rear tires are 25-11 and front 25-8. As I look for new tires I am finding that if I stay with a 25" tire, many manufacturers offer a 10" max width. Is it best to stay with the 25" diameter and drop down to the 10" width or do I move up to a 26" but there, my option is 12" width. I am not interested in modifications (jet kit, muffler, clutch) so I don't want to end up with a set up that is going to impair performance because the machine can't turn the tires. Most of my use is utility (hunting, hauling firewood) but that also involves a good deal of hilly terrain over soft, moist dirt where there are no defined trails. I have no interesting in muddding but do plan on riding some of the trails in WV and KY once or twice a year. The Outlander MST's do come in a 25-11-12 and seem to be a suitable tire for my use. Not sure that the Bighorn will provide the traction I need in the loose dirt forest floor. Also, are my factory wheel widths 7" front and 8" rear. It seems like all aftermarkets are 7 and 7. I have not removed the tire to measure but the rears appear to be wider than the fronts based upon visual inspection. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. I have researched until my eyes cross and have been unable to find answers to my specific concerns.

 

there should be a number on your sidewall of the tires ie 25x11-10 that would indicate a 25" height 11" wide and it fits on a 10" rim....and according to my book factory wheels should be 25x8-12 on the front and 25x11-12 on the back...

 

that is correct on the wheel size. you could go up to 26" if you want to w/out loosing anything and you should be able to find the same size stock tires you have on there w/out any problems.