When it comes to upgrading the tires on your ATV, it’s important to choose the right size to ensure optimal performance and safety.
If your ATV wheels currently take a 25x8x12 tire, you may be wondering how big of a tire you can put on them.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider when selecting a larger tire size and provide some guidelines to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Tire Size Measurements
Before we dive into the specifics of tire sizes, let’s take a moment to understand how they are measured.
The numbers in a tire size, such as 25x8x12, represent the dimensions of the tire in inches.
- The first number, 25, indicates the overall height of the tire from the ground to the top of the tread.
- The second number, 8, refers to the width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall.
- The third number, 12, represents the diameter of the wheel that the tire is designed to fit.
Now that we have a basic understanding of tire size measurements, let’s explore how big of a tire you can put on your ATV wheels.
Factors to Consider
When determining the maximum tire size for your ATV wheels, there are a few factors to consider:
- Clearance: One of the most important factors is the amount of clearance you have between the existing tire and other components of your ATV, such as the fenders, suspension, and frame. It’s crucial to ensure that the larger tire will not rub or interfere with any of these parts.
- Gearing and Power: Increasing the tire size can affect the gearing and power of your ATV. Larger tires can put additional strain on the engine and transmission, potentially causing a loss of power and acceleration. It’s important to choose a tire size that is suitable for your ATV’s capabilities.
- Handling and Stability: Changing the tire size can also impact the handling and stability of your ATV. Larger tires may affect the ATV’s center of gravity and can lead to changes in how it handles on different terrain. It’s important to choose a tire size that maintains the desired level of stability and control.
Guidelines for Choosing a Larger Tire Size
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are some guidelines to help you choose a larger tire size for your ATV wheels:
- Consult the Manufacturer: Start by consulting the ATV manufacturer’s guidelines or owner’s manual. They may provide recommendations or limitations on tire sizes for your specific ATV model.
- Consider Going Up One Size: If you’re looking for a slight increase in tire size, you can consider going up one size from the original 25x8x12. For example, you could try a 26x9x12 tire. This slight increase should generally be within the acceptable range for most ATVs.
- Check for Clearance: Before installing the larger tires, carefully inspect your ATV for any potential clearance issues. Ensure that there is enough space between the tires and other components, especially when the suspension is fully compressed or when turning the wheels to their maximum angle.
- Monitor Performance: After installing the larger tires, closely monitor the performance of your ATV. Pay attention to any changes in power, acceleration, handling, and stability. If you notice any significant issues or concerns, it may be necessary to reconsider the tire size or seek professional advice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size for your ATV wheels is crucial for both performance and safety.
While your ATV wheels currently take a 25x8x12 tire, you can consider going up one size to a 26x9x12 tire.
keeping in mind the factors of clearance, gearing and power, as well as handling and stability.
Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and carefully inspect your ATV for any potential issues before making any changes.
By following these guidelines and monitoring the performance, you can find the perfect tire size to enhance your ATV riding experience.
