When it comes to upgrading your vehicle, one of the most impactful changes you could make is swapping out those factory-fitted Original Equipment (OE) tyres. But is it always necessary? And what are your options when you decide to make the switch? Let's dive into the world of tyres with insights from Dennis at Goodyear.
Understanding OE Tyres
OE tyres are fitted to your vehicle for a reason. They're specifically tuned to meet the manufacturer's requirements for your particular model. As Dennis explains, "The OE tyre is OE for a reason - it's tuned for this vehicle." Car manufacturers have specific performance parameters in mind, including safety margins and stopping distances, and the OE tyre is selected to help the vehicle perform to these standards.
But let's be honest - sometimes you want something different, whether it's a sportier feel, better off-road capability, or just a more aggressive look.
Getting up close to see the details on the new good year tyres
Upgrade Options
Looking specifically at the Goodyear range for 4x4 vehicles, we explored several options beyond the OE tyre:
1. Silent Track - The Subtle Upgrade
The Silent Track provides improved off-road reliability while maintaining on-road comfort and represents a modest step up from the OE tyre. Key features include:
● Consistent shoulders to maintain low noise levels
● More aggressive biting tread blocks
● Larger void spaces compared to OE tyres
The silent track tyre is the perfect reliable off road upgrade
2. AT Adventure - The 50/50 Split
The AT Adventure tyre is perfect for weekend warriors who split their time between highway driving and off-road adventures. It’s a popular direct upgrade from OE tyres, offering a balance between on-road and off-road performance:
● DuPont Kevlar reinforcement in the tread to enhance strength, durability, and overall performance.
● Weight comparable to OE tyres (an important consideration)
● S-shaped angle blades throughout the tread for enhanced traction
● Deeper tread depth than OE tyres
● Some sizes come with a mileage guarantee of up to 95,000km
The AT Adventure tyre is the tyre with the perfect balance
3. Duratrac RT - The Aggressive All-Terrain
The RT category perfectly caters to the growing trend of overland travel, where people, Dennis says, are "camping and travelling more". It also represents the current "sexy spot" in the market, with many manufacturers competing in this space. The Duratrac RT features:
● Three-ply sidewall construction for enhanced durability
● Light truck rating to handle additional weight from vehicle modifications
● Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for winter performance
● Suitable for those doing regular off-road trips who need more sidewall protection from possible punctures
The Duratrac Goodyear Tyre is the perfect traveller
4. Boulder MT - Serious Business
The Boulder MT is the most aggressive option in the Goodyear Wrangler family:
● Requires vehicle modifications before fitting (lift kit, suspension changes, etc.)
● Typically doesn't come in OE sizes
● Significantly heavier than OE tyres
● Effects driving dynamics (can feel "sluggish")
● May require wheel upgrades (often needs 9-9.5" wide rims)
The Boulder MT Tyre is the most agressive Goodyear Tyre
Things to Consider Before Upgrading from OE Tyres
Before you rush out to buy the most aggressive-looking tyre, consider:
1. Be Honest About Your Needs
As Dennis points out, "Sometimes the OE tyre will do its job" if your adventures are limited to the occasional beach trip. Surprisingly, the OE tyre might even perform better in sand than more aggressive options.
2. Weight Matters
Tyres represent "unsprung weight" - weight that isn't supported by your suspension. Adding heavier tyres means:
● More power is needed to accelerate
● More braking power is required to stop
● Potential impact on fuel economy
3. Legal and Insurance Implications
Remember to consider the following, and talk to a tyre professional if you are unsure or in need of advice:
● Legal parameters for tyre upgrades in your region
● Potential insurance implications
● Whether your vehicle's stock wheels can handle the upgrade
The Bottom Line
While upgrading from your OE tyres can enhance your vehicle's capability and appearance, it's important to make an informed choice based on your actual needs rather than purely on looks. Consider the trade-offs in terms of comfort, performance, fuel economy, and practicality before making the switch.
Whether you stick with your OE rubber or go for something more aggressive, proper maintenance is crucial. As Dennis reminds us, regular rotation and correct tyre pressure will help any tyre perform at its best and last longer.
So, is it time to ditch your OE tyres? Only you can decide - but now you know your options. To hear the full conversation, click on link below!
Click the link above to watch the whole Tyre Showdown video on Youtube
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