Finding the right tires for your side-by-side (SxS) can feel overwhelming. I’ve spent countless hours researching and, let’s be honest, getting muddy testing different tires to find the best options for various needs and budgets. This guide will help you navigate the choices, comparing seven top picks to help you find the perfect fit for your riding style and terrain. We’ll cover everything from all-terrain options to more specialized choices, so whether you’re hitting the trails or sticking to paved roads, you’ll find something here.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT NAME | AMAZON LINK |
|---|---|---|
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Set of 4 (FOUR) Forceum Octa All-Season Passenger Car… |
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Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST205/75R15… |
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BILT HARD 10″ Flat Free Tires Heavy Duty Garden Cart… |
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Set of 2 (TWO) Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car… |
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Set of 4 (FOUR) Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car… |
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Kenda Bearclaw EX K573-24×11-10 Rear Tires for All Terrain… |
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|
Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer… |
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1. Set of 4 (FOUR) Forceum Octa All-Season Passenger Car Tires
These Forceum Octa tires are advertised as high-performance all-season passenger car tires. While not specifically designed for SxS vehicles, their XL load range might make them suitable for lighter models used primarily on roads or hard-packed trails. They’re a budget-friendly option if you need a replacement set quickly.
- Treadlife: N/A
- Tires Only
- Season: All Season
- Performance: High Performance
- Car Type: Passenger
- Load Range XL
- 4-Ply Rated
- 4-PR
Pros:
– Affordable
– All-season capability
Cons:
– Not specifically designed for SxS
– Durability on rough terrain may be limited
– Load capacity may be insufficient for heavier SxS models
User Feedback Summary: Mixed reviews. Some users report decent performance on paved roads, while others found them lacking for off-road use.
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2. Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST205/75R15
Designed for trailers, these Free Country Grand Ride tires offer a surprising amount of durability. Their higher ply rating and reinforced construction make them a potential option for SxS vehicles that primarily see light off-road use. The “Scuff Guard” is a nice added touch for protection.
- Set of 4 New FREE COUNTRY Premium Quality ST205/75R15 Radial Tires
- Nylon cap ply (nylon overlay cross entire tread area)
- Featured “Scuff Guard” ring on tire wall
- 7 mm deep tread depth
- 8 ply rated, load range D
- Speed rating N— up to 88mph
- Designed for trailer use only
Pros:
– Durable construction
– Relatively deep tread
– Scuff guard protection
Cons:
– Designed for trailers, not specifically SxS
– May be overkill for lighter SxS models
– Might not offer optimal off-road traction
User Feedback Summary: Generally positive feedback for trailer use, with users highlighting their durability. Limited feedback specifically for SxS applications.
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3. BILT HARD 10″ Flat Free Tires Heavy Duty Garden Cart
These flat-free tires are designed for garden carts, not SxS vehicles. Their small size and construction make them unsuitable for anything beyond very light-duty use.
- NO-FLAT TIRES FOR HASSLE-FREE OPERATION
- DURABLE & LONG-LASTING
- EASY ASSEMBLY
- VERSATILE & CONVENIENT
- WARRANTY
Pros:
– Flat-proof
– Easy to install
Cons:
– Too small for most SxS
– Limited traction and durability
– Not suitable for off-road use
User Feedback Summary: Positive feedback for garden cart use, but completely inappropriate for SxS.
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4. Set of 2 (TWO) Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car Tires
Similar to the Forceum Octa tires, these Fullway HP108 tires are passenger car tires and may be suitable for lighter SxS vehicles used mostly on pavement. The XL load range is a plus, but always check your SxS’s specifications.
- Treadlife: N/A
- Tires Only
- Season: All Season
- Performance: High Performance
- Car Type: Passenger
- Load Range XL
- 4-Ply Rated
- 4-PR
Pros:
– Affordable
– All-season capability (for pavement)
Cons:
– Not designed for SxS
– Limited off-road capability
– May not handle heavier SxS
User Feedback Summary: Similar to the Forceum Octa; decent for pavement, but not ideal for SxS.
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5. Set of 4 (FOUR) Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car Tires
This is the same tire as #4, but a set of four and a lower load range (SL). Again, only suitable for very light-duty SxS use, mainly on paved surfaces.
- Treadlife: N/A
- Tires Only
- Season: All Season
- Performance: Performance
- Car Type: Passenger
- Load Range SL
- 4-Ply Rated
- 4-PR
Pros:
– Affordable (for a set of four)
– All-season capability (for pavement)
Cons:
– Not designed for SxS
– Very limited off-road capability
– Insufficient load capacity for many SxS
User Feedback Summary: Similar limitations as the previous Fullway listing.
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6. Kenda Bearclaw EX K573-24×11-10 Rear Tires for All Terrain
The Kenda Bearclaw EX is a serious contender for all-terrain use. The aggressive tread pattern and 6-ply construction provide excellent grip and durability. The low PSI rating enhances traction on challenging terrains.
- Aggressive Tread Design
- Rim Saver Technology
- 6-Ply Rated Construction
- Optimized Dimensions: 24×11-10
- Low PSI Rating (7 PSI)
Pros:
– Excellent all-terrain traction
– Durable construction
– Rim protection
Cons:
– Can be noisy on paved surfaces
– May wear faster on hard surfaces
– Higher price point
User Feedback Summary: Highly rated for off-road performance, with users praising their grip and durability.
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7. Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Tires
Similar to the Free Country tires, these Transeagle tires are designed for trailers but might be suitable for lighter SxS used on roads or hard-packed surfaces due to their high ply rating.
- Treadlife: N/A
- Tires Only
- Season: All Season
- Performance: Highway
- Car Type: Trailer
- Load Range E
- 10-Ply Rated
- 10-PR
Pros:
– High load capacity
– Durable construction
Cons:
– Not ideal for aggressive off-road use
– May be overkill for lighter SxS
User Feedback Summary: Good reviews for trailer use but limited feedback for SxS application.
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Practical Buying Advice:
Before buying, always check your SxS owner’s manual for recommended tire sizes and load ratings. Consider your primary riding terrain – paved roads, trails, mud, rocks – when selecting tires. Higher ply ratings generally mean greater durability, but can impact ride comfort. Don’t forget to factor in your budget – prices vary significantly.
Final Verdict:
For most side-by-side users, the Kenda Bearclaw EX stands out as the top choice for its excellent all-terrain performance and durable construction. However, if you primarily use your SxS on paved surfaces, a set of high-quality passenger car tires with an appropriate load rating may suffice, saving you money. Always prioritize safety and choose tires that meet the specifications of your vehicle.
FAQ:
Q: How often should I replace my SxS tires? A: This depends on usage, but generally, you should inspect your tires regularly for wear and tear. Replace them when the tread depth reaches the wear indicators or if you notice significant damage.
Q: Can I use different tire sizes on my SxS? A: No, using different tire sizes can damage your SxS’s drivetrain and affect handling. Always use the sizes specified in your owner’s manual.
Q: What is load range, and why is it important? A: Load range indicates the tire’s maximum load-carrying capacity. Choosing a tire with an insufficient load range can lead to premature failure and safety hazards.
Q: What does “ply rating” mean? A: Ply rating refers to the number of layers of fabric within the tire’s construction. A higher ply rating usually means a stronger and more durable tire.
Q: How do I know which tire size I need? A: Check the sidewall of your current tires or consult your SxS owner’s manual.
Q: What is the difference between all-terrain and mud tires? A: All-terrain tires offer a balance of on-road and off-road performance. Mud tires have a more aggressive tread designed for maximum traction in muddy conditions.
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