Trail riding demands tires that can grip loose terrain, absorb bumps, resist punctures, and stay stable at speed. The best ATV tires strike a balance between durability, comfort, and all-terrain performance.
Below are five top trail-focused ATV tires commonly available on the market.
Best ATV Tires for Trail Riding
1. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0
A long-time favorite for all-around trail riding, the Bighorn 2.0 provides a smooth, controlled ride while delivering dependable traction on mixed terrain.
Features:
- Radial construction for improved ride comfort and stability
- Aggressive tread that grips hardpack, rocks, and light mud
- Strong sidewalls designed to resist cuts and punctures
- Versatile performance across varied trail conditions
- Durable compound for long tread life
2. ITP Mud Lite II
The Mud Lite II offers a strong balance between mud performance and trail comfort, making it ideal for riders who face mixed terrain with occasional soft ground.
Features:
- Redesigned lug geometry that sheds mud efficiently
- 6-ply rating for increased puncture resistance
- Reduced stone retention for better durability
- Comfortable ride for long trail sessions
- Available in popular ATV and UTV sizes
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3. Carlisle All Trail A/T
A reliable, budget-friendly trail tire designed for predictable handling and solid traction on a variety of surfaces.
Features:
- Non-directional tread for balanced all-terrain performance
- Good tread depth for long-lasting wear
- Stable handling on gravel, dirt, and hardpack
- Light to moderate sidewall protection
- Economical option for casual and recreational riders
4. Kenda Bear Claw HTR
Known for its toughness, the Bear Claw HTR combines aggressive traction with a durable radial design ideal for rugged trails.
Features:
- Deep, widely spaced lugs for excellent trail grip
- 8-ply radial construction for superior puncture resistance
- Reinforced shoulder and bead area for added durability
- Balanced rubber compound for consistent performance
- Suitable for riders who tackle rocky or rough terrain
5. Duro Power Grip (Series)
The Duro Power Grip provides a smooth ride with solid traction, making it a great value pick for general trail use.
Features:
- Radial construction for a smoother and more stable ride
- Reinforced sidewalls to resist cuts and trail damage
- Versatile tread pattern suited for hardpack and intermediate terrain
- Long-lasting rubber compound
- Available in many common ATV sizes
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How to Choose the Right ATV Tires for Trail Riding
Consider your terrain
Hardpack and rocky trails benefit from radial tires with reinforced sidewalls, while soft or muddy terrain calls for more open lug patterns.
Check ply rating
Higher ply ratings (6–8 ply) provide more puncture resistance for rugged trails, while lower ply tires offer more flexibility and comfort on easier routes.
Match tire size to your ATV
Stick with manufacturer-recommended sizes to maintain proper handling, clearance, and gearing unless you intentionally want a different ride feel.
Think about riding style.
Aggressive riders may prefer a deeper tread and tougher sidewalls, while casual riders can opt for a more versatile all-terrain pattern.
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FAQs
What ATV tire is best for trails?
The best ATV tire for trails is typically an all-terrain radial tire. These provide a smooth ride, stable handling, and dependable traction on dirt, rocks, gravel, and light mud. For riders on rocky or rugged trails, choosing a tire with a 6- or 8-ply rating adds extra puncture protection and durability.
What brand of tires are good for ATVs?
Some of the most trusted ATV tire brands include Maxxis, ITP, Carlisle, Kenda, and Duro. These brands are known for strong construction, reliable traction, and designs that hold up well to off-road conditions.
What size tires are good for trail riding?
For general trail riding, most ATVs perform well with tire sizes in the 24–28 inch range for height and 7–10 inches for width. Sport ATVs may use smaller tires, while riders in softer or more challenging terrain may prefer slightly larger sizes for more ground clearance and grip. Always match the tire size to your ATV’s recommended specifications.
What ply tire is best for ATV?
A 6-ply or 8-ply tire is generally best for trail riding. These tires offer a solid balance of durability, puncture resistance, and ride comfort. Lower-ply options provide a softer ride but are more prone to punctures, while higher-ply models are tougher but stiffer.
What size ATV for trail riding?
A mid-size ATV in the 450–700cc range is ideal for most trail riders. These machines provide a good mix of power, maneuverability, and comfort. Smaller sport quads are agile for tight trails, while larger utility ATVs offer more stability and load capacity but can feel bulkier in narrow sections.
What brand of ATV is the most reliable?
Honda is widely regarded as the most reliable ATV brand due to its long-term durability and low maintenance needs. Yamaha also ranks highly for dependable engines and strong build quality. Other brands like Kawasaki, Suzuki, and certain Can-Am models are also known for reliability when properly maintained.
Final Thoughts
The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 and Kenda Bear Claw HTR stand out for durability and all-around trail traction. The ITP Mud Lite II is excellent for mixed-terrain riders who want mud-clearing capability without losing trail comfort. The Carlisle All Trail A/T remains a dependable budget option, while the Duro Power Grip provides a smooth-riding radial at an affordable price.
