Why not 255/85/16?

[Dous]

So I am still waiting on getting tires, finally getting settled in college...but I am pretty sure I have made my choice

255/85/16 BFG KM2's

The Toyo M/T is also on my mind

My question though, is why don't more people run this size?

Pro's
-Less rolling resistance (narrower)
-Less weight
-Lower cost (BFG is 35 cheaper per tire, equates to 140 cheaper)
-Better on rocks and other rugged terrain off road
-Better MPG
-IMO the 285 looks too wide on these narrow SUV's
-Taller, a TRUE 33. The Toyo MT run 33.5, BFG 33.3.

Con's
-Cuts through deep mud/snow instead of floating
-Slightly less stable on off camber situations
-Usually less sidewall deflection
-Fewer manufacturers for the size

 

[IanB]

My question though, is why don't more people run this size?

Con's
-Fewer manufacturers for the size

I think you've answered your own question, it's just not a common size.

 

[PhdNPrerunners]

Good choice on a tire. I think more people should run 255's more especially with our 4runner since they are underpowered. I wish more manufactures made the size though especially in an all terrain.

 

[rebelbowtie]

I used to run those size KM2's and they were amazing in everything I put them in. Loved them and would purchase again. They are a very popular size for DRW trucks.

 

[Dous]

I think you've answered your own question, it's just not a common size.

Yea but look at how many people are running KM2's and Toyos in the 285/75 series

Sure someone who wants a highway tire might not find anything, but the KM2 is a very popular tire

Below are a few lists of tires

The 255/85R16 Tire Official List - Expedition Portal

list of tires for 255/85/16 - Tacoma World Forums

 

[KidVermicious]

I think the 33x12.5 and 285/75s are more common because most tire buyers like the look of their tires sticking out.

I agree with you, I'd like to see more tires in the 10.5 range. My 255/85 KM2s are in the mail.

 

[PhdNPrerunners]

Here's a 3rd gen with 255 Maxxis Bighorns. I think they look really good

 

[rebelbowtie]

That looks great

 

[KidVermicious]

I have the same problem with those as I do with the Duratracs, though - I wish the tread didn't tail off halfway down the sidewall. It's a shallow thing, I know, Bighorns are awesome tires. I just don't like the look.

 

[Gerdo]

They should have less rubbing issues too. They should clear the UCAs without any problems. Being narrower, they should rub less on the pinchweld too.

 

[rebelbowtie]

I have the same problem with those as I do with the Duratracs, though - I wish the tread didn't tail off halfway down the sidewall. It's a shallow thing, I know, Bighorns are awesome tires. I just don't like the look.

More aggressive sidewall is better off road though...

 

[KidVermicious]

More aggressive sidewall is better off road though...

Depends on how far down the sidewall you go, though. I get rolling the lugs off the edge and staggering them, that's good function. But extending a shallow replication of the the pattern halfway towards the rim doesn't buy you anything - that's fashion, and I'm not a fan.

 

[jrm]

Same lift- trim requirments as 285/75/16s?

Or does the increased height and narrower profile require less or more lift and trimming then a 285/75/16? :fro:

 

[PhdNPrerunners]

lift-trim wise to run 255/85/16s?

I'd say 2-2.5" I ran a 255/75/17 on my old 4runner stock

 

[Dous]

I have the same problem with those as I do with the Duratracs, though - I wish the tread didn't tail off halfway down the sidewall. It's a shallow thing, I know, Bighorns are awesome tires. I just don't like the look.

Thats why I love the km2, looks super clean, no dumb sidewall crap

 

[KHoffRunner]

I personally love the tall skinny look.

 

[MDST]

I love that tire size!!

I have 255/85 Cooper Discoverer ST and very happy!!

With 255/85 the drivetrain suffer much less ( cvs, steering wheel, etc ), the rig feels lighter, lighter drivetrain, etc.

Dous, you'll never regret having them!!

Note: I think 255/85 Toyo is the tallest tires of all brands ( in 255/85 of course ) and I also think they wear faster than km2.

Cheers

 

[Gerdo]

I personally love the tall skinny look.

Remember that the stock tires were 265mm wide. These are just 10mm narrower. Or 0.393701" (~3/8").

 

[fish0281]

I'll probably consider them next time I need new tires. I think the extra diameter looks nice, and like you mentioned, I like the idea of it fitting more naturally (and cheaper to boot!).

 

[KAILUAZ]

I'm in the market for tires and like the pizza cutter look as well. What kind of lift is needed to get these to fit?