Smaller rear tires....LT80 - ATVConnection.com ATV Enthusiast Community

rider326 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 03:19 PM

How much do smaller rear tires take away from the top end speed of an LT80?

I'm looking into buying a set of 16x6.5-8 or 18x6.5-8. I plan on staying with the stock size up front.

DSengineer · #2 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 04:42 PM

Its the same thing as making a gearing change. Your just doing it at the tires instead of the sprocket. No different...

rider326 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 06:01 PM

I understand going with a smaller tire will give me more low end. I just want to see how drastic the difference is from the 16" to the 18" tire from someone running these, but thanks for the reply.

dave 570 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-21-2009, 08:44 PM

don't know about on the lt80, but on my 250x 2 sizes smaller was quite noticable.

LT80 · #5 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 09:14 AM

There is a big difference IMO.
We ran the 16's for MX. Usually a tooth bigger on the front sprocket for the 16's.

rider326 · #6 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 09:58 AM

Jack, do you run a 13T or a 14T with the 16's.

LT80 · #7 (**permalink**) 10-22-2009, 03:37 PM

Yes....LOL

As you stated, the 16's are going to give more grunt and less speed.
Depending on your riding condidtions:: big hills and I'd have the stock 12 tooth (428) front. To bring the speed back, a 13 front. If your a flatlander, a 14 front but your not going to rocket out of the hole. Usually for a stock motor, gearing up is what most do. the 14 or even a 15 isn't out of the realm with some roller weight adjustment.
I run a 13/26 with 16's with my motor but the rpm's are increased thus the smaller sprocket is used.