05 Wolverine tire choice dilemma - ATVConnection.com ATV Enthusiast Community

suzukisusie · #1 (**permalink**) 08-04-2009, 12:09 AM

I have 3800 miles on my 05 Wolverine. Have had 489ATs for about 2800 of those miles. I am ready to replace. I want to keep a soft ride but thought I should consider the Swamp Fox or 489 XTs which are 6 ply. I definitely want to stay with 23" tires. Can anyone tell me whether there is a noticeable ride difference in the the 6 ply tires?? I have Elka shocks and am enjoying a pretty smooth ride. We ride dirt, rocks, trails and occasionally some mud. I just thought the 489s wore pretty fast. Maybe I am expecting too much.

BlueBlaster · #2 (**permalink**) 08-04-2009, 09:23 PM

I know that there are not many choices in the 23 inch size for the Wolverine. When I ripped open the sidewall on the OEM Dunlops, I considered the 489 XTs and the Swamp Fox tires. I ended up choosing the Swamp Fox due to being able to get them for a lower price. They don't ride as smooth as the Dunlops, but I did not expect them to due to the fact that they are 6 ply. My riding conditions are similar to yours mostly hard pack trails and rocks. The Swamp Fox tires work good in most conditions and improved handling over stock and they slide pretty well in 2 wheel drive. Overall they are a good tire for the price. Also another tire that you might want to consider is the Kenda Klaw XC, they are available in stock Wolverine size and they are radial which should improve the ride and handling. I am considering them to replace my Swamp Foxes because I would like a more sport type oriented tire.

h0p16 · #3 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 05:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by suzukisusie

... I have Elka shocks and am enjoying a pretty smooth ride. We ride dirt, rocks, trails and occasionally some mud...

Hi there ... I have an 07 Wolvy and would REALLY like to make it ride better (more comfortable)...did you notice a big difference going over the rocks and roots when you put the Elkas on?

TACNAV · #4 (**permalink**) 09-24-2009, 06:01 PM

I have an 02 Wolverine and replaced the rear tires with 489 XTs last year. It sounds like I ride on the same type of terrain as you - mostly dry but some mud. Mine seem to be wearing well, but you sound like you might be doing a little more riding than me. XTs were on it before, so I can't offer much in the way of ride comparison, but I'm happy with my new tires overall. They have a good all-round use tread and the ride seems good enough. When I replace the front tires, I'd buy XTs again. As mentioned earlier, there's not a huge selection for 23 inch tires. Good luck.