As a representative of eskape, and, in particular, a fan of atvs and extreme mud, i’ve been able to test several tire brands over the years, because of my work and my passion, from trail tires to extreme mud tires. Each tire was tested in extreme conditions. Some tires that i had the opportunity to test personally at races and demos during the year were not included in trials aimed at testing tire limits, durability and road handling on different types of surfaces such as mud, ice, snow, or sand. Eskape is, above all, a bunch of motorized-sport enthusiasts who practise their favourite sport and who love to provide their customers with accurate information.
Mud tires
The Terminator by Super ATV is my favourite tire of 2017. It’s a unique tire for extreme mud. This tire is ultra-flexible and, therefore, not as hard on the atv’s engine, as it has crampons that don’t put stress on it. This tire provides extreme traction in muddy conditions and on rugged trails thanks to its flexibility and the 2-inch vertical crampons. Available in different sizes (from 26.5 to 38 inches) and having won several races in quebec, this tire’s been dominating mud holes since it was introduced on the quebec market. You’ll find it at eskape or at your favourite dealer. I give the terminator a score of 9 out of 10.
My second choice is the Sedona Mudder Inlaw. It’s a high-performance, 8-ply radial tire with a 2-inch tread to overcome the deepest holes. Its radial design gives it the rigidity to travel over other types of difficult terrain without leaving the driver overwhelmingly feeling that they’re riding on extreme mud tires. The inlaw is availale in a 28- to 32-inch diameter for mounting on 14-inch rims only. Also noteworthy is the fact that the le inlaw was tested on several types of terrain (race track, federated trail, and extreme mud). I give the inlaw a score of 8 out of 10.
My third choice is the STI Outback Max 8 ply. This is an excellent tire designed for side-by-sides that drive through extreme mud, but it’s also good on trails, with a 2-inch crampon capable of devouring the deepest mudholes, and a v-shaped centre tread surface to conquer the most difficult trails. I recommend this tire, which, in my opinion, is the best choice for someone who owns a side-by-side, wants to ride in extreme mud and take advantage of trails without feeling like they’re riding on a tractor. I give the outback a score of 7 out of 10.
Tires for light mud
My first choice is the ITP Mega Mayhem 6 ply. The mega mayhem is a tire for light to extreme mud conditions that can also be used on trails as well as in extreme conditions (mud, rocks, stumps). Its greatest quality is its legendary sturdiness and resistance to punctures. A 1 ½-inch crampon ensures excellent traction in mudholes, and its design gives it stability on trails despite the aggressiveness of the crampons. I recommend this tire for side-by-sides and atvs with varying engine sizes. Itp’s economical tire is a sure bet for mud and trail fans who want a solid and durable tire. I give it a score of 9 out of 10.
My second choice for light mud is the Interco Swamp Lite 6 ply. An ultra-flexible and versatile tire that responds well to all types of trails, whether they’re made of mud or rocks, snow or sand. Offered in several sizes (22 to 29 inches), this tire is not the most popular tire among quad riders, as it quickly wears out on hard surfaces such as asphalt, given that it’s very flexible. It tends to melt like snow in the sun. It even wears out considerably in mud and on trails. Given its low price, it’s a choice that should not be ignored. I give it a score of only 8 out of 10 because of the premature wear and tear.
My third choice is the Maxxis Zilla 6 ply. This tire is excellent for atvs with a small engine. Lightweight, it offers some teeth to the engine without compromising the vehicle’s performance. Its beautiful design makes it ideal for all types of trails, whether in mud or on long rides. It offers comfort and good handling. It is not recommended for side-by-side and quad riders who like to travel over rocky, rugged trails, as its sidewalls are very weak. Mud fans looking for comfort when trail riding should consider the zilla, which is available in 22- to 30-inch sizes. I give it a score of only 7 out of 10 because of the weak sidewalls.
