Date:         Thu, 18 Mar 2010 16:58:39 -0700
Reply-To:     James V <tornadored@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         James V <tornadored@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Syncro All-Terrain Tires: 14" vs 15" ?
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A slightly different tire question, I think:

I'm in the market for some all-terrain tires for my Syncro Westy with
stock 2.1L.  I have some off-road experience, but none in my new
Syncro.  I'm eager to explore back country and moderate 'wheeling
trails, but also know the majority of miles will be paved. I already
have both 14" and 15" wheel sets that I can use. I don't want to "plus
size," as I want to retain sidewall height for off-road.

Should I:

a) Go with 14" wheels and the newly available 195/75R14 BFG T/A KO
tires?  (I've found few if any other suitable 14" AT options)  The
primary benefit of this being the size is close to stock, so it would
have little effect on gearing.

or

b) Go with 15" wheels and 215/75 or 225/70 15" tires?  The increased
size has its benefits off-road, but it would increase the gearing
about 5-8%.  I'd have a few additional tire options in addition to the
BFGs (including some lighter, slightly less aggressive, yet very
capable treads).

All input welcome, but I'm specifically interested in
comments/experience from Syncro owners about the cost/benefit of
gearing vs tire size off road.

Thanks!

James V
86 Syncro Westy, etc