Just picked up an '02 DII with both 16" and 18" wheels. Comparing a set of 255/70-16's to a set of 265/60-18's, both of which will fit, I gather from the forums, am I running a significantly greater risk of sidewall damage with the 18's for just general backcountry travel with the occasional travel on bony ground? Was thinking of a set of Pirelli ATR's on the 18's and a set of MTR's on the 16's some time on down the road. Recommendations?

 

18"s tires generally do not have as strong of sidewalls as 16" tires. If you're going to be doing rougher driving often I recommend putting some quality a/t tires on the 16"s and leaving them on all the time. If you like both you can swap the 16"s on when you are going off road and leave the 18"s on for street driving.

 

If you are going to do mostly road work, the 18's will give you a more sporting feel. If your roads are filled with frost heaves you will probably want to stick with the 16's. I like the 16's with a stiffer side wall, like a load range D or E. The load rating isn't a must for these trucks, just my preference. The low profile of the 18" wheel and tires will give a firm ride and good cornering, but at the risk of sidewall damage if you hit something like a pothole.

 

18"s for back and forth to work and road trips, 16's for the weekend and snow.

 

Thanks for the responses...think I'll go with the 16's. I've got an S2000 for that "sporting feel"!