Thread: 18 Inch LT's vs Load Rated

As a general rule a light truck-rated tyre has a stronger carcase than a passenger-rated tyre, particularly useful anywhere sharp rocks are encountered. They often are rated for a higher load so have more safety margin in harsh conditions even though the p-rated tyre may carry your load on good surfaces.

Thanks Graeme. So taking a real example for265/60/18's, Bridgestone D697's LT's are rated 114, which is the same as the Hankook ATM's (non LT). There is a massive price diff (~$400 vs $250 per tyre). So in this case the LT's will be a better performer in harsher conditions. Alternative is to go to 17's (although I have to buy the wheels) giving much more choice, lower prices and much higher ratings. My mental debate continues. I haven't done the big lap before, and am worried of overkill. Eg I could get 6 of the non LT tyres (having 2 spares), and just take it easier on the harsher conditions vs having only 4 of the LT's for a similar price.

Or you could wait for the BFG KO2 in 265/60/18.
These will be 119 load rated, LT.

That is if you can wait until the end of the year for them,and i bet they won't be cheap.
But then again if you don't want issues…...

Originally Posted by Choppers

I am torn between the 17inch vs 18inch debate, but feel that 18's will be ok. Limited LT choice in 18's (BFG, B'Stone)

I think you've answered your own question. Your options in 18" tyres is limited. 19" even worse.

If you plan on keeping the vehicle long term, go the 17" wheels now. 17" tyres are significantly cheaper and the cost of changing the rims will be recovered quickly.

Vastly better availability and choice in the 17" sizes. LT and mud tyres even more so, particularly in outback Australia if you are touring.

Thanks all for the feedback. If you are running 17's, what wheels have you found? The Performance BB06 (mentioned in other threads) aren't being produced any longer and only a limited supply left so they are not an option. Struggling to find a suitable set.

How long before you leave?

OEM 17's often appear on Ebay,even on here at times.

The 265/60/18 size is pretty common,many Jap vehicles run that size.
That is if you want to stay on 18's.

But as others have said,big range of types and sizes for 17's.
And they are cheaper than 18's,and may last longer.

If you have seen the photo here of the D697 carcass profile cut you would never consider anything else.

So much more rubber and strength in the design..

If Baz and I can't wreck them, no one should have a problem!!!!

Originally Posted by Drizzle

I think you've answered your own question. Your options in 18" tyres is limited. 19" even worse.

If you plan on keeping the vehicle long term, go the 17" wheels now. 17" tyres are significantly cheaper and the cost of changing the rims will be recovered quickly.

Vastly better availability and choice in the 17" sizes. LT and mud tyres even more so, particularly in outback Australia if you are touring.

Price difference to an 18" LT is all of about $25.00 a tyre now.

And I'd much rather see 265s than 245s under the rig..