SAND tyres for 110 Defender tdi 300

[jys]

My Defender 110 TDI 300 needs tyres for desert travelling with strong sidewalls, probably size 235/85 R16.

I am considering the TOYO M55 all terrain tyre.
Are the M55 good for crossing dunes.
Has anybody used the Toyo M55?
Does anyone have alternative suggestions?

[steane]

M55s are good, my Father used them to cross the Simpson without any issues. I did the same trip on half worn MTZs without issue either.

MTZs have a strong sidewall. I ran 12psi across the Simpson, never got stuck, never had to charge anything in hi-range (which seems to be the MO for many people) and did it all easy with no tyre issues.

Pressures are more important than tread type in sand.

[Slunnie]

I find that a smooth pattern has less drive but less digging also and an open pattern has more drive but digs more if you let it spin. As said, pressure has the greatest effect.

[Landybitz]

Michelin XS is the benchmark sand tyre.

XS has subtle tread with shouldered blocks to compress sand in inverted cups.

Ie, enhancing flotation and traction rather than cutting through it.

Circumferentially grooved tyres may look good but ineffective in sand.

Pros, excels in all types of sand, Robust for all desert conditions

Cons, Poor grip on wet tarmac ( drive slower its a landy not a rocket ship )
Noisy on road, takes ultra low pressures but sidewall bulge, more
vulnerable to damage.

Superseded by the BFG AT.

[ozscott]

I have used many tyres on sand. The best I have found are the Maxxis Bravo 751 for all round sand work. General Grabbers At climb out of ruts better. Pirelli scorpions are very good also. Personally I like taller light truck tyres...have to air down more but ultra tough and can take more heat.

Cheers

[wayne]

The M55 are a brilliant tyre. you should get close to 100 000 km out of them.
I have done the Simpson and do lots of beach driving Fraser, Moreton Island and Straddies etc. This is one of the best all round tyres.
I am on my second set and will not use any other tyres.

[goingbush]

I concur with Wayne, Toyo M55 are the best touring tyre Ive used, and will be the only 235/85R16 I'd be buying again.

I just wish they came in 37x12.5R17

[jys]

Are the M55 2 or 3 ply in the sidewall?
Do they air down well for sand use?

[Bushie]

All my desert travelling in recent years has been on BFG MTs (235/85-16).
Don't recall being stuck anywhere (of any significance) pressures down to around 18psiand a slow and steady approach.
So far puncture free.


Martyn

[ozscott]

Are the M55 being discontinued?

Looks like there are plenty of tyre choices. I prefer LT in sand...heavier but much stronger. Especially towing campers and vans through deep sand. LT's require more air out but still deflate down well and longitudinal footprint is the go, so less sidewall bulge is better.

Cheers

Cheers