Mickey Thompson
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By, TXJEEPER


We Put Mickey Thompson's Baja Claws to the Test

Baja ClawWhat's the first thing you tend to look at when you check out someone's rig? The model, right? What's usually the second thing? Tires.

Not only are they one of the most expensive add-ons to a 4x4, but they are also one of the most essential modifications we can do.

Generally, there are several things that help determine the tires that you'll buy, including size and fitment, budget, past experiences, and advice from those you trust.

Obviously, size plays a very big part in the selection process. Ultimately, everyone pretty much wants the biggest tire they can squeeze under the fenders, and that their driveline will put up with. On our Project TJ, we had been running 33x12.50 BFG Mud Terrains. They had served us well, but we ached for something taller and much more aggessive. We already had 6" of suspension lift and figured that with a 1" Daystar body lift, we could clear a 35" tire.

BFG doesn't make anything more aggressive than their Mud Terrains, so we began searching around for alternatives. Mickey Thompson was just releasing the Baja Claw and after a lot of consideration, we decided to take a chance on them.

Sidebiter
The Sidebiters are somewhat flexible. You can pinch them with your fingers and understand how they work.

The Baja Claw has a six-ply sidewall, with a polyester/fiberglass bias belted construction. The tires feature an extremely aggessive tread. Gigantic angled lugs and big, fat, Sidebiters contribute to a 20" surface patch on the 35x13.50 tire. (our set actually measured closer to 33x12.50, unmounted).

The Sidebiters are are nothing short of amazing. They stick way out and are somewhat flexible. They truly help grab the rocks when you roll by. It's been a lot of fun wedging the tires against rocks and watching them mold themselves around rock edges and pull you up. The combination of the sidebiters and the tread earn the name Claw.

We've run the Claws now for a half a year on two different sets of rims and over all sorts of terrain, ranging from mud bogs to both edgy and smooth rocks. Because of their stiff sidewalls, the Baja Claws retain most of their height until you get them under 10 pounds. At this point, they finally start to shrink a little bit.

 

On the trails --->>>

 

 

SOURCE  
Mickey Thompson Tires
www.mickeythompsontires.com
4670 Allen Road
Stow, OH 44224
Phone: 330.928.9092

 

 

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