What'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.
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 --->>>
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