Are Small Size Wheels Better Offroad?

January 18 2024 , 14 min reading time

If you are an offroad enthusiast, you might have wondered whether small size wheels are better for your adventures. Offroad driving is a challenging and exciting activity that requires the right equipment and skills. One of the most important factors that affect your offroad performance is the size of your wheels and tires.

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of small size wheels offroad, and how to choose the best size for your vehicle and terrain. We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about offroad driving and wheels.

What are the advantages of small size wheels offroad?

Small size wheels, also known as low-profile wheels, have a smaller diameter and a larger sidewall than standard or high-profile wheels. They are usually paired with larger tires that have more tread and grip. Some of the benefits of small size wheels offroad are:

Better ground clearance

Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of your vehicle and the ground. It is essential for offroad driving, as it allows you to overcome obstacles and avoid scraping or damaging your vehicle. Small size wheels can increase your ground clearance, as they allow you to fit larger tires that lift your vehicle higher. This can also improve your approach, departure, and breakover angles, which are the angles at which your vehicle can climb or descend slopes without hitting the ground.

Better traction and stability

Traction is the ability of your tires to grip the surface and transfer the power of your engine to the ground. Stability is the ability of your vehicle to maintain its balance and direction. Both are crucial for offroad driving, as they affect your control and maneuverability. Small size wheels can enhance your traction and stability, as they allow you to use larger tires that have more contact area and tread depth. This can help you adapt to different terrains and conditions, such as mud, sand, rocks, snow, or ice. Larger tires can also absorb more shocks and vibrations, which can reduce the risk of skidding or sliding.

Better fuel efficiency

Fuel efficiency is the measure of how much fuel your vehicle consumes per distance traveled. It is important for offroad driving, as it affects your range and cost. Small size wheels can improve your fuel efficiency, as they are lighter and have less rotational inertia than larger wheels. This means that they require less energy and force to accelerate or decelerate, which can save you fuel. Smaller wheels can also reduce the aerodynamic drag of your vehicle, which is the resistance of the air against your movement. This can also lower your fuel consumption and emissions.

What are the disadvantages of small size wheels offroad?

Small size wheels are not without drawbacks, however. Some of the disadvantages of small size wheels offroad are:

Reduced comfort and ride quality

Comfort and ride quality are the aspects of how smooth and pleasant your driving experience is. They are influenced by factors such as noise, vibration, harshness, and suspension. Small size wheels can compromise your comfort and ride quality, as they have less cushioning and flexibility than larger wheels. This means that they transmit more bumps and impacts to your vehicle and passengers, which can make your ride rough and noisy. Smaller wheels can also limit your suspension travel, which is the amount of movement your suspension can accommodate. This can make your ride stiff and rigid, especially on uneven or bumpy surfaces.

Increased risk of punctures and damage

Punctures and damage are the risks of your tires or wheels being deflated or broken by sharp objects or impacts. They are hazardous for offroad driving, as they can affect your safety and performance. Small size wheels can increase your risk of punctures and damage, as they have less protection and durability than larger wheels. This means that they are more vulnerable to cuts, tears, cracks, or bends, especially on rocky or rough terrains. Smaller wheels can also expose your tires to more sidewall flexing, which is the deformation of your tire's sidewall under load or pressure. This can weaken your tire's structure and integrity, and increase the chances of blowouts or failures.

Limited speed and performance

Speed and performance are the measures of how fast and powerful your vehicle is. They are determined by factors such as engine, transmission, gearing, and aerodynamics. Small size wheels can limit your speed and performance, as they have less diameter and circumference than larger wheels. This means that they cover less distance and generate less torque per revolution, which can reduce your acceleration and top speed. Smaller wheels can also affect your gearing ratio, which is the relationship between your engine speed and your wheel speed. This can alter your vehicle's responsiveness and efficiency, and require more frequent gear changes.

How to choose the right size wheels for offroad driving?

As you can see, small size wheels have their pros and cons for offroad driving. There is no definitive answer to whether they are better or worse than larger wheels, as it depends on various factors and preferences. To choose the right size wheels for offroad driving, you should consider the following aspects:

Consider the terrain and conditions

The terrain and conditions are the characteristics of the surface and environment you are driving on. They can vary from smooth and flat to rough and steep, and from dry and sunny to wet and snowy. Different terrains and conditions require different types of wheels and tires, as they affect your traction, stability, and comfort. For example, if you are driving on soft and loose terrains, such as mud, sand, or snow, you might want to use small size wheels with large and wide tires that can dig into the surface and provide more grip. On the other hand, if you are driving on hard and smooth terrains, such as asphalt, concrete, or gravel, you might want to use larger size wheels with smaller and narrower tires that can roll over the surface and provide more speed.

Consider the vehicle type and specifications

The vehicle type and specifications are the features and dimensions of your vehicle. They can include the make, model, year, weight, height, width, length, engine, transmission, suspension, and so on. Different vehicle types and specifications require different sizes of wheels and tires, as they affect your performance, efficiency, and clearance. For example, if you have a heavy and large vehicle, such as a truck, SUV, or van, you might want to use larger size wheels with smaller and stiffer tires that can support the load and reduce the rolling resistance. On the other hand, if you have a light and small vehicle, such as a car, hatchback, or crossover, you might want to use smaller size wheels with larger and softer tires that can improve the ride quality and reduce the weight.

Consider the personal preference and budget

The personal preference and budget are the subjective and financial factors that influence your decision. They can include your style, taste, purpose, goal, expectation, and affordability. Different personal preferences and budgets require different sizes of wheels and tires, as they affect your satisfaction and cost. For example, if you prefer a sporty and aggressive look, you might want to use larger size wheels with smaller and sleeker tires that can enhance the appearance and aerodynamics of your vehicle. On the other hand, if you prefer a simple and practical look, you might want to use smaller size wheels with larger and thicker tires that can provide more protection and durability for your vehicle. Similarly, if you have a high budget, you might want to use larger size wheels with premium and high-performance tires that can offer more features and benefits for your vehicle. On the other hand, if you have a low budget, you might want to use smaller size wheels with standard and economical tires that can save you more money and maintenance for your vehicle.

Conclusion

Offroad driving is a fun and adventurous activity that requires the right equipment and skills. One of the most important equipment is the size of your wheels and tires, as they affect your offroad performance, efficiency, and comfort. Small size wheels have their advantages and disadvantages for offroad driving, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether they are better or worse than larger wheels. To choose the best size for your vehicle and terrain, you should consider the terrain and conditions, the vehicle type and specifications, and the personal preference and budget. By doing so, you can enjoy your offroad.

FAQs

What is the best tire pressure for offroad driving?

The best tire pressure for offroad driving depends on the type and size of your tires, the terrain and conditions, and the vehicle weight and load. Generally, you want to lower your tire pressure when driving offroad, as it can increase your traction, stability, and comfort. However, you should not lower it too much, as it can increase the risk of punctures, damage, and bead separation. A good rule of thumb is to reduce your tire pressure by 25% to 35% from the recommended street pressure, and check it regularly with a gauge. You should also re-inflate your tires to the normal pressure when you return to the pavement, as low pressure can affect your handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.

How can I improve the suspension of my offroad vehicle?

The suspension of your offroad vehicle is the system that connects your wheels and tires to your chassis and body. It is responsible for absorbing shocks and vibrations, maintaining your vehicle’s alignment and stability, and adjusting your vehicle’s height and clearance. To improve the suspension of your offroad vehicle, you can upgrade some of the components, such as the springs, shocks, struts, sway bars, bushings, and lift kits. These can enhance your ride quality, performance, and durability, as well as allow you to fit larger tires and wheels. However, you should also consider the cost, compatibility, and legality of these modifications, as they can affect your warranty, insurance, and safety.

What are some tips for driving safely offroad?

Driving offroad can be a fun and adventurous activity, but it can also be dangerous and risky. To drive safely offroad, you should follow some of these tips:

Plan your route and prepare your vehicle. You should research the terrain and conditions, and check the weather and road conditions before you go. You should also inspect your vehicle and make sure it is in good shape and has enough fuel, water, and spare parts. You should also pack some emergency and survival items, such as a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a flashlight, a compass, a map, a phone, and a radio.
Know your vehicle and its limits. You should familiarize yourself with your vehicle and its features, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, and differential. You should also know your vehicle’s dimensions, weight, clearance, angles, and capabilities, and avoid pushing it beyond its limits. You should also respect your vehicle and treat it well, and avoid abusing or overloading it.
Drive slowly and carefully. You should drive at a safe and comfortable speed, and adjust it according to the terrain and conditions. You should also drive smoothly and gently, and avoid sudden or harsh movements, such as accelerating, braking, or turning. You should also drive attentively and cautiously, and watch out for obstacles, hazards, and wildlife. You should also drive defensively and courteously, and follow the rules and etiquette of the road.
Be ready for anything. You should be prepared for any situation or problem that might occur, such as getting stuck, lost, or injured. You should also be ready to deal with any challenge or difficulty that might arise, such as crossing a river, climbing a hill, or navigating a trail. You should also be flexible and adaptable, and willing to change your plans or directions if necessary.

What are some of the best offroad destinations in the world?

The world is full of amazing and diverse offroad destinations that can satisfy your thirst for adventure and exploration. Some of the best offroad destinations in the world are:

Moab, Utah, USA. Moab is a mecca for offroad enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of trails and terrains, such as slickrock, sand, dirt, and gravel. Moab is also home to some of the most iconic and scenic landmarks, such as Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Rubicon Trail, California, USA. Rubicon Trail is a legendary and challenging trail that stretches for 22 miles in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Rubicon Trail is known for its steep and rocky sections, as well as its beautiful and remote scenery, such as Lake Tahoe, Loon Lake, and Rubicon Springs.
Sahara Desert, Africa. Sahara Desert is the largest and hottest desert in the world, covering most of North Africa. Sahara Desert is a vast and diverse landscape, featuring sand dunes, salt flats, mountains, oases, and ancient ruins. Sahara Desert is also a rich and vibrant culture, inhabited by various nomadic tribes, such as the Berbers, Tuaregs, and Bedouins.
Patagonia, South America. Patagonia is a region that spans across Argentina and Chile, at the southern tip of South America. Patagonia is a stunning and wild place, boasting some of the most spectacular and diverse natural wonders, such as glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, forests, and wildlife. Patagonia is also a place of history and adventure, featuring some of the most famous and challenging routes, such as the Carretera Austral, the Ruta 40, and the Pan-American Highway.
Outback, Australia. Outback is a term that refers to the remote and rural areas of Australia, covering most of the continent. Outback is a rugged and vast terrain, comprising of deserts, plains, hills, and rocks. Outback is also a place of mystery and legend, hosting some of the most iconic and sacred sites, such as Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and the Olgas.

Where can I buy quality offroad wheels and tires?

There are many places where you can buy quality offroad wheels and tires, both online and offline. Some of the factors that you should consider when buying offroad wheels and tires are the size, type, tread, load, speed, and rating of the products, as well as the price, warranty, and service of the sellers. Some of the places where you can buy quality offroad wheels and tires are:

Amazon. Amazon is one of the largest and most popular online marketplaces, where you can find a wide range of products, including offroad wheels and tires. Amazon offers competitive prices, fast and free shipping, and customer reviews and ratings. You can also use Amazon’s filters and tools to narrow down your search and compare different products.
Tire Rack. Tire Rack is one of the leading and most reputable online retailers of tires, wheels, and accessories. Tire Rack offers a huge selection of brands, models, and sizes, as well as expert advice and recommendations. You can also use Tire Rack’s test results and surveys to find the best products for your needs and preferences.
4 Wheel Parts. 4 Wheel Parts is one of the largest and most trusted offline and online distributors of offroad parts and accessories, including wheels and tires. 4 Wheel Parts offers a variety of products, from budget-friendly to premium-quality, as well as installation and service. You can also use 4 Wheel Parts’ coupons and deals to save money and get discounts.