Ever thought about upgrading the tires on your Honda Pioneer 700? The stock tires are okay for basic trails, but if you’re tackling tougher terrain or just want a smoother ride, a tire upgrade can make a huge difference. I remember when I first got my Pioneer, I quickly realized the stock tires weren’t cutting it on my favorite rocky trails. So, I started researching, and let me tell you, it’s a rabbit hole! To save you some time and effort, I’ve put together a list of some of the best tires you can get for your Honda Pioneer 700.
Before diving into the reviews, here’s a quick overview of the tires we’ll be covering. These tires were selected based on performance, durability, and overall value.
- Maxxis Bighorn 2.0: All-around performance, great for various terrains.
- ITP Mud Lite AT: Excellent mud traction, lightweight design.
- Kenda Bearclaw K299: Aggressive tread, durable construction.
- Sedona Mud Rebel RT: Designed for mud and soft terrain, enhanced sidewall protection.
- GBC Kanati Mongrel: DOT-approved, great for hardpack and trails.
Top 5 Best Tires For Honda Pioneer 700
1. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0
The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 is a popular choice for UTV owners because of its versatility. It’s a radial tire, which means it offers a smoother ride and better handling compared to bias-ply tires. Plus, the Bighorn 2.0 is known for its long-lasting tread and resistance to punctures.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent all-around performance on various terrains.
- ✅ Radial construction provides a smooth and comfortable ride.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting tread life.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- ❌ Not the best choice for extreme mud conditions.
- ❌ Sidewall could be more aggressive for rock crawling.
Verdict: The Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 is a great choice if you want a versatile tire that performs well in most conditions. It’s ideal for riders who encounter a mix of trails, hardpack, and occasional mud.
2. ITP Mud Lite AT
The ITP Mud Lite AT is designed for riders who frequently encounter muddy conditions. Its aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction in the mud, while its lightweight design helps maintain performance and fuel efficiency. I remember one time getting stuck in some thick mud with my old tires; I wish I had these then!
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent mud traction thanks to the aggressive tread pattern.
- ✅ Lightweight design improves acceleration and handling.
- ✅ Provides a surprisingly smooth ride on hard surfaces for a mud tire.
Cons:
- ❌ May wear faster on hardpack compared to other tires.
- ❌ Can be noisy on paved surfaces.
- ❌ Sidewall protection could be better for rocky trails.
Verdict: If you spend a lot of time riding in the mud, the ITP Mud Lite AT is an excellent choice. It offers great traction without sacrificing too much performance on other surfaces.
3. Kenda Bearclaw K299
The Kenda Bearclaw K299 is a durable and aggressive tire that’s built to handle tough terrain. Its angled lugs provide excellent traction in a variety of conditions, and its tough construction helps resist punctures and cuts. This is a solid choice if you need something that can take a beating.
Pros:
- ✅ Aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction.
- ✅ Durable construction resists punctures and cuts.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ Ride can be rougher compared to radial tires.
- ❌ May not perform as well in deep mud as dedicated mud tires.
- ❌ Can be heavier than some other options.
Verdict: The Kenda Bearclaw K299 is a great value if you need a tough and reliable tire that can handle a variety of terrains. It’s a good choice for riders who want a balance of performance and durability without breaking the bank.
4. Sedona Mud Rebel RT
The Sedona Mud Rebel RT is specifically designed for mud and soft terrain. It features deep, widely spaced lugs that provide excellent grip in the muck. The enhanced sidewall protection also helps prevent punctures when riding through rough terrain. These are great for swampy areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent mud traction with deep, widely spaced lugs.
- ✅ Enhanced sidewall protection for added durability.
- ✅ Aggressive look.
Cons:
- ❌ May not perform as well on hardpack or paved surfaces.
- ❌ Can be noisy at higher speeds.
- ❌ Might be overkill if you don’t ride in mud frequently.
Verdict: The Sedona Mud Rebel RT is a top choice for riders who primarily ride in muddy conditions. It offers exceptional traction and durability, ensuring you can power through even the toughest bogs.
5. GBC Kanati Mongrel
The GBC Kanati Mongrel is a DOT-approved tire that’s designed for hardpack and trails. Its tight tread pattern provides excellent grip on hard surfaces, while its durable construction helps resist punctures. Plus, because it’s DOT-approved, you can legally drive it on the road in some areas.
Pros:
- ✅ DOT-approved for on-road use in some areas.
- ✅ Excellent grip on hardpack and trails.
- ✅ Durable construction resists punctures.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the best choice for mud or soft terrain.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options.
- ❌ Ride can be a bit rougher than radial tires on uneven terrain.
Verdict: The GBC Kanati Mongrel is a great choice if you primarily ride on hardpack trails and want a DOT-approved tire for occasional on-road use. It offers excellent grip and durability in these conditions.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right tires for your Honda Pioneer 700 can be tricky, but here are a few things to consider:
- Terrain: Think about the type of terrain you ride on most often. Mud tires are great for muddy conditions, while all-terrain tires are better for a mix of surfaces. Hardpack tires excel on hard surfaces and trails.
- Tire Size: Make sure to choose tires that are the correct size for your Honda Pioneer 700. Check your owner’s manual or the sidewall of your current tires for the correct size.
- Ply Rating: The ply rating indicates the tire’s load-carrying capacity and resistance to punctures. Higher ply ratings are generally more durable but can also result in a stiffer ride.
- Tire Type: Bias-ply tires are more affordable and offer a stiffer sidewall, which can be beneficial for rocky terrain. Radial tires provide a smoother ride and better handling, especially at higher speeds.
- DOT Approval: If you plan to use your Honda Pioneer 700 on public roads, make sure to choose tires that are DOT-approved.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Honda Pioneer 700 tires:
Q: What size tires should I get for my Honda Pioneer 700?
A: The stock tire size for the Honda Pioneer 700 is typically 25×8-12 in the front and 25×10-12 in the rear. However, you can often go slightly larger without any modifications. Always check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Q: Can I use car tires on my Honda Pioneer 700?
A: No, you should not use car tires on your Honda Pioneer 700. Car tires are not designed for the type of terrain and use that UTV tires are. They may not have the necessary load-carrying capacity or puncture resistance.
Q: How often should I replace my UTV tires?
A: The lifespan of your UTV tires depends on several factors, including the type of terrain you ride on, your riding style, and the quality of the tires. As a general rule, you should replace your tires when the tread depth is worn down to 1/8 inch or when you notice significant damage or wear.
Q: What is the best way to maintain my UTV tires?
A: To maintain your UTV tires, regularly check the tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended pressure. Also, inspect the tires for any signs of damage, such as cuts, punctures, or bulges. Rotate your tires periodically to ensure even wear.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tires for your Honda Pioneer 700 can significantly improve its performance and your overall riding experience. Whether you need excellent mud traction, durable construction for tough terrain, or a smooth ride on hardpack trails, there’s a tire out there that’s perfect for you. Consider the type of terrain you ride on most often, your budget, and your specific needs when making your decision. Happy riding!
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