
At a glance:
- High-quality ATV tyres improve traction, durability, and handling across mud, sand, gravel, and rocky terrain.
- Top models like the Kenda Bearclaw K299, Wanda P350, Carlisle AT489, and Maxxis Liberty ML3 consistently outperform standard tyres in practical riding conditions.
- Comparing tread patterns, ply ratings, and load capacity helps identify tyres best suited to your usage.
- Choosing proven ATV tyre models ensures safer performance, better stability, and consistent value for recreational or work riders.
Selecting the right All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) tyres is crucial for safety and performance, no matter your riding conditions. The difference between an average tyre and a top-quality one comes down to traction, vehicle stability, durability, and predictable handling on mixed surfaces.
The right tyre can completely change how your ATV handles mud, sand, gravel, rocky trails, or farm tracks. The challenge is that not all ATV tyres are the same. Factors like tread design, ply rating, rubber compound, and load capacity determine how well a tyre performs in real-world conditions.
In this blog, we will review ATV tyres that consistently perform well on various terrains and riding styles. You’ll discover which models provide the best grip and real value for money, so that you can pick a tyre that fits how you ride, not just how it appears on paper.
What Defines a Top-Quality ATV Tyre
Before choosing an ATV tyre, you should know what makes an average tyre different from one that performs well in varying riding conditions. Below are the key factors to consider before purchasing tyres suited to varied riding conditions.
- All-Terrain Traction: A high-quality ATV tyre should grip well on every surface. Whether you’re riding through mud, loose gravel, sand, or compact dirt, the tyre must stay stable without slipping or digging in too deeply.
- Long Tread Life & Puncture Resistance: Durable tyres are built with stronger rubber compounds and higher ply ratings, which slow down tread wear and prevent punctures. A premium ATV tyre won’t thin out or crack after hard rides, since it’s engineered to withstand rough use without frequent replacement.
- High Load Rating for Work or Towing: If an ATV is used to haul trailers or farm equipment, the tyre must safely support the extra weight. A tyre with the correct load index stops squatting, blowouts, and rim damage while towing or carrying loads.
- Predictable Handling on Mixed Surfaces: A high-quality tyre performs reliably on wet, dusty, rocky, or uneven surfaces. Steady cornering, braking, and steering response build rider confidence, especially when changing terrain during a ride.
Top ATV Tyre Models That Perform Beyond Expectations
If you are struggling to narrow down your ATV tyre choices, we have listed some of the best and most popular ATV tyres to help you decide:
Kenda Bearclaw k299
The Kenda Bearclaw K299 generally weighs 17 to 18 pounds, depending on size, and has dimensions of 12 inches in height, 8 inches in width, and a rim size of 12 (25×8.00-12). It has built-in rim guards to protect the wheel from any dents, which is one of its unique features.
The central lugs on Bearclaw provide stability and extra traction, allowing it to run through thick surfaces, mud pits, snow, and soft terrain.
Carlisle AT489
Carlisle AT489 is perfect for both ATVs and UTVs, known for durability, versatile performance, and a smooth ride. It comes in sizes such as 22×9.5-10, 24 x 11-10, 24 x 8-12, 25 x 10-12, and 26 x 9-12. Make sure to check out the ATV tyre size you need for your vehicle before purchasing.
It’s manufactured with puncture-resistant tread compounds and a wide footprint design that provides strong traction and stability on soft, intermediate, and muddy conditions. It excels on small rocks, mud, and roads, and is suitable for both hard and soft terrain. It is also reliable for day-to-day use.
Read More: Impact of ATV Tyre Size on Performance
Wanda P350
The Wanda P350 is a versatile ATV tyre option for a variety of uses, available in different sizes and dimensions. It features a durable, multi-directional tread pattern for traction on dirt, mud, rock, desert, and similar challenging surfaces.
It also has shoulder lugs that further improve traction and protect the tyre on both the sidewall and the rim. The best thing about this tyre is that it’s made from heavy-duty 6-ply nylon, making it highly resistant to abrasion and punctures.
Kenda Claw K533
Kenda K533 Claw is designed for riders who need a tyre that works well in cross-country, motocross, and short-course racing. Its dual-rotation tread design lets you mount it in two directions based on the terrain. One setup is for softer ground, while the other works for medium to hard surfaces. This kind of versatility makes it a strong choice for riders who compete on mixed circuits instead of just one type of terrain.
With a lightweight casing and high-grip compound, this tyre reduces rotational weight for quicker acceleration and sharper response. It is available in sizes 18×10.50-8 (4-ply), 20×11.00-8 (6-ply), 20×11.00-9 (6-ply), and 20×11.00-10 (6-ply).
Kenda Knarly XC K535A
Built for riders who push their ATV through harsh cross-country terrain, the Kenda K535A Knarly is engineered to handle rocks, roots, ruts, and uneven ground without losing traction. They have oversized tread blocks that dig in aggressively, which gives reliable acceleration and braking control where softer tyres would skate.
Offered in 22×10.00-9 (4-ply), the Knarly is a GNCC-proven race tyre and remains a favourite for riders who want long-lasting ATV tyres with serious grip.
Duro Hook-Up DI2028
The Duro Hook-Up DI2028 is built with sport quad riders in mind. Designed for a confident grip and quick handling, this tyre performs exceptionally well on firm tracks, dry trails, and sandy terrain. Its radial construction provides a smoother ride at higher speeds and helps resist punctures, even during intense use.
The tread pattern enhances steering precision, acceleration, and cornering stability, giving riders the control they need for competitive performance. It is a go-to choice for riders seeking high-performance ATV tyres with low rolling resistance.
Maxxis Liberty ML3
This tyre model is perfect for riders who spend time on fast and open terrain because it offers strong stability at higher speeds. The 8-ply radial carcass gives the tyre the strength to carry heavier loads without losing ride comfort and flexibility.
Known for its long tread life, the Liberty ML3 performs well on sand, hardpack trails, and light road use, making it one of the best ATV tyres for off-road riding and desert racing. It comes in sizes 30×10.00R14, 32×10.00R14, and 32×10.00R15, all 8-ply.
Comparison Table For High-Performance ATV Tyres
Let’s compare how each ATV tyre model performs across terrain, ply rating, and ideal use.
| Brand & Model | Best Terrain Type | Ply Rating | Ideal Rider Use |
| Kenda Bearclaw K299 | Mud, snow, loose soil | 6-ply (most sizes) | Farm work, deep-terrain off-road riding |
| Wanda P350 | Mixed terrain – mud, dirt, rock, desert | 6-ply nylon | Budget riders needing durability for daily utility and farm use |
| Carlisle AT489 | Hardpack, gravel, light mud | 4-ply (varies by size) | OEM utility ATV replacement, everyday trail riding |
| Kenda Claw K533 | Cross-country, motocross, medium–hard terrain | 4-ply & 6-ply options | Race riders needing fast acceleration and directional grip |
| Kenda Knarly XC K535A | Rocky, root-covered XC terrain | 4-ply | GNCC-style racing, aggressive riders needing long-wear grip |
| Duro Hook-Up DI2028 | Dry trails, sand, sport tracks | 6-ply radial | Sport quad riders that need high-speed control and low rolling resistance |
| Maxxis Liberty ML3 | Sand, desert, hardpack, road crossover | 8-ply radial | High-speed off-road, trail/road crossover riders needing load stability |
Choosing the best all-terrain ATV tyres isn’t just about brand preference. It’s important to match the tyre to the terrain, the load you carry, and your riding style. The models listed above consistently perform better than standard tyres. They offer reliable grip, strong puncture resistance, and predictable handling even when conditions change.
With so many options on the market, comparing ply rating, tread design, construction type, and real-world rider use is the most effective way to make a confident choice. If you prioritise durability, traction, and long service life, the tyres in this list consistently deliver strong performance.
Looking for genuine, high-performance ATV tyres? Explore the full range of tyres from Oceanic Direct and choose the right fit for your vehicle. Contact us today for guidance on selecting the right tyre for your ATV.
FAQs
How often should ATV tyres be replaced?
ATV tyres should ideally be replaced every 5–6 years from the date of manufacture, even if the tread appears usable. Rubber hardens and weakens over time, which affects safety, traction, and puncture resistance.
Do radial and bias-ply ATV tyres perform differently, and which is better for mixed terrain riding?
Yes, radial and bias-ply ATV tyres perform differently due to their internal construction. Radial tyres flex more, providing better traction and control at higher speeds. Likewise, bias-ply tyres are tougher and better suited for slow, heavy-load work.
Can upgrading ATV tyres improve fuel efficiency or engine strain during towing or farm work?
Yes. Upgrading tyres with the right load rating, lower rolling resistance, and proper tread design can reduce engine strain. This helps your ATV use less fuel when towing or doing farm work.
How do I know if my ATV needs a higher ply rating or load index than the factory tyres?
You may need a higher ply rating or load index if your current tyres are wearing out quickly, are often damaged, or are struggling under heavy loads.





