daveh
Adventurer
This topic has been debated, critiqued, and argued on numerous forums. Now that I have spent a decent amount of time with both tire sizes I figured it was time to post a brief review for those pondering which to purchase.
I drive a 2012 JKUR auto with 3.73 gears and the AEV 2.5 suspension. I had originally upgraded from the stock Rubicon KMs to the 285/75 KM2. Road noise and vibration increased slightly but braking, steering, and throttle response all seemed relatively close to stock. Increased vibration could be contributed to the 285 being an E load tire. Mounted size was a bit over 33". Off-road performance was as expected. Miles of Vermont class 4 roads though deep mud and sharp rocks were completed without a puncture or a single moment were I thought the tires would leave me stuck.
I now have about 800 miles on my new 35/12.5 KM2s. The additional height, weight, and width of the 35s is noticeable while driving. Braking distance feels longer, throttle response/acceleration is noticeable, and steering feel has changed. I can feel the road grooves and an increase in the feeling that the vehicle has a tendency to wander with the wider tires. The 35s measure slightly over 33.5" at 28 PSI.
I like the look of the 35s and it's nice to have a small increase in ground clearance, but overall I believe the 285 is a much better choice for a JK that will be primarily used for overlanding. I haven't noticed a difference off-road, but on road the 285s are the better performers.
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I drive a 2012 JKUR auto with 3.73 gears and the AEV 2.5 suspension. I had originally upgraded from the stock Rubicon KMs to the 285/75 KM2. Road noise and vibration increased slightly but braking, steering, and throttle response all seemed relatively close to stock. Increased vibration could be contributed to the 285 being an E load tire. Mounted size was a bit over 33". Off-road performance was as expected. Miles of Vermont class 4 roads though deep mud and sharp rocks were completed without a puncture or a single moment were I thought the tires would leave me stuck.
I now have about 800 miles on my new 35/12.5 KM2s. The additional height, weight, and width of the 35s is noticeable while driving. Braking distance feels longer, throttle response/acceleration is noticeable, and steering feel has changed. I can feel the road grooves and an increase in the feeling that the vehicle has a tendency to wander with the wider tires. The 35s measure slightly over 33.5" at 28 PSI.
I like the look of the 35s and it's nice to have a small increase in ground clearance, but overall I believe the 285 is a much better choice for a JK that will be primarily used for overlanding. I haven't noticed a difference off-road, but on road the 285s are the better performers.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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