2010 LX 570 with 20" wheels and a nice ride but need new tires and want off road tires. Have always had 18" wheels on previous LC's and wondering how I will like the new 20" tires as opposed to the previous 18's? What draw backs are the 20's? Should I convert to 18" wheels? Suggestions please and thanks for response

 

I would suggest continuing w/ 18" wheels.

Off-road tires are available for 20's, but not as many choices as you have with 18's.

More importantly, 18's will give you better cushioning than 20's due to increased sidewall height. If you go with 20's, you're asking the suspension to do more in keeping the ride comfortable...leaving you with less margin if you're on a REALLY interesting "road".

If you want off road tires, the only logical choice is 18's (or even 17's). I can't see any reason why I'd keep the 20's.

Much info lately in the 200 series forum on mud.

 

I went with 18s for a few reasons... those mentioned above, plus the comparable cost for tires on those 20s! Wow, what a difference! Mine were mounted up this morning.

 

18" is definitely a much better choice. Not only substantially better off-road but also more comfortable on the highway. When driving somewhere on a rocky trail, the wheels are better protected and you can also improve traction by lowering your pressure (with 20" it's almost impossible, you risk damaging the tire).
If you plan to use your LX off-road more often, you can also use 17" wheels and instead of some AT tires you can use real off-road tires. But of course, it would strongly affect driving characteristics on the highway (and also your mpg).

 

18's migh last longer than 20's as well in terms of treadwear, but I don't know why. Just seen the warnings now and again that you can expect 20's to wear quickly.

That said, I stuck with the 20's and put on an aggressive tire. We'll see how it goes when all the snow is gone.



J

 

Your new tires look great.

We tried a drive from Centerville to Horseshoe Bend last year. What was easy with the '01 LX (Toyo AT's) was a little scary with the '13 Cruiser (OEM Michelin Latitude HP's). They were fine on the highway, but on even easy off road drives they just did not work.