Most of us don’t learn to drive using off-road tires. At Off-Road Rim Financing, we realize that these tires have a bit of a learning curve due to their deep, wide grooves and lack of studs. Whether you plan on using off-road tires for their intended purpose of driving on non-standard terrains or you expect to use them on the street, there are some things you need to know about how to handle your vehicle with these wheels. Here are four tips for driving with off-road tires.

(Pro Tip: You can find lease-to-own off-road tires at excellent prices from Off-Road Rim Financing through Acima Credit or American First!)

Don’t Throttle

When off-roading, it’s not uncommon for tires to spin or slide. In these situations, it is often our instinctual reaction to squeeze more throttle. However, this typically hastens the deterioration of tires’ grip. For long-lasting tires, back off the gas in these scenarios. Instead, softly move the steering wheel back and forth so your tires can find traction. This puts to use the biting edges of off-road tires, digging into dirt and gripping rocks so your off-road vehicle doesn’t spin or slide.

Short Distances

If you plan on keeping off-road tires on your vehicle for your daily commutes around town, then it is best to keep these trips short. Because they aren’t designed for pavement, these tires may be a bit more difficult to handle and are often loud. But this is less of an issue if you keep your drives short. Also, off-road tires can handle turns and corners similar to traditional street tires because of their extra plies that prevent rolling.

Don’t Push Your Speed

For both driving on and off-road, it is often the best decision not to drive too fast. With mud tires, it is smart to only drive as fast as necessary while moving as slow as possible. However, when off-roading on softer surfaces such as sand or soil, you will likely need to use a higher gear so your tires float on top of the terrain instead of digging in. Moving too slow on mud trails can lead to a lack of traction, so there are instances when increasing your speed is essential, but driving too fast is not recommended.

Lower Your Tire Pressure

Lowering your tire pressure can increase your traction and make your vehicle ride smoother when off-roading. If you are sand-dune or deep-snow running, this trick should expand your tires, allowing you to ride on top of the terrain, rather than digging into the surfaces and getting stuck. In rockier locations, lower tire pressure can give you more grip so your vehicle can sidewall and mold itself around rocks.

No matter the circumstance you are preparing for, off-road tires can serve you well in all terrains. With these four pieces of advice in mind, you should be prepared for whatever comes your way. To find some of the best off-road tires on the market, contact Off-Road Rim Financing today!