Choice of tire types......

[madprofessor]

Starting a new project, a scratch-build gokart with a modified Predator 212. Want to dual-purpose it with tires that will get traction offroad and crawl over things like curbs and holes, but will also be able to powerslide out on asphalt in a hotdog turn, maybe like when doing a doughnut. Slicks or big knobbies are obviously out of the question. Would like to get some input about other people's experiences with various treads and widths, especially about failures at either end of the spectrum, trail or street. What's really wrong in a tire is likely more important than what's right.

 

[JTSpeedDemon]

Well, if you want it to crawl over curbs, you're gonna need suspension, a heckuva lotta traction, and buttloads of torque.
You can get tires that you can break traction with on pavement and tackle reasonable trails with, but they'll wear out fast. It's always a trade off with tires.

 

[J.S.@SMS]

I'd recommend a set of turf tires (lawn mower tires). My stock predator breaks traction with them on limerock, I'm not sure if it would on asphalt. It does like to trench the yard, but it is a one wheel peel. Also, they're among the cheapest tires ($20-$30 each)

 

[Dingocat]

Turf savers.

 

[jpenn82]

I agree turf savers

 

[Hellion]

I fourth these guys' suggestions. Turf tires.

They're not all created equal however. I think Carlisle is a brand that keeps getting mentioned, and this style of "chevron" pattern...

 

[anickode]

Turf savers and probably at least 10-12 hp with a torque converter to do everything you're asking for. Probably 15" on the front and 18" on the back if crawling curbs is expected.

Without building that 212, you're not likely to be breaking that rear end loose for a power slide on bare pavement unless you're running small, skinny tires.

 

[madprofessor]

Appreciating the input. I've seen the tread and width on some turf tires on MFG Supply and some others, they do look like they'd be the best choice for dual-purpose. Not going to get very tall tires, but using 6" rims again, so they'll have fair ground clearance of the spindles and such. Built that last 212 up to 11-12 hp. plus, guessing well over that with the ridiculous compression I got into it. Will do same again, also with a torque converter again. Don't want to spill any secrets here, but I will say there will be 2 suspension setups to choose from when taking the new kart out for a spin. Either having your butt 2" off the street with barely any shock travel, or having a foot of clearance for your butt with crazy long shock travel. Found out I need a refresher course in geometry.