AT Tires R Pod 171

LA, I agree with you. I think the aggressive tread pattern is essentially for marketing purposes. If you like the looks of the LT tread then fine, just know they will reduce your fuel economy slightly.

Linda&Gino, you raise a good point re the Rpod wheels. Wheels have load ratings too, just like tires. It turned out the original 14 inch wheels on my 2015 179 were only rated for 1750 lbs, like the tires. When I upgraded I bought pre mounted 15 inch tires and wheels with IIRC around a 2400 lb rating. My 179 was loaded pretty heavy so I had no rough ride issues.

I bought the wheels and tires online and mounted them myself, no big deal. What I saved on mounting costs and selling the existing tires and wheels on CL paid for the upgraded wheels. Few folks want to buy used tires because it's not really worth mounting them but mounted on wheels there seemed to be a ready market.

We run the same brand and weight rating tire as Jato, replacing Westlake junk (also D weight range).  We've had them for a couple years and they're performing very well.  The trailer tracks well in cross-winds and on wet pavement, the pressure (unlike the Westlakes) is maintained while traveling, and the tread wear is even and minimal.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgRdX8G4A84

Similar in concept to the axle and suspension on Black Series trailers. Now you have swing arm bearings, shocks, probably some preload settings. No thanks.

+1 to OG.  Not only will their stuff be all over the trailer floor, but encouraging that kind of driving in delicate ecosystems will cause irreparable damage to the fragile forest and desert lands.  The ruts, holes, and erosion on the dirt roads will only get worse and the places we wish to visit for peace and quiet and connecting with nature will be badly damaged.  And who will end up paying for the remediation?  We will, either in higher camping fees or areas closed off due to damage.