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how to select golf cart tires

by Junior Kautzer Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Buying Guide: How to Choose The Best Golf Cart Tires

  • Tire construction. This is the very first issue to consider. If the tires are not up to the mark, you cannot expect...
  • Versatility. On the other part, the tires should also be versatile. They must be applied to different types of vehicles.
  • Easy assembly. If the tire is not easy to assemble, you may not enjoy the ride.

Proper Ply/Tread - Make sure that you're selecting the proper ply/tread for the terrain where you'll be driving. For example, you won't want to buy 2 ply tires if you're going offroading. Rotate Tires Regularly - Uneven weight differences between the front and rear of the golf cart can cause wear and tear.

Full Answer

What kind of tire tread do I need for my golf cart?

One of the more difficult parts of buying golf cart tires for the first time is determining what kind of tire tread you need. There are three types of tire treads when it comes to golf carts; turf/street, off road/knobby and all-terrain. Some all-terrain and knobby tires may also be directional tires.

Can I use my golf cart on the golf course?

If you have meaty tires on your cart, chances are the golf course won’t approve. These tires tend to leave massive ruts, and can tear up a course quickly if it’s wet. If you plan to use your golf cart on a golf course, then you’ll need “turf approved” tires.

How to install pre mounted wheels on a golf cart?

The first thing you should do before installing your new pre-mounted wheels is to slide a small jack or lift under the chassis of the golf cart. While keeping all the tires on the ground, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you plan to replace. After everything is loosened you may need to remove the valve stem from the tire, using a special tool.

What is the largest tire size for a golf cart?

Most tires available in the market are already huge upgrades from stock tires, and most of them are ready to be mounted. There are also larger tires available and the list includes 22×10-10, 22×11-10, and 11×9.5-10. What are the different tire treads for golf cart tires?

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What size tires should I put on my golf cart?

Thankfully, most golf cart tires are standardized – most of these vehicles are around the same size and require similar tire widths and heights. The most standard golf carts need an 18” tall tire with an 8” width. The standard golf cart tire size is typically 18” tall by 8” to 8.5” wide.

What do the numbers mean on a golf cart tire?

Golf Cart Tire Sizes The first number, 18, is the full diameter of the tire - how tall it is in inches from top to bottom. The second number, 8, indicates how many inches wide it is. The last number, 10, is the size of the center of the tire - in other words, what size wheel will fit the tire.

How much faster are golf carts with bigger tires?

Instead, the speed magic is all about surface area. The larger surface area of the bigger tires and wheels increases the maximum possible miles per hour. In some cases, this can be a boost of 300%! The bigger the tires, the better the speed.

What size tires will fit EZ Go golf cart?

EZ-GO Golf Carts: Most non-lifted (stock) EZ-GOs can fit up to a 215/50-12 (20.5") tire without rubbing if there is no added weight on the back of the cart (flip seat, cargo box, etc.).

What does tire size 22x11 10 mean?

The numbers 22-11-10 represent the dimensions of the tire. The first number is the height, the second number is the width & the third number is the diameter of rim that it will fit on. The width of the rim is not as important to know.

How do I make my golf cart ride smoother?

How to Make a Golf Cart Ride SmootherCorrect Tire Pressure. ... Replace Worn Out Shocks and Struts. ... Check the Fluid and Filter. ... Replace the Clutch. ... Flat Spot in Tire. ... Tire Damaged or Out of Line. ... Worn Out Suspension Bushings. ... Check Your Lift/Tire Combo.More items...

Is 30 mph fast for a golf cart?

Depending on how far you want to go on a full charge, you might want a 40mph or a 30mph golf cart. At top speed, most golf carts do around 14mph. However, with the advent of street legal golf carts and modifications, it is possible to go 35mph and above.

Will taller tires make my golf cart faster?

Larger tires make your cart move faster because they add more leverage to the mechanical movement of your golf cart. The resistance in the axle goes down and it doesn't have to work as hard to get you moving. That means with the same amount of motor power, you'll go a good bit faster with the new, larger tires on.

Can you put bigger tires on a golf cart without a lift kit?

All non-lifted golf carts can take 18.5" tall tires, but some can take a little bigger, i.e., EZGO & Yamaha Drive can take 20" without a lift. What High Profile / All-Terrain style tires/wheels can I put on Lifted Golf Carts? Lifted golf carts can fit ANY 8” tire, low profile OR high profile.

Can you put car tires on a golf cart?

0:143:28What Tires for My Club Car? | ASK DAVE | Golf Cart Garage - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMost golf carts come from the factory with a stock size 18 to 18 and a half inch tall tire. In orderMoreMost golf carts come from the factory with a stock size 18 to 18 and a half inch tall tire. In order to increase this tire height a club car will need a lift kit.

Do golf cart tires need balancing?

All four wheels must be in balance for best performance. The balancer is simple, with a handle that allows you to spin the wheel and see whether it's appropriately balanced. It is unbalanced if the wheel wobbles in any direction or stops spinning. If you feel any vibration, balance your tires.

Are all golf cart wheels the same?

The golf cart wheels sold on this site all have a bolt pattern of 4x4 (4 inches by 4 inches, or 101.6mm apart). This is standard on all golf carts (Yamaha, Club Car, EZGO, Par Car, STAR EV, Harley Davidson, etc.).

How much taller is a 215 than a 205?

The diameter of the 205 is 26.3 inches and for the 215 the diameter is 26.7 inches. That is 0.4 inches of difference meaning that it would raise the height of the trailer by 0.2 inches.

How do you read a tire size?

The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio. For example, in a size P215/65 R15 tire, the 65 means that the height is equal to 65% of the tire's width. The bigger the aspect ratio, the bigger the tire's sidewall will be.

How do you measure a golf cart wheel?

0:346:39How to Measure Your Golf Cart Wheels & Golf Cart ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe will have to measure from where the tire mouse on the top to where the tire mounts on the bottom.MoreWe will have to measure from where the tire mouse on the top to where the tire mounts on the bottom. We can get this measurement I measure the entire wheel and deducting a half inch on each side.

What is the tire pressure for golf cart tires?

15 to 25 pounds per square inchThese tires typically use anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds per square inch (PSI), with the average being 20 to 22 PSI. For golf carts driven off-road or on rougher terrain, it's not uncommon to under-inflate tires to gain additional traction.

What size tires do golf carts use?

So the average golf cart uses an 18 inch tall tire, with a width of 8.5 inches and fits on an 8 inch wheel. Not all golf cart tire sizes are measured this way though. You may also see them listed as 205/50-10—similar to an automotive tire. In this method the first number represents the tire's width in millimeters.

What type of tires are used on golf carts?

A golf cart that has not been lifted usually has low-profile tires—turf/street style tires like this Tyre Guider GF04. These come in different sizes, but overall, they are thinner and good for use with dry, paved roads. The tires have stiffer sidewalls, and when combined with a better grip on smooth terrain, there is more wheel control and response. Low-profile tires are efficient and quick. The majority of the time you'll see low profile tires with the automotive style measurement (e.g. 205/50-10)

What are golf cart tires made of?

When shopping for rims you will find them in different sizes, styles, and colors. Golf cart wheels can be made from aluminum or steel. Steel wheels are typically less expensive, while aluminum wheels give you a wider selection of styles and colors to choose from.

How to measure tire size?

Stand the tire up and take a measurement from the top of the tire all the way down to the floor (with the tire laying down flat measure directly across the center from edge to edge) this is the tire height/overall diameter. Next measure, the width of the tire by measuring across from one side of the tread to the other. Now measure the diameter of the center hole—or the wheel if your tire is mount ed to determine wheel size. The style of the tire you are looking for, all terrain or turf/street tires, will usually determine whether you need to put those measurements into inches or millimeters.

What are all terrain tires?

They are also decent on the street, however with their higher profile design they can feel a bit less planted than low profile tires. With the added height that all terrain tires provide they will help give your golf cart more clearance when you venture off road. Aside from their ability to travel across a variety of surfaces, many people like to install all terrain tires on their golf cart because they like the look and customized appearance they provide. If you spend the majority of the time using your golf cart for golfing, you probably don't want to have all terrain tires—unless you enjoy getting harassed by the course marshal. Additionally, all terrain tires are quite a bit larger and are available in larger sizes than most turf/street style golf cart tires. With bigger all terrain tire sizes comes limitations, meaning you may need to make modifications in the form of a lift kit to gain clearance if you want to install tires that are quite a bit larger than a stock golf cart tire.

How fast is the Sahara Classic Golf Cart?

The Excel Tire Sahara Classic Golf Cart Tire is beefy all-terrain tire has tread that works well both on and off the road and is capable of handling speeds up to 62 miles per hour. The size doesn't impact sound, as it rolls quietly and makes for a smooth ride.

How tall is a golf cart tire?

The biggest tire you can fit will most likely be 18.5 inches-20 inches tall. This all depends on the year/make/model of your golf cart.

How to measure golf cart tire size?

First, take a tape measure and record the height of the tire (from the top to the floor at the widest point), the width of the tire tread, and the diameter of the tire.

What size tires do golf carts need?

The most standard golf carts need an 18” tall tire with an 8” width. The standard golf cart tire size is typically 18” tall by 8” to 8.5” wide. However, some golf carts will require slightly different ...

What happens if you calculate offset on golf cart tires?

If your tire’s offset is calculated incorrectly, it could cause the tire to wear down faster and it puts you at risk of a blowout. In order to determine your golf cart tire’s offset, look at the factory tires to see if the measurement is already printed.

Why do people use golf carts?

Many people use them on large pieces of property or to simply drive around the neighborhood. Golf carts are also commonly used by hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to haul equipment or explore nature. The tires on your golf cart play an important role in the safety and comfort of your ride.

What are all terrain tires?

All-terrain golf cart tires are designed with a smoother, shallow tread for driving on soft turf and roads, but still offer enough traction to take things off the road, such as on the beach or loose dirt trails. These tires are not as heavy-duty as off-road tires, so they are recommended for light off trail driving.

What are golf cart rims made of?

You can even get rims in various colors to really give your cart a more customized look. Typically, golf cart rims are made from steel or aluminum, and prices will vary depending on the material. Steel models tend to be less expensive while aluminum rims cost more and can be modified for a more customized appearance.

What is the most common use for a golf cart?

Of course, the most common use for a golf cart is on the golf course. Turf and street tires are designed to be used on both paved roads and soft turf, and they are typically the standard factory tires that will come with a new golf cart.

How many tires does a Yamaha drive golf car have?

Newer Yamaha DRIVE model golf cars can fit a 20” tire. If your golf car has a rear seat kit, cargo box, or an older, worn out suspension, you may need to go smaller with the tires or install a lift kit.

What is the diameter of a 215/50 tire?

The wheel for this tire is 12” in diameter. It is a bit different for a turf or street tire, as they are sized similarly to vehicle tires: 215/50-12 - This first number is the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number is the ratio of the sidewall to the width.

What is radial tire?

Before shopping for golf car tires, brush up on these common terms: Radial: Radial tires have cord plies that run perpendicular to the direction of travel. Many street tires are radial. Tread Depth: The vertical measurement between the top of the tread rubber to the bottom of the deepest groove is the tread depth.

What is a low profile tire?

Low Profile: Low profile tires typically accommodate bigger wheels and have skinnier sidewalls. All Terrain: Similar to offroad tires, all terrain tires have a deeper, more rugged tread. They are not typically permitted on golf courses and can be noisy on the street.

Can radial tires damage golf courses?

The rubber is softer and the tread is shallow, so the tires will not damage the golf course. Street: If most of your driving is on the street, you may opt for a radial tire. Radial tires have cord plies that are arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of travel.

How big of tires do you need for a plain jain golf cart?

You can dress-up your plain-Jain golf cart by using 14-inch, 12-inch, 10-inch, or 8-inch tires and wheels. Bigger tires are available for golf carts which were lifted by lift kits.

How big are golf tires?

Factory golf car tires are usually 18 inches tall, 8.5 inches wide, and has an inner bead diameter of 8 inches.

What is the tread pattern on a golf cart?

One of the most common golf cart tire tread is directional. You have to be extra careful in mounting these kinds of tires and in placing them on the appropriate sides so that you’ll allow the treads to rotate in a forward manner. Another common tread pattern is called sand tires.

Why are sand paddles on a tire?

Sand responds differently from challenging terrains. The paddles on the tire are specifically designed to afford maximum traction since sand has a good chance of moving and sliding. Knobby tires are manufactured in hundreds of dissimilar tread designs and patterns.

What are the lug nuts on golf tires?

Lug Nuts and Center Caps. Most of the golf tire car manufacturers have lug nuts and center caps which comes in a variety of colors and size s. Reputable and reliable golf car tire stores often stock the most trustworthy and the best manufacturer of these tire and rims combo.

How much air pressure should I use for a golf cart?

As little air pressure as 12 to 15 PSI is used for added traction. Always remember that the greater the tire pressure, the higher the risk of the golf cart to roll. Additionally, the greater the tire pressure, the stiffer the riding convenience and the faster premature tire wear.

What can extend the wheelbase of a golf cart?

If you want to extend the wheelbase of your golf cart, what can give your golf cart the stance you prefer is none other than the wheel spacers. Majority of the wheel spacers that are available in the market are cast from solid aluminum, made especially to add durability and for added strength.

What type of tires do golf carts need?

There are three types of tire treads when it comes to golf carts; turf/street, off road/knobby and all-terrain. Some all-terrain and knobby tires may also be directional tires. This means those tires need to be installed ...

What are directional golf cart tires?

Some all-terrain and knobby tires may also be directional tires. This means those tires need to be installed facing a specific direction due to how the tread pattern is designed. There are dozens of reputable brands and dozens of styles for each type of tire. Some of the better known golf cart tire brands are Carlisle Tires, Nanco Tires, WDT, ...

What is a golf cart?

A golf cart may be one of the most versatile vehicles out there. In addition to their principal application on the golf course, they are frequently used by home owners with large properties, Hunting and Outdoor Enthusiasts, or on neighborhood paths and streets as an alternative, and convenient mode of transport.

Can you research golf cart tires?

For this reason, it can be hard to research and shop for golf cart tires when they come due for replacement. Golf carts are a fun and economical mode of local transportation. Fortunately for you, you won’t need to search high and low for a specialty shop to find some information on golf cart tires.

Can you use off road tires on pavement?

Off road/knobby tires are recommended almost exclusively for outdoorsmen and would make for an uncomfortable and bumpy ride if you were to use them on the street. Tread-life would also be a problem as the rubber is not optimized for exclusive use on pavement.

Do golf cart tires tear up fairways?

These tires were designed not to tear up the fairways and sensitive turf as you drive from hole to hole on the golf course and are what’s best if you just want a smooth ride through your neighborhood. If you just use your golf cart to drive around your neighborhood or get you through your 18 holes then turf/street golf cart tires are recommended.

What is a golf cart tire?

The golf cart Tire is pretty much what you’d expect. It’s a big piece of black rubber that is shaped around the silver metal that supports the tire. That silver metal part is called the wheel. A rim is just another name for a wheel. So if you’re confused about the difference between rim and wheel, there is none.

What does it mean when a golf cart tire is DOT approved?

DOT Approved. If your tires are DOT approved, this means that they are certified through the Department of Transportation. The treads are designed for road use, and will come in sizes such as 8”, 10”, 12” and 14” for your golf cart wheels.

What are knobby tires?

Knobby Tires – Knobby tires can come in hundreds of different tread patterns. Most of the differences are very slight, but the shapes of the knobs will help you depending on the terrain they are being used in. Sand Tires – These are going to be a little different from your standard golf cart tires.

How long do golf cart tires last?

Depending on the amount of use they get, and how hard you ride, tires will last anywhere between 2 and 4 years.

Why are golf cart wheels so popular?

Golf cart wheels are becoming more popular in the custom golf cart industry, and for good reason. They make the golf cart stand out, and add a level of awesomeness that turns heads when it rolls down the road.

What does PSI mean on tires?

PSI is the pressure in which your tires air is measured. PSI stands for Pounds Per Square Inch. Most tires have their max PSI listed on the side of the tire, that way you won’t overfill when adding air to your tires.

What size tires do you need for a club car?

You can find High Profile tires in sizes such as 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches. If you own a Club Car, EZGO, or Yamaha, you’ll be able to get away with an 8” all terrain tire without a lift kit. As you can see, the type of tire you purchase can directly affect whether you’re going to need a lift kit.

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