When it comes to squeezing the most capability out of your ATV, tires make a bigger difference than almost any other upgrade. Below is a blog‑style breakdown of three of the most consistently high‑performing options: the Kenda Bearclaw K299, Carlisle All Trail II, and ITP Mud Lite II.
Kenda Bearclaw K299: The All‑Terrain Workhorse
If there is a “default” choice for riders who see a bit of everything—roots, rocks, mud, snow, and hardpack—it is the Kenda Bearclaw K299. This tire is known for combining aggressive traction with manageable weight and reliable durability, making it a favorite for both trail fun and utility use.
Key advantages:
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Deep, claw‑shaped lugs that dig into soft terrain while still gripping on harder ground.
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Six‑ply construction that resists punctures from rocks, stumps, and debris.
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Tread design that sheds mud reasonably well so the tire does not pack up and lose bite.
Best use cases:
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Mixed trail riding in changing conditions.
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Hunters and outdoor workers who need dependable traction in remote areas.
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Riders who want one tire that can stay on the machine all year.
Carlisle All Trail II: Hardpack and Utility Specialist
Where the Bearclaw aims to handle everything, the Carlisle All Trail II focuses on stability, predictability, and long life on harder surfaces. It is designed for riders who spend more time on gravel roads, compact dirt, and around the property than in deep ruts and mud holes.
Key advantages:
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Low, wide profile that reduces body roll in corners and improves high‑speed stability.
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Tight, relatively shallow tread blocks that wear slowly and ride smoothly on firm surfaces.
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Controlled handling that makes it a natural fit for work machines, security units, and ranch ATVs.
Best use cases:
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Utility and ranch work where comfort and tread life are more important than extreme mud grip.
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Plowed trails, gravel roads, and hardpack fire roads.
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Riders who occasionally hit light mud but rarely seek out deep bogs.
ITP Mud Lite II: Mud‑Focused, Trail‑Capable
For riders who regularly face wet, sloppy conditions but still need to cover regular trails, the ITP Mud Lite II offers a strong balance. It provides serious bite in mud without being so heavy or specialized that it ruins the ride everywhere else.
Key advantages:
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Aggressive, angled lugs designed to claw through mud and clear out as the tire spins.
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Lightweight casing for a mud‑oriented tire, which helps acceleration and steering response.
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Versatile enough to handle general trail riding, not just mud bogs.
Best use cases:
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Regions with frequent rain, water holes, and soft ground.
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Trail networks that mix dry stretches with muddy low spots and creek crossings.
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Riders who want mud confidence without running a dedicated, ultra‑heavy mud tire.
How to Choose Between Them
When picking among these three, match the tire to your primary terrain and riding style:
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Choose Kenda Bearclaw K299 if you want an all‑rounder that can stay on year‑round and handle almost anything you throw at it.
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Choose Carlisle All Trail II if you mainly ride hardpack, gravel, and around the farm, and you care most about stability, comfort, and long tread life.
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Choose ITP Mud Lite II if mud is a regular part of your rides, but you still need to cover miles of regular trail without swapping tires.
Any of these three can transform how your ATV feels on the trail; the best choice is simply the one that matches where you ride most often.
