what size tire for 8 inch rim

For an 8-inch rim, the most common sizes are 21x7-8 or 22x7-8. On a Rancher, 22s might fit but check your fender clearance first. I run 22s on my 2005 and had to trim the plastic a bit. They give better ground clearance but can affect acceleration.

Stick with 21s unless you're willing to regear. 22s will lug the engine on stock gearing, especially in mud. I learned that the hard way and had to swap sprockets. Save yourself the headache.

I've had good luck with Kenda Bear Claws in 21x7-8 on my 400EX. They're aggressive for mud but still rideable on gravel. Just make sure you get the right load rating for your ATV.

Don't forget to check the rim width. Some 8-inch rims are 5.5 inches wide, others are 7. Standard for Rancher is 7, but measure to be sure. A tire too narrow for the rim can cause bead seating issues.

I went with 22x7-8 Maxxis Bighorns on my 2003 Rancher and they fit without rubbing. But I did have to adjust the front bumper a little. The ride is smoother over rocks, but turning feels heavier.

Before you buy, confirm your model year. Some Ranchers have different offsets. A buddy put 22s on his 2006 and they rubbed the frame at full lock. He had to add spacers, which is sketchy for trail riding.

If you ride mostly mud, go with a radial tire like the ITP Mud Lite. They're lighter and clean out better. But they wear faster on gravel. For mixed use, a bias-ply like the SunF might be more durable.

I disagree with the guy saying 22s are always bad. On a Rancher with stock gearing, 22s are fine if you don't ride in deep mud or steep hills. I've run them for two seasons without issues. Just check your clutch engagement.

Whatever you pick, budget for new tubes and rim strips. Old tires dry-rotted means the tubes are probably shot too. I learned that after a blowout on the trail. Also, get a tire spoon set—mounting 8-inch tires is a pain.

I'd recommend 21x7-8 Carlisle Atv 489 tires. They're cheap, last long, and work decent in light mud. Not great for serious off-roading, but for gravel and trails they're fine. Plus, they fit on stock rims without mods.

Check the load index. A 21x7-8 typically carries around 500 lbs, which is fine for a Rancher. But if you ever tow or carry heavy loads, go for a 6-ply rated tire. I use 8-ply on my work quad.

You can also consider 20-inch tires if you want lower gearing for climbing. But they'll reduce ground clearance significantly. I tried 20s on my Rancher and bottomed out on every log. Not recommended for trails.

Make sure the tire's bead seat matches the rim. Some cheap tires have a different bead shape that leaks air. I had to return a set from an off-brand because they wouldn't seat properly on my 8-inch rims.

I run 21x7-8 on the front and 22x10-8 on the rear on my Rancher. That staggered setup works well for handling and traction. But you need to make sure the front and rear diameters match closely for 4WD engagement.

If you're on a tight budget, look for take-offs from someone who upgraded to bigger rims. I got a set of barely used 21s for $40 on Facebook Marketplace. Just inspect them for dry rot and uneven wear.

One thing nobody mentioned: tire pressure. On 8-inch rims, running too high pressure makes the ride harsh and increases wear. I run 5 psi in the rear and 4 in the front for trails. Adjust based on your weight.

I'd avoid 22s if you ride in tight, technical trails. The extra height makes the ATV tip easier on sidehills. I switched back to 21s after nearly rolling my Rancher. Stability is more important than clearance.

Check your wheel bearings too. Old tires often mean neglected bearings. While you have the wheels off, spin the hubs and listen for grinding. I replaced mine after finding play in the rear. Cheap insurance.

You might want to consider a tire and wheel combo if your rims are rusty. Some sellers offer 8-inch steelies with tires mounted and balanced. Saves you the hassle of breaking beads. I did that and it was worth the extra cost.

Final thought: whatever you buy, test fit one tire before mounting all four. I once bought a set that looked right but the valve stem hit the brake caliper. Had to return them. Better safe than sorry.