255/80R17 in Inches: Dimensions, Performance, and Comparison

The 255/80R17 tire size measures 33.1 inches (840 mm) in overall diameter, 10 inches (255 mm) in tread width, and fits a 17-inch (431.8 mm) wheel. It features a sidewall height of 8 inches (204 mm), a circumference of 103.9 inches (2637.6 mm), and completes about 610 revolutions per mile (379 per km). 

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Tire Size and Dimensions: 255/80R17 in Inches & Mm

The 255/80R17 tire size is essential for off-road and heavy-duty vehicles. Below is a breakdown of its key dimensions and measurements, providing a clear understanding of the tire’s structure.

This table represents the essential size and measurement details of the 255/80R17 tire, ensuring you understand its width, sidewall height, and other important features.

What Does 255/80R17 Mean?

255/80R17 is a tire size designation that contains crucial information about the tire’s dimensions and construction:

• 255: The width of the tire in millimeters. This means the tire is 255 mm wide.
  
• 80: The aspect ratio, which represents the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of the tire’s width. In this case, the sidewall height is 80% of 255 mm, or about 204 mm.
  
• R: Denotes radial construction, which is the most common tire construction used today. Radial tires offer excellent durability, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  
• 17: Indicates the diameter of the wheel the tire is designed to fit, measured in inches. The 255/80R17 tire is made for a 17-inch wheel.

Load Capacity and Speed Rating

The 255/80R17 tire typically features a high load capacity, making it ideal for heavy-duty vehicles:

• Load Capacity: A load index of 121/118, allowing the tire to carry up to 3,415 lbs per tire.
• Speed Rating: Common speed ratings for this tire include “Q” (99 mph) and “R” (106 mph), offering a safe balance between speed and durability.

These tires are robust enough to handle heavy loads, especially in off-road conditions, while maintaining a decent speed range for regular driving.

Performance and Durability of 255/80R17 Tires

255/80R17 tires are designed to offer both off-road capability and on-road comfort. Thanks to their large diameter and radial construction, they are ideal for vehicles that frequently encounter rough or uneven roads. Here are some key performance attributes:

• Off-Road Performance: The larger sidewall height and wide tread of the 255/80R17 tire provide better traction and cushioning, making it perfect for off-road use, including mud, sand, and gravel.
  
• Durability: The tire’s construction ensures it can handle heavy loads and rough terrains. It is built to last, providing extended tread life, which is an important feature for truck and SUV owners who use their vehicles for both daily commutes and rugged adventures.
  
• Comfort and Stability: With a higher sidewall, the tire provides a smoother ride over bumps and uneven ground. This makes it an excellent choice for long-distance driving and hauling heavy cargo, as it helps reduce road noise and vibrations.

255/80R17 vs. 285/70R17: Which Tire Size Is Right for You?

When choosing the right tire size for your vehicle, understanding the differences between similar options is essential for optimal performance. In this comparison, we will examine two popular tire sizes: 255/80R17 and 285/70R17. Both are widely used for off-road vehicles and light trucks, but they each come with unique advantages depending on your driving needs.

255/80R17 vs. 285/70R17: Key Differences at a Glance

Key Takeaways:

• 255/80R17 Tires offer a more balanced ride and are slightly better for fuel efficiency due to their narrower width. They are a solid choice for vehicles that prioritize a smoother, more stable ride on both on-road and off-road surfaces.
  
• 285/70R17 Tires provide a wider tread and increased overall diameter, making them an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts who need superior traction and ground clearance. However, this comes at the cost of slightly reduced fuel efficiency and a rougher ride compared to the 255/80R17 tires.
  

Common Applications of 255/80R17 Tires

The 255/80R17 tire size is predominantly used in off-road vehicles and light trucks. It provides excellent performance in rough terrains such as mud, dirt, and snow. Some common vehicles that use this tire size include:

• Toyota Tacoma
  
• Jeep Wrangler
  
• Land Rover Defender
  
• Ford F-150 (modified for off-road use)
  

These vehicles are popular among those who require high-performance tires for both on-road and off-road conditions.

Popular Brands and Models for 255/80R17 Tires

Several well-known tire brands offer 255/80R17 tires, each designed to meet different needs and driving conditions. Some popular options include:

• Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003: Ideal for mud terrains, providing aggressive tread patterns for enhanced off-road traction.
  
• Nitto Recon Grappler A/T: Known for balancing on-road comfort with off-road performance, making it suitable for all-terrain use.
  
• Falken Wildpeak A/T4W: Offers a smooth ride with great traction for all types of conditions, including snow and wet surfaces.
  

These tire models offer various features that cater to off-road, all-terrain, and on-road driving needs. Have tire troubles? Explore our Tire Repair services.

FAQs

1. What is the sidewall height of a 255/80R17 tire?

The sidewall height of a 255/80R17 tire is 8 inches (204 mm), representing 80% of the tire’s width.

2. Can I use 255/80R17 tires for off-road driving?

Yes, 255/80R17 tires are ideal for off-road driving, offering excellent traction and stability on rough terrains like mud, sand, and gravel.

3. What vehicles typically use 255/80R17 tires?

Common vehicles that use 255/80R17 tires include the Toyota Tacoma, Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, and modified Ford F-150s for off-road purposes.