Nitto Dune Grappler Tire Test

Friday, June 01, 2007

default image


When we first heard of flame-shaped tire tread blocks, we have to admit we were a little skeptical. Yet after a few testdrives and a couple of jaunts down a trail or two, we concluded that the new Nitto Dune Grappler Desert Terrains weren't just about bling. We wrapped a set of Grapplers around KMC's new Enduro 122 Desert Beadlocks and found that they performed like well-built all-terrain tires should, providing great all-around traction and comfortable highway performance. In fact, we didn't experience any loss of traction on any of the wet or dry surfaces on which we tested the tires.

Dune Grapplers are constructed of a soft rubber compound, which gives them heightened traction and the ability to conform to and grip uneven surfaces exceptionally well. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the new tires are less noisy on the highway than many other all-terrain tires. Nitto attributes this advantage to the unique tread design.

Dune Grapplers are offered in higher load-range ratings of "D" and "E" in certain sizes. These higher load ratings make the Nitto Dune Grappler Desert Terrain capable for use with heavyweight trucks. LT sizes are available with three-ply sidewall construction for increased puncture resistance. The Dune Grappler also features Nitto's Bead Block technology - a rim-protector feature designed to offer superior protection. The Dune Grappler is available in overall diameters of 32 to 34 inches to fit 15- to 22-inch wheel sizes, with additional sizes coming soon.

KMC is usually known for very flashy, high-quality, show-type wheels, but the company built these well-engineered beadlocks specifically for desert racing and recreational use. They have already seen action on some top racers' vehicles and have successfully endured many professional beatings.

Enduro 122s are one-piece pressure-cast from A356-T6 aluminum, and the lock ring is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. The wheels come with Grade 8 hardware (35 bolts per wheel) and have a load rating of 3,200 pounds. The proper torque specs for the bolts are 22 lb-ft. KMC Enduro 122 Desert Beadlocks were designed for Trophy Trucks and rockcrawling vehicles and are built strictly for recreational use.
ARTICLES