So, you're looking to upgrade the wheels and tires on your Traxxas Summit? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Choosing the right wheels and tires can dramatically improve your Summit's performance, whether you're tackling rocky terrain, mud bogging, or just cruising around the backyard. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best choice for your needs and driving style. Let's dive in and get those wheels turning!

Understanding Traxxas Summit Wheels

When we talk about Traxxas Summit wheels, we're not just talking about something that makes your truck look cool (though that's definitely a bonus!). The wheels play a crucial role in how your Summit handles and performs. Factors like size, material, and design all contribute to the overall driving experience.

Key Considerations for Wheels

• Size Matters: The diameter and width of your wheels affect your Summit's ground clearance and stability. Larger diameter wheels can help you clear obstacles more easily, but they can also raise the center of gravity, making the truck more prone to tipping. Wider wheels provide more stability, but they can also increase rolling resistance.
• Material: Most Traxxas Summit wheels are made from durable plastic, but you can also find aluminum options. Aluminum wheels are stronger and can handle more abuse, but they're also heavier and more expensive. Plastic wheels are lighter and more affordable, but they may not be as durable.
• Beadlock vs. Non-Beadlock: Beadlock wheels have a special design that clamps the tire to the wheel, preventing the tire from slipping off the rim. This is especially important for high-torque applications or when running low tire pressures for maximum grip. Non-beadlock wheels are simpler and more affordable, but they may require gluing the tires to the rims.
• Offset and Backspacing: Offset and backspacing determine how far the wheel sits inside or outside the wheel well. Choosing the right offset and backspacing is important for ensuring that the wheels don't rub against the body or suspension components. These measurements affect the vehicle's track width and can influence handling characteristics. Incorrect offset can lead to accelerated wear on bearings and suspension parts. Always consult the manufacturer's recommendations or online resources to find the correct offset and backspacing for your Traxxas Summit.

Popular Wheel Options

• Stock Wheels: The stock Traxxas Summit wheels are a good starting point, offering a balance of performance and durability. They're a great option for general-purpose driving.
• Pro-Line Wheels: Pro-Line offers a wide range of wheels for the Traxxas Summit, including beadlock and non-beadlock options. Their wheels are known for their durability and performance.
• RPM Wheels: RPM wheels are another popular choice, known for their lightweight and impact resistance. They offer a variety of colors and styles to customize your Summit's look.

Exploring Traxxas Summit Tires

Tires are where the rubber meets the road, literally! The tires you choose will have a huge impact on your Summit's traction, handling, and overall performance. Different tire treads are designed for different terrains, so it's important to choose tires that match the type of driving you'll be doing. Selecting the right tires can greatly enhance your Summit's crawling capabilities, mudding prowess, and general trail performance.

Key Considerations for Tires

• Tire Tread: The tread pattern is the most important factor in determining a tire's performance. Aggressive treads with large lugs provide excellent traction on loose surfaces like dirt, mud, and sand. Tighter treads with smaller lugs are better for hard surfaces like pavement and rock. Consider the types of terrain you'll be driving on most often when choosing a tire tread. Hybrid treads offer a compromise, performing reasonably well on various surfaces.
• Tire Compound: The tire compound refers to the softness or hardness of the rubber. Softer compounds provide more grip, but they also wear out faster. Harder compounds last longer but may not offer as much traction. Softer compounds are ideal for rock crawling and technical terrain where maximum grip is essential. Harder compounds are better suited for high-speed driving and paved surfaces where durability is a priority.
• Tire Size: The diameter and width of your tires affect your Summit's ground clearance and stability, just like wheels. Larger diameter tires can help you clear obstacles more easily, but they can also raise the center of gravity. Wider tires provide more stability, but they can also increase rolling resistance. Ensuring your tire size is compatible with your chosen wheels is also key.
• Tire Inserts: Tire inserts are foam pieces that go inside the tires to provide support and prevent the tire from collapsing under the weight of the vehicle. Different densities of foam inserts are available to fine-tune the tire's performance. Softer foams allow the tire to conform to the terrain for maximum grip, while firmer foams provide more stability and prevent the tire from rolling over in corners.

Popular Tire Options

• Traxxas Canyon Trail Tires: The Traxxas Canyon Trail tires are a popular all-around choice for the Summit. They offer good traction on a variety of surfaces and are durable enough for everyday use. Great for trail running and general bashing.
• Pro-Line Hyrax Tires: The Pro-Line Hyrax tires are designed for rock crawling and offer excellent grip on even the most challenging terrain. Their aggressive tread pattern and soft compound make them a favorite among serious crawlers.
• Pit Bull Rock Beast Tires: Pit Bull Rock Beast tires are another excellent choice for rock crawling. They feature a unique tread pattern that provides exceptional grip and stability. Their patented design gives them a distinctive look and enhanced performance.
• Duratrax Bandito Tires: The Duratrax Bandito tires are a good option for all-terrain use. They offer a balance of traction and durability, making them suitable for a variety of driving conditions. Their versatile tread pattern performs well on dirt, gravel, and pavement.

Matching Wheels and Tires

Okay, so you know about wheels and tires individually, but how do you make sure they work well together? Matching the right wheels and tires is crucial for optimal performance and avoiding potential problems. Here’s the lowdown:

Ensuring Compatibility

• Size Matters (Again!): Make sure the tire's inner diameter matches the wheel's outer diameter. For example, a 2.2" tire will fit on a 2.2" wheel. This seems obvious, but double-checking can save you a lot of headaches.
• Width Considerations: The tire's width should be appropriate for the wheel's width. A tire that's too wide for the wheel can bulge and handle poorly. A tire that's too narrow can come off the rim easily. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for the ideal wheel width for your chosen tires.

Performance Considerations

• Balanced Performance: Think about how the wheel and tire combination will affect your Summit's overall performance. For example, a lightweight wheel paired with a heavy tire can create an unbalanced feel. Similarly, a stiff wheel paired with a soft tire may not provide the desired level of grip. Consider how the characteristics of the wheel and tire complement each other.
• Intended Use: Match the wheel and tire combination to your intended use. If you're primarily rock crawling, choose a wheel and tire combination that prioritizes grip and durability. If you're primarily bashing, choose a combination that prioritizes strength and impact resistance.

Installation Tips

So, you've got your new wheels and tires. Sweet! Now it's time to get them installed. Here are a few tips to make the process smooth:

Mounting Tires on Wheels

• Beadlock Wheels: If you're using beadlock wheels, carefully align the tire on the wheel and tighten the beadlock rings evenly. Use the correct torque setting to avoid damaging the rings or stripping the screws. Applying a small amount of thread locker to the screws can help prevent them from loosening over time.
• Non-Beadlock Wheels: If you're using non-beadlock wheels, you'll need to glue the tires to the rims. Clean the surfaces of the wheel and tire with a degreaser before applying the glue. Use a high-quality tire glue and apply it evenly to the bead of the tire. Press the tire onto the wheel and hold it in place until the glue dries. Repeat the process for both sides of the tire.

Attaching Wheels to Your Summit

• Tighten Lug Nuts Properly: When attaching the wheels to your Summit, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Avoid overtightening the lug nuts, as this can damage the wheel hubs or strip the threads. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's recommended torque setting.
• Check for Clearance: After installing the wheels, check for proper clearance between the tires and the body and suspension components. Make sure the tires don't rub against anything when the suspension is fully compressed or when the steering is at full lock. If you experience rubbing, you may need to adjust the body height or use wheel spacers to create more clearance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right wheels and tires for your Traxxas Summit can make a huge difference in its performance and appearance. By considering the factors outlined in this article and doing your research, you can find the perfect combination to suit your needs and driving style. So get out there and start exploring! Happy crawling, bashing, and trailing! I hope this guide has helped you make an informed decision and get the most out of your Traxxas Summit. Remember to always prioritize safety and have fun with your RC adventures!