So, you're the proud owner (or soon-to-be owner) of a 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, and you're probably wondering about tire sizes, right? You've come to the right place, guys! Let's dive deep into everything you need to know about fitting your beast with the perfect set of shoes. We'll cover stock sizes, what you can upgrade to without modifications, and even venture into the world of lifted Gladiators. Buckle up; it's going to be a detailed ride!

Understanding the Stock Tire Size

First things first, let's talk about what the 2023 Gladiator Rubicon rolls off the factory floor with. Knowing the stock tire size is crucial because it serves as your baseline. It dictates how your speedometer reads, how your transmission shifts, and, of course, your overall driving experience. The stock tire size for the 2023 Gladiator Rubicon is typically a LT285/70R17. Let's break that down:

• LT: This stands for Light Truck, indicating that the tire is designed for use on trucks and SUVs. These tires are built to handle heavier loads and tougher conditions than standard passenger car tires.
• 285: This is the section width of the tire in millimeters. In other words, it's the width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall.
• 70: This is the aspect ratio, which represents the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its section width. In this case, the sidewall height is 70% of 285mm.
• R: This indicates that the tire has a radial construction, which is the most common type of tire construction these days. Radial tires offer better fuel economy, handling, and ride comfort compared to older bias-ply tires.
• 17: This is the wheel diameter in inches. The tire is designed to fit on a 17-inch wheel.

Why is this important? Because sticking with the stock size ensures that all your Jeep's systems function as intended. Changing tire sizes can affect your speedometer accuracy, fuel economy, and even the performance of your anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC). Plus, staying stock avoids any potential rubbing issues, which nobody wants! However, we all know the allure of bigger tires, so let's explore those options.

Upsizing Without Modifications: What's Possible?

Okay, so you're itching for something a little beefier but don't want to dive into the world of lifts and modifications just yet. Totally understandable! The good news is that you can usually go a size or two larger than stock without major issues. Generally, many Gladiator Rubicon owners have success fitting 33-inch tires (approximately 285/75R17 or 285/70R18) without any modifications. However, there are a few crucial considerations:

• Wheel Offset: The offset of your wheels plays a significant role. If you're using the stock wheels, you're generally safe. However, if you're switching to aftermarket wheels with a different offset, you might run into rubbing issues, especially at full steering lock or when the suspension is fully compressed. A wheel with less backspacing (a more negative offset) will push the tire further out, potentially causing it to rub on the fender flares or bumper.
• Tire Brand and Model: Not all tires are created equal! Even if two tires are labeled with the same size, their actual dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers and even between different models from the same manufacturer. Aggressive mud-terrain tires, for example, often have larger overall diameters than all-terrain tires of the same size.
• Driving Style: If you primarily drive on the street, you're less likely to experience rubbing than if you're constantly hitting the trails and flexing your suspension. Off-roading puts your suspension through its full range of motion, increasing the chances of tire-to-fender contact.

Before you pull the trigger on a set of larger tires, it's always a good idea to do some research and see what other Gladiator Rubicon owners have successfully installed without modifications. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to the Gladiator are excellent resources for this kind of information. You can also talk to a reputable tire shop that specializes in off-road vehicles; they can offer expert advice based on your specific needs and driving style.

The World of Lifted Gladiators: Going Big!

Now, let's talk about the exciting stuff: lifting your Gladiator and fitting some serious rubber! Once you add a lift kit, the tire size possibilities really open up. The amount of lift you install will determine the maximum tire size you can safely and comfortably run. Here's a general guideline:

• 2.5-inch Lift: With a 2.5-inch lift, you can typically run 35-inch tires (e.g., 315/70R17 or 35x12.50R17) with minimal rubbing. You might still need to do some minor trimming of the plastic fender liners, especially if you're running aggressive mud-terrain tires.
• 3.5-inch Lift: A 3.5-inch lift provides even more clearance, allowing you to run 37-inch tires (e.g., 37x12.50R17) with a bit more room to spare. Again, some trimming might still be necessary, and you might also want to consider upgrading your bump stops to prevent the tires from contacting the fenders during extreme articulation.
• Larger Lifts (4 inches or more): If you're going for a truly aggressive look and maximum off-road capability, you can opt for a larger lift. With lifts of 4 inches or more, you can even run 39-inch or 40-inch tires! However, at this point, you're likely going to need to make significant modifications, including re-gearing your axles, upgrading your steering components, and possibly even modifying your suspension geometry.

Keep in mind that lifting your Gladiator and running larger tires can have a significant impact on its performance and handling. Larger tires are heavier, which can reduce your acceleration and fuel economy. They can also affect your braking performance and make your Jeep feel less stable on the road. Re-gearing your axles can help to compensate for the loss of power, but it's an additional expense to consider.

Important Considerations Before Upgrading

Before you rush out and buy the biggest tires you can find, there are a few more things you should keep in mind:

• Backspacing and Offset: As mentioned earlier, wheel backspacing and offset are critical factors in determining whether or not your tires will rub. When you lift your Gladiator, you'll likely need to choose wheels with less backspacing to push the tires further away from the suspension components. However, pushing the tires out too far can cause them to rub on the fenders.
• Gearing: If you're going significantly larger on tire size, re-gearing your axles is highly recommended. Larger tires effectively change your gear ratio, making your engine work harder to turn the wheels. Re-gearing restores your engine's power and improves your fuel economy. It also makes your Jeep more capable off-road.
• Speedometer Calibration: When you change tire sizes, your speedometer will no longer be accurate. You'll need to recalibrate it to ensure that you're driving at the correct speed. There are several aftermarket devices available that can recalibrate your speedometer, or you can have a professional shop do it for you.
• Fender Modifications: Depending on the tire size and lift height you choose, you may need to trim your fenders or install aftermarket fender flares to provide adequate clearance. Trimming is a relatively simple process that involves cutting away the excess plastic from the fender liners. Aftermarket fender flares provide even more clearance and can also give your Gladiator a more aggressive look.
• Load Rating: Ensure that the tires you select have an adequate load rating for your Gladiator. The load rating indicates the maximum weight that a tire can safely carry. Exceeding the load rating can lead to tire failure, which can be dangerous.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best tire size for your 2023 Gladiator Rubicon depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're primarily concerned with maintaining stock performance and fuel economy, sticking with the stock tire size is the way to go. If you want a slightly more aggressive look without making any modifications, you can usually go up a size or two without any problems. And if you're looking to build a serious off-road machine, a lift kit and larger tires are the way to go. Just be sure to do your research and choose a tire size that's compatible with your lift height and wheel offset.

When selecting tires, consider the type of terrain you'll be driving on most often. If you spend a lot of time on the pavement, all-terrain tires are a good choice. They offer a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road traction. If you frequently venture off-road, mud-terrain tires are a better option. They have aggressive tread patterns that provide excellent grip in mud, sand, and rocks. However, they can be noisy on the road and may wear out faster than all-terrain tires.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tire size for your 2023 Gladiator Rubicon can be a fun but also a bit overwhelming. By understanding the stock tire size, exploring your options for upsizing, and considering the important factors like wheel offset, gearing, and fender modifications, you can make an informed decision and outfit your Gladiator with the perfect set of tires for your needs. Happy Jeeping, guys! Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with professionals when needed. Now go out there and conquer those trails (or the mall parking lot, no judgment!).