I am looking to get some bigger tires for my 2015 Trail EPS. My main reason for wanting to replace the stock tires is to gain some valuable ground clearance. Therefore, I am looking at something in a 28". I ride 90% trails and 10% gravel roads/asphalt. The trails I ride are a mix of mud, hard pack and creek beds. (typical West Virginia terrain)

I think I have narrowed my tire choices down to Rocktanes or Blackwaters. I want a tire that will wear good on the hard stuff (not ride rough) but still do ok in the mud.

My questions are:

1. 12" or 14" wheels. I am leaning toward 14" in an effort to reduce the risk of breaking a wheel by wedging a rock between the wheel and caliper. Does anyone make a 14" steel wheel???

2. 7" 4+3 wheel or 8" 5+3 wheel? (assuming I go 14" dia.) I know this will negate my 50" width but I feel it would be a fair trade for the slight gain in stability. plus, I can reinstall the stock wheels/tires if I need to meet a 50" restriction.

3. Blackwaters or Rocktanes? (Rocktanes are about $75 cheaper) I am open to tire suggestions as long as they meet my needs and don’t cost $200 each.

4. I was wanting to go with a 10" tire width on all 4 corners, does any one see any issues with this?

Thoughts?