I just bought a 1997 MAX for a very low price and very practical reason. We live on a hill, have a 1500 ft up and down drive made of PUG (packed gravel and clay). We have been using the car and truck to take the trash to the road, check mail and pick up the papers. Too much short trip driving is not good for them. After some "Well, it is Christmas and I only got three expensive presents and need one more" whining, I convinced the wife that we needed an ATV. Saw the MAX and decided that it would be the practical solution (did not matter that is was unique, easy to work on, just plain fun to drive, and in case the Smoky Mountains flooded, we could get out). Picked it up last night, drove it around like a drunk sailor (I am a retired sailor so I know what one looks like) and now trying to learn more about what I got myself into. OK, enough of the back story.
My First Question (of many to come later) is: It has 6 brand new tires (little nubs have not even worn off) - 21" Carlisle AT101. I read that these give a soft ride, but they are fragile. I am afraid that my driveway gravel will wear the out too soon. We have 27 acres of woods to drive it through, but no water so don't plan to do any sailing anytime soon. Should I change tires or just use these up and go to something different?