Hey there, Bronco enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2021 Bronco Sasquatch package and, more specifically, the tire size that makes this off-road beast so formidable. If you're curious about what sets the Sasquatch apart and how those beefy tires contribute to its legendary status, you're in the right place. We'll cover everything from the standard tire specs to why they matter for off-roading, and even touch on what you might want to consider if you're thinking about upgrades. So buckle up, and let’s get started!

What Makes the Sasquatch Package Special?

Before we zoom in on the tires, it’s crucial to understand the whole package. The Sasquatch package isn't just about big tires; it’s a comprehensive upgrade designed to transform your Bronco into an off-road monster. Ford engineered this package for those who crave adventure and aren't afraid to tackle the toughest trails. So, what exactly do you get?

The Sasquatch package includes several key enhancements:

• 35-inch Goodyear Territory MT Tires: These are the stars of the show, providing superior grip and ground clearance.
• 17-inch Beadlock-Capable Wheels: These wheels allow you to air down your tires for better traction in challenging terrains without the risk of de-beading.
• High-Clearance Suspension: The upgraded suspension system lifts the Bronco, providing additional clearance to navigate over obstacles.
• Position-Sensitive Bilstein Shocks: These shocks adjust to the terrain, offering a comfortable ride on and off the road.
• Electronic-Locking Front and Rear Axles: These axles ensure that power is evenly distributed to all wheels, maximizing traction in slippery conditions.
• 4.7 Final Drive Ratio: This lower gear ratio provides more torque at lower speeds, essential for rock crawling and steep inclines.
• High-Clearance Fender Flares: These flares accommodate the larger tires and protect the body from debris.

All these components work together to make the Bronco Sasquatch a highly capable off-road vehicle right from the factory. The 35-inch tires are a significant part of this equation, contributing to improved ground clearance, approach, departure, and breakover angles. These angles determine the Bronco's ability to navigate obstacles without scraping the bumpers or undercarriage. For example, the increased ground clearance allows you to drive over larger rocks and logs, while better approach and departure angles let you climb steep hills and descend without damaging the front or rear of your vehicle.

The Significance of 35-Inch Tires

Now, let's zoom in on those impressive 35-inch tires. Why are they such a big deal? Well, several factors make them a game-changer for off-road performance. The most obvious benefit is the increased ground clearance. With 35-inch tires, the Bronco Sasquatch boasts a ground clearance of around 11.6 inches, which is significantly higher than the base model. This extra clearance means you can clear larger obstacles without getting hung up.

Beyond ground clearance, the larger tires also improve the Bronco's approach, departure, and breakover angles. The approach angle is the maximum angle a vehicle can approach an obstacle without the front bumper hitting it. The departure angle is the maximum angle a vehicle can depart an obstacle without the rear bumper dragging. The breakover angle is the angle between the front and rear tires and the lowest point of the vehicle's undercarriage; a higher angle means less chance of getting stuck on a high-centered obstacle. With the Sasquatch package, the Bronco’s approach angle is approximately 43.2 degrees, the departure angle is 37.0 degrees, and the breakover angle is 29.0 degrees. These improved angles make a massive difference when navigating challenging terrain.

The larger tire size also provides a larger contact patch, which means more rubber on the ground. This increased contact area translates to better traction, especially on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, and mud. The Goodyear Territory MT tires are specifically designed for off-road use, featuring an aggressive tread pattern that bites into the terrain for maximum grip. Additionally, the taller sidewalls of the 35-inch tires allow for better absorption of bumps and vibrations, contributing to a smoother and more controlled ride on rough trails.

Tire Specifications: What You Need to Know

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty details of the 2021 Bronco Sasquatch tire size. The standard tire size for the Sasquatch package is LT315/70R17. Here's a breakdown of what each part of that designation means:

• LT: Stands for Light Truck, indicating that these tires are designed for use on trucks and SUVs, with a higher load-carrying capacity.
• 315: Represents the section width of the tire in millimeters. In this case, the tire is 315 millimeters wide.
• 70: Is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its section width. Here, the sidewall height is 70% of 315 mm.
• R: Indicates that the tire has a radial construction, which is the most common type of tire construction.
• 17: Is the diameter of the wheel in inches. The Sasquatch package comes with 17-inch wheels.

So, when you see LT315/70R17, you know you're dealing with a robust, off-road-ready tire designed for the 2021 Bronco Sasquatch. These tires are engineered to handle the rigors of off-road driving, providing the traction, durability, and performance needed to conquer challenging terrains. They also contribute to the vehicle's overall stance and appearance, giving it that aggressive, ready-for-anything look.

Considerations for Tire Upgrades

While the stock 35-inch tires on the Sasquatch are incredibly capable, some owners may consider upgrading to even larger or more specialized tires. If you're thinking about going bigger, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, clearance is a significant factor. While the Sasquatch package includes high-clearance fender flares, fitting even larger tires may require additional modifications, such as a lift kit or trimming the fenders. Without these modifications, the tires could rub against the body, especially when the suspension is fully compressed during off-road use. This can damage the tires and the vehicle.

Secondly, gear ratio is another important consideration. The Sasquatch comes with a 4.7 final drive ratio, which is optimized for the 35-inch tires. If you install larger tires, you may need to re-gear to maintain optimal performance. Larger tires effectively change the overall gear ratio, which can reduce acceleration and fuel efficiency. Re-gearing involves replacing the gears in the axles with a lower ratio, which compensates for the larger tires and restores the vehicle's performance.

Thirdly, weight is a crucial factor. Larger tires are typically heavier than smaller tires, which can impact the vehicle's handling, braking, and fuel economy. Heavier tires also put more stress on the suspension components, potentially leading to premature wear and tear. It’s essential to choose tires that are appropriate for the vehicle's capabilities and to ensure that the suspension is properly set up to handle the additional weight.

Finally, consider the type of terrain you'll be driving on. While larger tires can provide additional ground clearance and traction in certain situations, they may not be ideal for all types of terrain. For example, wider tires can be beneficial in sand, but they may not perform as well in mud or snow. Choose tires that are suited to the specific conditions you expect to encounter.

Maintaining Your Sasquatch Tires

To ensure your Bronco Sasquatch performs optimally and your tires last as long as possible, proper maintenance is key. Here are some essential tips:

• Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for tire life, fuel efficiency, and handling. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.
• Rotate Your Tires: Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles helps ensure even wear. Different tires on a vehicle wear differently depending on their position, so rotating them helps to even out the wear patterns.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect your tires for cuts, bulges, and other signs of damage. Off-road driving can be tough on tires, so it’s essential to catch any issues early.
• Balance Your Tires: Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations and uneven wear. If you notice vibrations while driving, have your tires balanced.
• Align Your Wheels: Proper wheel alignment is essential for tire life and handling. If you notice uneven wear or your vehicle pulling to one side, have your wheels aligned.

By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your Sasquatch tires and ensure your Bronco continues to perform at its best. Remember, well-maintained tires are not only safer but also more cost-effective in the long run.

Conclusion

The 2021 Bronco Sasquatch is a true off-road icon, and its 35-inch tires are a significant part of what makes it so capable. These tires provide increased ground clearance, improved approach, departure, and breakover angles, and enhanced traction, allowing you to tackle even the most challenging trails with confidence. Whether you stick with the stock tires or consider upgrading, understanding the tire specifications and maintenance requirements is essential for maximizing your Bronco's performance and longevity. So, get out there, explore the great outdoors, and enjoy the ride! Just remember to keep those tires properly inflated and maintained for the best possible experience. Happy trails!