How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Golf Cart (Street vs. Off-Road)
Tires might seem like a small detail, but when it comes to performance, comfort, and curb appeal, they play a huge role in how your golf cart rides and looks. At ARCH EV, every cart is built lifted and comes with your choice of either street tires or off-road tires. But how do you know which option is best for your lifestyle?
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and ideal use cases for each tire type—so you can choose the setup that keeps your ride smooth, stylish, and ready for anything.
Street Tires: Smooth, Silent, and Stylish
Street tires are the right choice if you plan to use your golf cart in areas with paved surfaces like neighborhoods, resorts, or community golf paths. Designed with a flat, low-profile tread, these tires prioritize smoothness and stability.
Benefits of Street Tires:
- Smoother Ride on asphalt and concrete
- Quieter Operation—no hum or vibration from aggressive tread
- Less Wear on paved terrain
- Stylish Look that pairs well with chrome or black wheels
If you're cruising through a neighborhood or operating a cart in a resort, street tires are the default choice. They also tend to be easier to clean and keep looking polished.
Off-Road Tires: Grip, Clearance, and Confidence
If you’re headed beyond the pavement—gravel paths, beach trails, farms, or large event properties—then off-road tires are the way to go. These tires feature deeper tread and wider sidewalls, allowing your ARCH EV to handle more demanding terrain.
Benefits of Off-Road Tires:
- Enhanced Traction on dirt, sand, gravel, or grass
- Rugged Look that pairs with lifted stance for aggressive style
- More Versatility for mixed terrain or rough surfaces
- Confidence in all weather and trail conditions
ARCH EV’s A6 6-passenger golf cart with off-road tires is a favorite for resorts with uneven terrain or shuttle needs. It’s also ideal for rural properties and commercial venues.
Lifted Carts + Tires = Ultimate Versatility
All ARCH EV carts are designed on a lifted chassis, which means you get extra ground clearance by default—perfect for either tire type. That lifted design is what allows for:
- More wheel and tire size options (typically 12–14")
- Higher ride stance for better visibility
- Better performance over grass, gravel, and small obstacles
This means you’re not limited. If you buy a cart with street tires today and want to switch later, it’s a simple change that doesn’t require suspension mods.
Which Tire Is Best for Your Terrain?
| Terrain | Best Tire Type | Recommended ARCH Model |
|---|---|---|
| Paved streets & neighborhoods | Street tires | ARCH EV A4 |
| Golf courses or paved trails | Street tires | ARCH EV A4-4F |
| Beach paths or sandy terrain | Off-road tires | ARCH EV A6 |
| Farms, trails, or campsites | Off-road tires | ARCH EV A2 |
Swapping Tires? Here’s What to Know
Many ARCH EV customers like to swap tires seasonally or depending on the environment. If you plan to switch between street and off-road sets, here are a few tips:
- Store tires in a cool, dry space when not in use
- Check air pressure regularly—off-road tires tend to lose air faster
- Use matching wheels for the best visual and performance fit
- Consult us if you want a second set included at purchase—we’ll make it easy
Switching between tire types is one of the easiest ways to get more out of your cart without replacing the whole vehicle.
FAQs: Golf Cart Tires
Q: Can I drive off-road with street tires?
A: Yes, but it’s not recommended for regular use. You’ll notice slippage and reduced ride comfort on loose or uneven ground.
Q: Will off-road tires wear faster on pavement?
A: Yes. Off-road tread isn’t optimized for hard surfaces and may degrade more quickly with daily street use.
Q: Are all ARCH EV carts compatible with either tire type?
A: Yes! Every ARCH EV golf cart is lifted and compatible with both off-road and street tires.
Final Thoughts: Choose Tires That Match Your Life
If your cart lives in a paved neighborhood or gated resort, street tires will give you the smoothest ride. But if you’re exploring trails, crossing uneven terrain, or simply want a rugged look, off-road tires are the way to go.
With ARCH EV, you don’t have to compromise. You choose the tire style, the wheel finish (chrome or black), and we’ll build your cart to match—lifted, powered by lithium, and ready for wherever your next ride takes you.
Explore all ARCH EV models and get rolling with a ride designed for your lifestyle.
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Still not sure which tire is right? Contact our team anytime—we’ll help you build the perfect setup.