Hey truck enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the world of 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 stock tires. If you're rolling in a beastly AT4, you know it's built for adventure. The right tires are crucial, whether you're tackling rocky trails, cruising on the highway, or just showing off that rugged look. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the factory tires on your 2021 Sierra AT4. We will also explore some great options if you're looking to upgrade. So, grab a seat, get comfortable, and let's get rolling! The tires on your truck are the only contact point between your vehicle and the road. Therefore, it's very important to keep them in good shape.

Stock Tire Specs and What They Mean

The 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 typically comes equipped with Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires as the stock option. These are often sized at LT275/65R18. So, what does all that gibberish mean? Let's decode it: LT stands for Light Truck, indicating these tires are designed for trucks and SUVs, built to handle heavier loads and tougher conditions than passenger car tires. 275 is the section width of the tire in millimeters – essentially, how wide the tire is. 65 is the aspect ratio, the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall height is 65% of 275mm. R signifies that it's a radial tire, the standard construction method for modern tires. 18 is the wheel diameter in inches, meaning these tires fit 18-inch wheels. Understanding these numbers is important when replacing or upgrading your tires. It will ensure you get a proper fit that is compatible with your truck. The stock Duratracs are known for their blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. They offer decent grip in various conditions, from pavement to light off-roading. However, like all tires, they have their pros and cons. They are great for all-around performance, but serious off-roaders may want something more aggressive. Therefore, consider your driving needs and the kind of terrain you usually encounter. The load range of a tire is another important specification. This determines the maximum weight the tire can support at its maximum inflation pressure. AT4 models come with tires designed to handle the truck's weight and the extra demands of off-road driving. Make sure any replacement tire has a load rating at least as high as the original. Otherwise, you could compromise safety and performance. So, when searching for replacement tires, pay close attention to all the specifications.

Evaluating Stock Tire Performance

When it comes to the 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 stock tires, let's take a closer look at what they bring to the table. The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires, as we mentioned earlier, are the usual suspects. They're designed to be a jack-of-all-trades, so they're pretty good at a lot of things. On the road, they offer a reasonably comfortable ride and handle well in various conditions. You won't feel like you're driving on a tank, which is a big plus for daily driving. They also provide decent grip in wet and dry conditions, making them a safe choice for everyday use. Off-road, these tires show their true colors. They have an aggressive tread pattern that helps them bite into dirt, gravel, and light mud. The sidewall design also adds some protection against punctures. Although, they aren’t the most extreme off-road tires, but they're more than capable for most moderate trails and off-road adventures. Duratracs also have a good reputation for durability. They can withstand some abuse, which is important if you're hitting the trails regularly. The tires are designed to handle the rigors of off-road driving. This should give you peace of mind knowing that your tires can handle what you throw at them. However, no tire is perfect. The Duratracs can be a bit noisy on the highway. This is a common trade-off for their off-road capability. The aggressive tread design produces some road noise. The fuel economy might also be slightly lower than with more road-focused tires. The ride quality might be a bit stiffer compared to a purely road-oriented tire. Overall, the stock tires on your 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 provide a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. These tires are a solid choice if you're looking for a versatile tire that can handle both daily driving and occasional off-road adventures. But, if you're a serious off-roader, you might consider other options.

Upgrading Your Tires: Options and Considerations

So, you're thinking about upgrading the tires on your 2021 GMC Sierra AT4? Awesome! Whether you're looking for more aggressive off-road performance, a smoother ride, or a different look, there are plenty of options out there. Before you start shopping, consider your driving needs. Are you mainly on the road, or do you spend most of your time on trails? Do you want a tire that's good in all conditions, or do you want to specialize? Think about the type of terrain you often encounter. If you're constantly tackling mud and rocks, you'll need a more aggressive tire than if you're just driving on gravel roads. Then consider tire size. While you can stick with the stock size, you might want to go bigger for a more aggressive look and better off-road performance. However, be careful not to go too big, as this can cause rubbing and affect your truck's handling and fuel economy. Make sure the tires fit properly and won't rub against the wheel wells or suspension components. Larger tires can also affect your truck's speedometer and odometer, so keep that in mind. Once you know your needs and have an idea of the size you want, you can start looking at different tire types. All-terrain tires offer a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. They're a popular choice for AT4 owners. Mud-terrain tires are designed for serious off-road use, with aggressive tread patterns for maximum grip in mud and challenging terrain. They're usually noisier on the road than other types of tires. Hybrid tires blend the best of both worlds, with a tread design that provides good off-road performance while still offering a decent ride on the road. Road tires are designed for optimal on-road performance, with a focus on comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency. They're a good choice if you spend most of your time on the highway. Some popular brands to consider are: BFGoodrich, Toyo, Nitto, and Falken. Check out online reviews and forums to see what other AT4 owners are saying about different tires. Also, consider the load range of the tires. This is an important factor to consider for safety and performance. Choose tires with a load rating that is at least as high as your stock tires. If you plan to do heavy towing or hauling, you may need tires with a higher load rating.

Maintaining Your Tires for Optimal Performance

Once you've got your 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 stock tires (or new ones) mounted, it’s important to keep them in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance will not only extend their lifespan but also ensure your truck performs at its best. One of the most important things to do is regularly check your tire pressure. Proper tire pressure affects your truck's handling, fuel economy, and tire wear. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in all four tires. Make sure to check the pressure when the tires are cold. That is, when the truck hasn't been driven for at least a few hours. The recommended tire pressure is usually listed on a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or in your owner's manual. Be sure to check it regularly. Make sure you don't overinflate your tires, as this can reduce their contact with the road, leading to poor handling and uneven wear. Underinflating your tires can also cause problems, such as reduced fuel economy and increased risk of tire failure. Another crucial maintenance task is regular tire rotation. Rotating your tires helps ensure they wear evenly. If you don't rotate your tires, they'll wear unevenly. This can lead to reduced performance and the need for earlier replacement. Generally, you should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific rotation pattern recommended for your truck. In addition to checking tire pressure and rotating your tires, regularly inspect your tires for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cuts, cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns. If you notice any damage, have the tires inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Also, check the tread depth regularly. You can use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to check the tread depth. If the tread depth is too low, the tires will lose their grip, especially in wet conditions. The penny test involves inserting a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread depth is too low, and it's time to replace the tires. By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your tires in great shape and ensure your 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 performs at its best, whether you're cruising on the highway or hitting the trails.

Conclusion: Keeping Your AT4 Rolling

So, there you have it, a comprehensive guide to the 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 stock tires and beyond. We've covered the basics of the stock tires, how to evaluate their performance, and what options you have if you decide to upgrade. Remember, the right tires are key to getting the most out of your AT4, whether you're a weekend warrior or a daily driver. By understanding your needs and considering the factors we've discussed, you can make an informed decision and choose the tires that are best for you. Always prioritize safety and performance when selecting and maintaining your tires. Regular maintenance, including checking tire pressure and rotating tires, is essential for maximizing tire life and ensuring your truck handles well. With the right tires and proper care, your 2021 GMC Sierra AT4 will be ready to tackle any adventure you throw its way. Now go out there and enjoy the ride!