The Essential First Modification for Off-Road Vehicles Exploring the Peninsula of Baja California.
"La Cachalote," our 4x4 Ford E-350 passenger van, with Baja Adventures Lead Guide Leopoldo Sanmiguel in Loreto, Baja California Sur.
If someone were to ask us what the first thing we should modify on an off-road vehicle is, we would definitely say that after ensuring everything mechanical is in optimal condition, the first step should be a new set tires. Tires are one of the most critical components of a vehicle, as they are essential for maintaining control and, consequently, our safety.
"La Cachalote" on our way back to Loreto after a Loreto Pristine Coast Overland Expedition.
Imagine getting a flat tire in a rugged area, with no phone signal and no access to a tire shop or mechanic, or simply losing control on the road due to a worn-out tire. A single tire can ruin your trip and cause you to lose days just trying to solve the problem.
"La Cachalote" at a dirt road our way back to Loreto after a Loreto Pristine Coast Overland Expedition by Leopoldo Sanmiguel
For those of us who enjoy off-road vehicles, we know that tires play a fundamental role in our vehicles' performance. With so many new tire brands on the market, it’s easy to be tempted to choose a cheap option, but in the end, we know that performance and durability are not the same.
Leopoldo Sanmiguel realizing that one of the Chinese tires on his Jeep Wrangler was flat on the back road before reaching Laguna Hanson in the Sierra de Juárez in Baja California.
For us, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain model has always been our tire of choice. We have taken them on most of our adventures across the peninsula, from friends and family trips since we started Baja Adventures, where we work professionally as a lead guides organizing expeditions throughout the peninsula. We have used this model on various vehicles: our first car, a Dodge Raider; our first passenger car, a Chevrolet Suburban; our work truck, a Ford F-150; our exploration cars, a Jeep Wrangler and the indestructible Toyota FJ Cruiser; and now in our expedition vehicle, "La Cachalote," a Ford E-350 4x4 passenger van that we use to transport our participants along rural roads and highways. With this model, we have traveled thousands of miles across the peninsula, and they have always proven to be safe, durable, and definitely ideal for our exploration style, which involves covering long distances on dirt roads and highways in Baja California.
For our personal explorations and during guided tours, safety will always be a priority—especially knowing that people are trusting their lives to our hands. Therefore, keeping our vehicles in optimal condition is crucial, and having a set of BFGoodrich tires from Grupo Tersa has allowed us to minimize risks while traveling on unpaved roads and highways, giving us peace of mind to enjoy exploration and moments in nature safely.
Speaking more about these tires, we would describe them as semi-hard but still comfortable to drive. They provide good traction in the desert ecosystems offered by this peninsula: sand, rocks, dirt roads, and occasionally even mud and snow—though the latter is only in very specific areas and seasons. They are also ideal for paved roads that often have potholes and bumps. The tires are quiet with no noise disturbing our journeys and very reliable; we have used them on our Ford E-350 for over 25,000 km without a single flat.
Tire size:
Regarding tire size for "La Cachalote," our Ford E-350, we opted for 285/70 R17. Personally, we prefer large tires with smaller rims, but in this case, La Cachalote has a solid front axel and 16-inch rims won't fit due to the size of the calipers; otherwise, we would have chosen 16-inch rims with a set of 285/75 R16 tires. These sizes are approximately equivalent to a 33-inch tire—the maximum height we consider viable for a vehicle. Heights greater than this seem unnecessary and counterproductive as they affect fuel efficiency and decrease vehicle stability; we simply don’t believe they are necessary.
Additionally, opting for a non-standard tire can pose challenges when searching for replacements at tire shops in the peninsula. While the 285/70R17 is a common tire size, it may still be difficult to find in some remote areas. Always consider this before choosing a larger tire for your vehicle.
Conclusion:
Tires should always be the first thing you consider before exploring with your vehicle. Your safety and performance depend critically on them, and you should never go out with a worn-out tire. Always bring an extra tire with you and ensure it is in good condition.
For us, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain has always taken care of us, which is why it remains our preferred choice. It’s a legendary tire recognized worldwide; it has been in production for many years and has evolved over time to offer various models. Today you can find the new K03 model, which we haven’t tried yet but am sure maintains the warranty and reputation that has supported me and many other off-road enthusiasts for years.
Maintenance:
To prolong the life of your tires and vehicle, it's essential to keep up with preventive maintenance on suspension and steering. Therefore, we recommend performing at least twice a year the following services:
1) Rotation of all five tires.: Regular rotations help ensure that all tires wear out at a similar rate, delaying the need for replacements.
2) Tire balancing:Tires can have slight weight imbalances due to manufacturing variations. Balancing ensures even weight distribution around the tire, reducing vibrations.
3) Wheel alignment: Proper alignment ensures that your vehicle tracks straight and handles well, making it easier to steer and control.
4) Preventive safety inspection: Regular checks help identify any wear or issues that could compromise safety, such as poor handling or instability.
TERSA & BFGoodrich Shops in the peninsula of Baja California:
You can perform these services at any Tersa shop throughout the peninsula. Here you can see all the workshops and sales points they have in Baja California and Baja California Sur from north to south:
Tijuana, Baja California:
Blvd. Cuauhtémoc: Link
Blvd. Salinas: Link
Zona Rio: Link
Blvd. Insurgentes: Link
Otay: Link
La Mesa: Link
Blvd. Benítez: Link
Mexicali, Baja California:
Blvd. Lopez: Link
Blvd. Juaréz: Link
Blvd. Cárdenas: Link
Calz. Gómez: Link
Blvd. J. Siera: Link
Tecate, Baja California:
Calle Cuchuma: Link
Rosarito, Baja California:
Blvd. Juárez: Link
Ensenada, Baja California:
Centro Off-Road: Link
Calle Nueve: Link
Carr. Transpeninsular: Link
Calz. Cortez: Link
San Quintín, Baja California:
Carr. Transpeninsular: Link
Santa Rosalía, Baja California Sur:
Carr. Transpeninsular: Link
Loreto, Baja California Sur:
Blvd. Ugarte: Link
Ciudad Constitución, Baja California Sur:
Carr. Transpeninsular: Link
La Paz, Baja California Sur:
Blvd. Forjadores: Link
Blvd. Abasolo: Link
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur:
Carr. Transpeninsular: Link
Thank you very much, Grupo Tersa, for supporting our expeditions for over four years. Together, we will continue exploring and caring for this peninsula!
At Baja Adventures, we specialize in customizing itineraries for adventurers eager to explore stunning landscapes and ecosystems. Our journeys seamlessly blend land and sea experiences.
During our land adventures, participants will overland, hike, and learn from locals and our bilingual guides about diverse ecosystems and historical architecture. You'll have the opportunity to visit and overnight in beautiful local ranches while savoring authentic gastronomy.
Departing from Loreto, we provide 4x4 transportation, expert guides, and comprehensive logistics, ensuring your safety with satellite phones and emergency kits.
With our updated safety courses for guides and our dedicated team managing all logistics, you can focus on enjoying the adventure of a lifetime!