Selecting the correct tire size for your 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn is essential for balancing capability, comfort, and safety. This specific trim sits in the middle of the Ram lineup, offering a blend of work-ready durability and refined daily driving dynamics. Understanding the OEM specifications and aftermarket options ensures your pickup performs as intended, whether you are navigating urban streets or tackling light off-road trails.
Factory Specifications and Standard Equipment
When discussing the 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn tire size, it is important to look at what comes from the factory. Ram equips this trim level with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels shod in P245/70R17 all-season tires. This specific size provides a sidewall height of approximately 6.7 inches, resulting in an overall diameter close to 29.7 inches. This combination was chosen by engineers to provide a stable ride height, adequate ground clearance for the segment, and efficient fuel economy for highway commuters.
Performance and Handling Attributes
The 245-section width of the stock rubber delivers a solid contact patch for dry pavement traction and cornering stability. The 70-series aspect ratio, which denotes the sidewall height as a percentage of the width, contributes to the plush ride quality the Ram 1500 is known for. This taller sidewall absorbs road imperfections effectively, which is a significant advantage for a truck frequently used for hauling passengers or light cargo in suburban environments.
Aftermarket Options and Customization
Many owners of the 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn choose to move away from the factory dimensions to suit personal taste or specific needs. Popular upgrade paths include increasing wheel diameter to 18 or 20 inches for a more aggressive stance or switching to all-terrain tires for enhanced off-road grip. When modifying the tire size, maintaining the overall diameter within 3% of the original is critical to avoid affecting the vehicle's speedometer calibration and traction control systems.
Larger diameter tires can improve visibility over obstacles but may require a lift kit.
All-season tires remain the best compromise for year-round use in varied climates.
Dedicated winter tires should be considered for regions with heavy snowfall and ice.
Load-rated tires are necessary for those who frequently tow trailers or carry heavy payloads.
Load Ratings and Safety Considerations
Safety and compliance should always dictate your tire selection. The 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn tires come with a specific load index and speed rating molded into the sidewall, usually indicating a capacity suitable for the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Exceeding these ratings compromises handling, increases tire wear, and raises the risk of blowouts, especially when the bed is fully loaded or the vehicle is towing.
Tread Patterns and Seasonal Adaptation
The tread design dramatically influences how your Ram performs in different conditions. All-season tires feature symmetrical patterns that provide predictable handling in rain and light snow. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you might look for tires featuring the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, which certifies superior performance in severe snow conditions. Conversely, drivers in arid climates might prioritize high-speed stability and heat resistance to prevent overheating during long highway drives.
Maintaining Your Tires
Regardless of the 2020 ram 1500 big horn tire size you choose, proper maintenance is the most significant factor in longevity and safety. Checking tire pressure at least once a month is vital, as temperature fluctuations can cause air to escape. Furthermore, rotating the tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles ensures even wear across all four corners, maximizing the miles you get from your investment and preserving the handling characteristics Ram engineered into the truck.
