Bigger tires DO help...but there are many other factors to consider. Big tires weigh more. Sometimes a lot more. I'd never do it just for the weight weenie factor. Depending on how big you go, you have to get new wheels to fit them, and possible the front shock- some do not have the clearances for bigger tires/wheels. Alsombig tires can contribute significantly to trail erosion.

As for different makes and models, I've seen that discused ad nauseum on other boards. Which ones wear the best, last the longest, work the best under different conditions.

Tread pattern in an important consideration for your particular location.. a tire that's made for mud may suck on sand, a slickrock tire wont grip wet roots etc. I find that the LBS guys are the best source of information. Some people I know keep several sets around.

No one has mentioned tire pressure. What you run at can make a huge difference in your ride. I've always run fairly high pressure ( 35-40#) and my friends convinced me to let some air out a few weeks ago, for a long mostly downhill ride we did. I couldn' beleive the difference in the ride it made. I was rolling over rocks and roots, instead on boucing off/over them. My suspension seems to be more effective, and the whole ride was improved.

ok,that's enough about tires.

Irulan