1.0 vs 1.3 Crawler Tires: Which Size for a Micro Crawler?

1.0 and 1.3 inch crawler tires are both common on micro crawlers, but they are not aimed at exactly the same setups. The choice depends on wheel size, desired outside diameter, weight and terrain.

1. 1.0 and 1.3 refer to wheel size

The 1.0 or 1.3 measurement refers to compatible wheel diameter, not the overall tire diameter. Two tires for the same wheel size can have very different outside diameters.

2. 1.0 tires: compact and widely available

1.0 tires are very common on SCX24, TRX4M, AX24 and FCX24 builds, with many tread, diameter and insert options.

3. 1.3 tires: more volume

1.3 tires often allow more overall diameter and volume, which can help ground clearance and obstacle conformity. They also need more room.

4. Weight and inertia

Larger or heavier wheels increase rotating mass and load on steering and drivetrain. Keep wheel weight in proportion to the rest of the build.

5. Inserts and tire behavior

The larger internal volume of a 1.3 tire may require a different insert to avoid excessive collapse. Insert choice can matter as much as rubber compound.

6. Which size should you choose?

Choose 1.0 if you want to stay close to common stock dimensions and keep a wide range of options. Consider 1.3 if your chassis and body have room for more diameter and tire volume.

Compare our RC crawler tires, crawler wheels and beadlocks and our complete crawler tire guide.

Related guides: RC Crawler Tires · Crawler Tire Guide · SCX24 Tire Size Guide · Wheels & Tires