Gooday Monty, I've run 235x85x16 tyres on both my current GU and on my old Troopy, and done plenty of desert and tough tracks. They'll go anywhere you want, and you get the added benefits.
1. They are lighter than most larger wheel/tyre combinations to the extent that I can take 6 wheels for about the same weight or less than 5 of my mates oversize ones.
2. They are cheaper than bigger tyres.
3. They are a favourite size on work vehicles in the outback [not to mention military vehicles] and therefore are easily obtainable.
Unless you are prepared to go to a very much bigger tyre it is my opinion you'll get none of the flotation benefits in practice that are often claimed by people making assumptions based on the tyres width. Adjust your tyre pressures and you'll match any tyre, within reason, on sand. The only advantage a wider tyre has is on sealed roads where the lower aspect ratio leads to less squirming in fast cornering, and also more rubber contact for perhaps better braking.
I've usually run BFG ATs which, with their fairly sharp shoulder give good turn in on dirt corners. They also have stronger sidewall s than many of their competitors, and so you have less trouble with punctures when touring. However, tyre brands are controversial as you know. Having said that, I have seen good early reviews of the new Cooper Maxx.
Although oversize ones are fashionable, there is no practical improvement in offroad performance, unless you are prepared to go to a much larger diameter and put up with the gearing, cost, weight , steering geometry and other disadvantages so created,
For some further reading on the subject Monty, have a look at this;
http://www.expeditionswest.com/resea...tion_rev1.html
Cheers,
Graeme.
