2021 FORD F-150 RAPTOR

More wheel travel, bigger shocks, 37-inch tires, but still no V-8

- Jason Gonderman

Ford rocked the pickup world in 2009 when it introduced the go-fast, desert-oriented F-150 Raptor. The truck’s big tires, big shocks, bulging body, and bad-boy attitude made the truck an instant hit. And it’s only gotten more popular and more capable from there. Now, for the ’21 model year and in its third generation, Ford has pulled back the camouflage on its latest Raptor creation. Come along as we take an in-depth look at the most unique Raptor Ford has produced to date.

Yes, it has (Optional) 37-inch Tires

Since day zero, Raptor owners have been asking for 37-inch tires. Now, for the first time, buyers will be able to choose between 35- or 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires. Selecting the 37-inch tires gets buyers a specific beadlock-capable wheel, custom “Raptor 37” bedside graphics, and a unique interior that includes Recaro bucket seats.

Selecting 37-inch tires comes with a couple of trade-offs. The 37s bring with them more sidewall and improved ground clearance, from 12 inches to 13.1 inches. On the downside, wheel travel is reduced from 14 inches front and 15 rear to 13 front and 14.1 rear. One of the biggest complaints from second-generation Raptor owners who have gone to a 37-inch tire is that a spare won’t fit underthe bed. Ford has fixed this for the ’21 model. Raptors with 37-inch tires come with a unique frame with a trailer hitch tailored to fit the larger rolling stock.

No, it Doesn’t Have a V-8 … Yet