The Mud Bugs are a far more aggressive tire than the Mudlites, so it all depends on your riding style. Ifyou only want to go a step up from stockers, then Mudlites are a good choice. If you are looking for something that can handle the swamps and bogs, the Bugs, Gators, Zillas, Bi/Tri claws etc are the way to go. The XTR's are a far choice than regular Lite's since they combine trailability with decent mud performance. I have the Bugs on my bike and find them to be one of the best trail/mud/snow tires I have ever rode on. Check out our site.. this question has been asked a hundred times ( and there is never a true right or wrong answer.. just good opinions ! )