Handling difference between 18" and 17" setups?
Handling difference between 18" and 17" setups? From a handling-only standpoint, primarily for road course, but also some autocross, and assuming that the brands and overall diameter of the wheel and tire combination stays the same, how noticeable is the difference between a 17" and 18" setup? Is there noticeable handling improvement? Is it worth the extra money?
Or, to put it a different way, would you choose BFG KD (not W or WS) 275 40 ZR17s on all four corners, or, for about the same money, settle for a somewhat lesser tire, say a Kumho or other popular sticky but less expensive brand, on an 18" setup?
Decision time is at hand! I'd love to hear some experienced opinions.
Thanks
BobP
Or, to put it a different way, would you choose BFG KD (not W or WS) 275 40 ZR17s on all four corners, or, for about the same money, settle for a somewhat lesser tire, say a Kumho or other popular sticky but less expensive brand, on an 18" setup?
Decision time is at hand! I'd love to hear some experienced opinions.
Thanks
BobP
Re: Handling difference between 18" and 17" setups? I went from a 17 inch rim to a 18 and noticed quite a difference. But the tires I used may have been better too. To answer your question, I'd go with the cheaper tire on the 18 inch rim, if there is such a thing.
Re: Handling difference between 18" and 17" setups? I went from Yokohama AVS Intermediates in 275/40s and 315/35s on 17x9.5 and 17x11 to Forgeline 18x9.5 and 18x11 with 265/35 and 295/35 Yokohama AVS Sports and did not notice much of a change.
I would run the wheel that is the strongest and weighs the least combined with the best tire you can afford for best handling. I think tire quality makes the biggest improvement and unsprung weight second.
I would run the wheel that is the strongest and weighs the least combined with the best tire you can afford for best handling. I think tire quality makes the biggest improvement and unsprung weight second.
