Su2uKa

Which is better for street & some track time: 17s or 18s, & why?

Standard AP2 rims & OEM tires:
F: 41 lbs
R: 47 lbs

17" rims + tires
F: ~37lbs
R: ~40lbs

18" rims + tires
F: ~39lbs
R: ~41lbs

Overall, 18s seem a little heavier, which makes me think they're slightly less suited to the track, but I'm not sure if that makes them better for the street with occasional track time... Can anyone weigh in with some experienced advice?

viets2000

I would say that 17's would give you more grip due to the larger sidewalls. It will give more flex allowing the tread to better stay in contact with the ground. 18's would just give you better response due to the thinner sidewalls and less deflection. But overall grip would be lessened.

ryanfeldman

i dont track or anything, but i went from 17's to 18's and the feeling is much better on 17's. just feels like you have more grip on the road just like the above post. 18's have more of a "loose" feel when driving imo

TheNick

Good tires are more plentiful in 17" sizes and they are cheaper too.

Diameter isn't going to change your grip level - its going to come down to setup and tire width/pressure.

Keith

17" = more comfortable ride on the streets since you have more sidewall to absorb hard bumpy roads. As well, it provides more 'cushion' between potholes and the rim thus reducing the risk of damaging your wheels.

18" = subjectively better looking because of smaller sidewall.

Ultimately, I would go with a lighter, wider and lower offset 17" rim for the street and track. Like Nick said, wider stance and more rubber contact, the better for the track. But more contact patch you have, the more road noise you'll experience (it's pretty marginal and it depends on what kind of tires you choose). The heavier 18" aren't ideal for the track... it's just more rotational mass. Here is a hint, check out F1, Indycar, sports cars, NASCAR, etc... no series really have blingin' low sidewall rims/tires.

Keith