Ok I just got the GXL wheels/hubs on my base model and I need/want to get some new tires. I really like the GXL wheels but I dont like that they are taller so Im thinking about getting 205/55WR-16 tires to put on them. Will this be enough to lower it to about the same diameter as the 14s w/tires on them?

Also what are your guys thoughts on these tires?
Yokohama Tires

Im kinda broke and dont want to spend anymore than $300 on tires. Any input would be good because Im a tire/wheel n00b.

 

I don't remember what the stocks specs are... but my GXL had 15" wheels and tires.

 

One of the things to consider when purchasing new tires is how hard the side walls are. Soft side walls tend to be a worthless purchase from the euro companys, because america has fairly well maintained roads. So you can usualy go alot harder without losing a whole lot of comfort. Just my $0.o2.

 

Also if you have alot of race application going twards the tires, ask the dealer if they have a over or understear tendiceny. This wont come in to play too often, but its good to know.

 

Ok do anybody know the largest tire width that can fit on the GXL 15s?? Also when does too wide become a problem with handling/drivability.

 

I've been using 225\50\15 on the stock 15X6 91 NA rim. I'm using the Toyo Proxes FZ4, but I've been looking at the Falken Azenis Sport

 

MmMMm falken.. now there is a nice tire.

 

Here ya go: fair dry traction, good wet traction, good looks & UNDER BUDGET.

Kumho 711's 225/50/15 - Same overall height as stock with more grip at less cost.



BTW those are 205/50's on the front.

 

Don't forget, when messing with tire sizes you can end-up with a spedometer that is significantly wrong.
I don't know what size tire will look right and keep the spedometer correct but the Trie Rack's site had a good section on +size wheels and tires. You could certainly call them for an informational chat.

And GXL wheels are 15"

Cory

 

Ive been reading up on tire sizing for the past 30 mins and know alot more than earlier. Im probably gonna run 225/50/15 like you guys since you have done it to yours wit good results.

What tires should I run though?? I have no experience in buying performance tires and the only thing I have to go on is what tirerack says.

 

Ok Ill just go with the Yokohamas, they look good and appear to be high performance tires. Now I get to go drop $400 to get them and get them put on.

 

I use the Falkens 502s myself on my 'vert wheels (also 15", but 6.5" wide) in a 225/50-15 size and find them to be amazing good tires. The Falken Azenis Sport are no longer available in a 15".

The only thing I don't like about them is they are very quiet at the cornering breaking loose point, which if you are looking for the audible feedback of when the rear end is coming loose, you don't get much warning.

Remember using a 225 that a 6 inch rim really is the absolute min wheel size, and you may have better handling sticking with the stock 205 width unless the tire you select has a very stiff sidewall that is not prone to rolling while cornering.

 

thats the only problem I have with running 225s on my car. But it seems that other people are running 225s without any problems...

 

again it is the side wall stiffness. It really varies from tire brand to tire model.

I actually had my tire shop bring me down all the performance 225/50-15 tires they had and checked to see which one had the least amount of side wall flex without them being mounted, before having them set me up with a set.

 

Did you just check them by feel or did you look for anything about the construction?

 

strickly by feel

 

Yo,


I just put the Yokohama ES100's on my Scirocco...like 3 days ago. The release compound isn't completely worn off yet...but they seem to be a pretty damn good tire for the price.

I'm running 195/50-15 and they were $52 each. I had them all shipped for $240. I love Tirerack!

Kevin
1989 GTUs "Yoke's inna hizzouse!"

 

Thanks Rarest. Ill be going up to NTB today, they carry them and hopefully will put them on too.

 

I have heard that the widest you can go is 225 in the front or you can have rub problems. In the back you can go 245. I like my Hankook Ventus tires, yes they are cheap but they dont have that "snow tire" look. All I need is dry traction though, my car never sees rain or snow...........

 

When you get your tires and if you want to check to see if the side wall is rolling under hard corners, put white or yellow chalk on the side and then go take a few hard turns.

 

Thanks for the tip thats a good one. I just ordered them today though so it should be a few days before they arrive. Im counting the minutes!!

 

hahahahahhahaha

obviously you've never been where I live.

fairly well maintained roads................. hahahahaha

 

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