I've heard that the rx7 factory wheels are very light - I come from mostly miatas where wheel weights are aboslutely crucial and every oz. is felt. How badly would say a 17lb 17" wheel affect performance?

What about offsets - what is the acceptable range before rubbing, bearing wear, or just in general badly messed up geomety comes into effect?

 

The correct offset depends on what car you have, what car do you have?

17lbs for a 17" wheel isn't bad, depending on the width. It's not great for a 17x7, but for something 17x8 or wider it's not too bad at all. Enkei RPF1's are nice and light and not too expensive.

While I don't think RX-7's are as sensitive as Miatas, it still makes a difference.

 

im sorry, I should have specified, I am interested in the nuances of the FD rx7. Miatas and other cars I can talk about, rx7s I cannot!

 

Miatas have no power/torque so rotating mass is important especially on wheels to maintain top performance. With an FD you can made 300rwhp pretty easily so wheel weight isn't as crucial.

With racing in mind talking about the FD running stock fenders (rolled front lips) with coilovers (2.5" springs)...... most people run 18x10 +50mm rims (front/rear) with 285/30/18's. You need to run this size tire because it is only 24.6" tall. Any taller will create interference up front in that width. Also this much tire on the street is complete overkill because you could never use it at its full potential. The ride will also be complete crap since this tire has very little sidewall.

CCW 3 piece rims for example in this size weigh about 20lbs. They retail for about $2200 a set without tires. That is about the best bang/buck in that size

For the street I wouldn't worry about wheel weight (within reason). 18x9 front and 18x10 rears (255/35/18 front and 275/35/18 rears) are a nice setup and the tires aren't too much $$$.

Talk to Rishie about FD wheels on this section of the forum. He is a sponsor.