finding the ultimate grip set-up

[verbalink]

so i am in search of the most practical and reasonable way to run a decently light wheel and tire combo that will provide a more responsive ride, as well as, a grippier set-up. for those of us with limited fundage, we have to make due with what is readily available and decently affordable.

i did some searching and poking around and it seems that the widest wheel run without fender modifications seems to be the 17x9 +45 RPF1's. i mention this because RPF1's provide one of the lightest wheels at the lowest cost. i have access to a fender roller, so rolling and flaring is definitely an option. i know the stock rx8 wheels are a good inch wider and approximately 4 pounds lighter. i know that subydude came out with some pretty incredible fitments back when i had my sti.

in any case, given these conditions, on stock suspension, what is the widest wheel and tire combination that will fit?

some pics for clicks!

 

[CnoTataymo]

I'd go 18x9 +45 with 245/40 tires.

 

[mr_mazda329]

Sweet. I would go with the RPF1's for lightness and grab up some nice tires. It all depends what your budget is. Cheap good tires like Falken azenis, Kumho XS or Direzza Star specs will get you in the right direction. And run a 245's too. then after that, get a nice alignment with custom specs.

 

[CnoTataymo]

Since you still are running stock suspension, you can probably even go 275/35's for more grip. But might need to run a 5mm space upfront. And you'll want your rears rolled as much as you can do them. It'll look so aggressive.

 

[H3br3w_Ham3r]

People seem to think the 9 inch rim is what provides a lot of grip but then throw 235 or 245 tires on it. Get an 8 inch rim and throw a 265 tire on it. Save some green and weight.

 

[Nliiitend1]

Just remember that wider does not always necessarily equate to more grip.

Going too wide also does funny things to the steering geometry...

 

[CnoTataymo]

He asked for widest wheel, so that's what I just put. Shoot, I know a lot of track/auto'x guys do like 18x8 with 255 or 265 tires. It looks pretty crazy.

 

[turbo23]

I run a 255 size tire mounted to FD wheels on my car for autox. I feel the car has grip, but does not have the playful feel I like in the handling of a car. I quote I read one time said, a good car should not demand, but me playful.

 

[drledford93]

For the street, I run 17x7 with 235 tires. If you really want to save some weight, go with 17s. No rubbing issues unless you have much larger brake/caliper combo.

 

[H3br3w_Ham3r]

For the street, I run 17x7 with 235 tires. If you really want to save some weight, go with 17s. No rubbing issues unless you have much larger brake/caliper combo.

I agree. I went to a 17x8 for auto-x with a 225/45 tire since Hoosier tires run wider than most they are more like 245's. I want to try a 255 of the same tire this year.