RX-8 wheels...what tires?

[mysleeper6]

Hey everybody. I just bought ForceFed's RX-8 wheels with the intention of making them my MS6's summer wheels (yeah, I know, timing is everything) and I'm curious what everyone who also has RX-8 wheels is using for tires. I have 225/40R18 on my OEM wheels which are going to get painted graphite come spring. I have talked to some people who feel that 225 is too much of a stretch for an 8" wheel, but I read somewhere that the stock tire for an RX-8 is 225/45R18. Is this right? I'm not opposed to going 235/40 or 235/45 but I don't know if I would have rubbing issues (I'm lowered on RPM Street Springs, and don't really want to roll the fenders if I can avoid it). What does everyone think?

Also, does anyone have any experience with General Exclaim UHP tires? 4th rated summer tire on tirerack and only $90 each in 225/40R18 (92 load rating). 235/45 only has 91 load rating, which is one lower than our stockers, right?

 

[ForceFed]

225 on an 8'' wide rim is perect for the rim size...but I dont know whats best for your car in terms of optimal sizing.

But 225 is great on an 8.

 

[MrFatbooty]

When I messed with tire size comparisons it looks like 235/40-18 is a close match for the stock 215/45-18 size with a wider footprint. Specs for those tires list a measuring rim width of 8" which would be perfect for the RX-8 wheels. No idea on rubbing though, but I'm thinking about going 235/40 for my summer fitment.

 

[mysleeper6]

Thank you, Mr. Fatbooty!

I may just have to bite the bullet and pay to have my all-season 225/40 tires moved from my OEM wheels to the RX-8's to see how much clearance I have.

And ForceFed, I am itching to get these on the car. They look great!

 

[MrFatbooty]

Also as far as General UHP tires I'm not sure what exactly your preferences are in terms of traction, noise, tread life, etc. I came from a Miata with a stiff suspension and Hankook Z212 tires on it so the MS6 with Dunlop SP5000s that came on it when I bought it feels smooth as glass in comparison. I figure no matter how aggressive a tire you put on this car it'll still ride pretty decent, but I'm a little miscalibrated. I've seen some people say the 235/40 clears fine for them, others say they need to roll the fenders. I figure I may well just play it safe and go 225/45 rather than run the chance of having to roll the fenders.