Wheel Recommendation

[ophten]

I am putting together a list of wheels that I like. I'd prefer to move to a larger size than the 215s.

Previous posts seem to indicate that 225/40/18 and 235/40/18 are both viable sizes without rubbing. Has anyone had a problem with either of these? A technician at Mazda told me he dropped 235s on a regular 3 without an issue. I'm leaning towards 225/40/18.

Right now, the SSR GT2 Hybrids and Enkei RPF1s are the frontrunners, but I'm very open to suggestions. Neither of these is available in gunmetal, which is my first choice.

I really like the Motegi Traklites and the Enkei JS+M's but neither is available in an 18" wheel. Ostensibly, I'd love to go with either of those in 18" gunmetal, but alas, the great wheel maker in the sky hates me.

If anyone has a recommendation which is similar, or you'd think I'd like, I'd really appreciate a link.

SSR GT2 Hybrids

Enkei RPF1

Motegi Traklites

Enkei JS+Ms

 

[Kosh]

Enkei JS+Ms

Booyakasha! I wouldn't mind having those on my cosmic blue

 

[ophten]

Booyakasha! I wouldn't mind having those on my cosmic blue

Yeah, those are definitely my first pick. Damn you enkei for only making them in 17s!! /me shakes fist at sky.

On a different note, maybe I just don't understand tires and wheels at all. If I'm wanting to make the move to 225s, do I need to use 7.5 or 8 inch wheels (I assume 8)? Does that same size wheel work for 235s as well? If so, what's the difference and where does the extra "width" actually go? Does the extra bending in the sidewall damage the tire?

 

[ophten]

If anyone has a recommendation which is similar, or you'd think I'd like, I'd really appreciate a link.

My friend Ryan is trying to convince me to move from my 5 spoke gut feeling to a more "supermesh" style. After some looking the Ultraleggera Matte Graphite Silver's appear to be my favorite in that style. Opinions?

 

[major error]

dude...it's your car. Put you you like on it.
If anyone doesn't like your choice, tell 'em to take a flyin' leap!

Personally...I wish Enkei still produced the RSF-2

 

[SwampAss]

Matt graphite is not available in a 5x114.3 from OZ.

The enkeis are everywhere. I see them on everything around here. I don't like the edges on the Motegis. Almost has that "stamped steel wheel" look to it. I know they are light, but they look cheapish to me. The SSRs are baller. I really like them.

 

[jbiird317]

i had the motegi's on my protege and really liked them. They are starting to become more common, but I still like the look of them a lot. As for the OZ's...blech!! those are terrible! you should def not get them!!

 

[Chibana]

Yeah, those are definitely my first pick. Damn you enkei for only making them in 17s!! /me shakes fist at sky.

On a different note, maybe I just don't understand tires and wheels at all. If I'm wanting to make the move to 225s, do I need to use 7.5 or 8 inch wheels (I assume 8)? Does that same size wheel work for 235s as well? If so, what's the difference and where does the extra "width" actually go? Does the extra bending in the sidewall damage the tire?

You can usually find the acceptable wheel widths for a given tire by going to the tire manufacturer's web site. A P225 tire will fit on either a 7.5 or 8" wheel. I have the Enkei RPF1s in 18x7.5" on my Mazda3s 4-door with P225/40R-18 Pirelli PZero Nero M+S tires. I love both the wheels and tires.

 

[AZDriftR]

Enkei RPF1's are the single greatest wheel ever made.....go with those lol

 

[ophten]

Matt graphite is not available in a 5x114.3 from OZ.

Why does OZ hate America? There's the "crystal titaniums", but seriously, that graphite finish is amazing. Why would the want to make me unhappy by not making it the correct bolt pattern?

 

[SwampAss]

Why does OZ hate America? There's the "crystal titaniums", but seriously, that graphite finish is amazing. Why would the want to make me unhappy by not making it the correct bolt pattern?

Evidentially, OZ has no idea who you are.

 

[ophten]

Evidentially, OZ has no idea who you are.

What's up with that? I mean... Damn. Everyone should know who I am!

 

[Haltech]

OZ = overated. Im going with custom forged billet mesh on my car. I need some bling with the silver.

 

[funkyman]

2"lip

Is this wheel ok and good to go with 245/45 rear and 225/45 front keeping stock profile for ride comfort and reduced wheel damage


http://www.discounttiredirect.com/direct/findWheelDetail.do?wd=18&pc=63894&rw=8&bp=5-114.3

 

[SwampAss]

OZ = overated. Im going with custom forged billet mesh on my car. I need some bling with the silver.

Why do you say that? I've had 4 sets of OZs. I've also had a few sets of very pricey BBS wheels and find the OZs to be every bit as nice. The finish on the OZs is about as good as I've seen.

 

[Haltech]

Why do you say that? I've had 4 sets of OZs. I've also had a few sets of very pricey BBS wheels and find the OZs to be every bit as nice. The finish on the OZs is about as good as I've seen.

Well, ive had a pair of OZ's... suposed race quality, race ready and light on my cobra with GR-40 full front/rear coil over suspension. Those wheels were constantly off balance, heavy and craftsmanship was questionable after nearly a year of track time. You cant beat a quality forged, billet wheel. Beauty, strength and lightweight.

Itslike when Foose made really nice wheels..Than one day, they silently sold the name off and the wheels began a different manf process, with quality control out the window. OZ has not done anything outside the envelope.. Basic designs that are overpriced. Reminds me of Fitapaldi.

 

[SwampAss]

I can't speak from the track perspective, only the street perspective. I've never had a single issue. The finish has always been great even years after purchase. Forged are extremely nice. They are also very expensive. I think OZ is a nice mid point wheel. Maybe a bit pricey, sure. If it's the style/color/fit you are looking for, price becomes subjective.

 

[silversurfer3]

i think you should buy my wheels becuse the gold