MS3 Wheel Size -- Downgrade to a 16" or 17"???

[mazdadude]

I am hoping to get the opinion of those who go to a smaller rim on the MS3. I would like to know if the taller sidewalls make a big difference in the ride comfort.

Thanks!
(2thumbs)

 

[chief_wiggum]

I'll say this; the 205/50-17s I'm running for winter are 100X more comfortable than the 225/40-18s I used the last 3 winters.

 

[MikeHTally]

Don't know for sure, but I'd think 16s might not clear some brake bits.

 

[Darth Vader]

16" steels cover the brakes just fine but, you'd probably have to be careful with cast wheels. I think 17" would likely improve handling in this cars case. The short stiff sidewalls of big inch rims contribute to torque steer, making power application more difficult. Plus, you'd see improvements in wet -weather performance, tire to tire, with a higher profile 17". The only downside MIGHT be on billiard table smooth pavement where you might lose a touvh of steering precision and turn-in with the higher sidewall tire.

 

[EdgeAutosport.com]

Depends on the rating of the tire as well. The higher the speed rating, the stiffer the sideway is going to be but I'd say as a general rule, the more sidewall height you have, it probably gets a little better on comfort. Not a BIG difference though. The suspension has more to do with ride comfort than the tires.

 

[Benior]

The 205/50-17 Dunlop Wintersport M3s I use in the winter definitely result in a more comfortable ride than the stock 215/45-18 Bridgestones. It's still a pretty stiff ride, but it is actually noticeable. Your mileage may vary depending upon tire choice.

 

[DarkAngel]

I also went down a wheel/tire size. Currently running Konig Runaway's Hyper Grey 17x8 with a 215/45R-17 Khumo Ecsta AST's. Slight bead to the tires but feel a lot more comfortable than the stockers. Prior I had 225/45R-17's Falken Ziex ZE-912 and those felt great also. IDK, but 17's just fit it right and feel much better. May try a 215/50 next time for a bit more sidewall.

 

[Domino81]

235/40/17's would be the correct size in overall height I believe for a 17".

 

[goob_os101]

FD wheels fit great!

 

[mazdadude]

Thanks to everyone for all the responses and ideas!

(drinks)

I do like the simple looks of the FD RX-7 wheels too! Thanks for the PIC!

 

[ohioan]

I've got the 2011 sedan's 16" on for the winter. Mazda told me you can't get any 16" on our car... Wrongo!
Ride is much comfy in Cleveland now. Pot holes don't feel like roller coasters anymore

 

[blackmagik]

im going to get springs and struts over the winter and hopefully sell my speed3 wheels so i can get some 17x8 or 9 wheels!

 

[blackmagik]

17!s