Yeah...

I've found some winter tires on Ebay but don't know it they'll fit. 215/60/15. I think I also found a set of 225/60/16... I know some people run 225 without rubbing, yes?

What does aspect ratio mean? I know what the other two numbers are about, but get stumped on that stupid middle one!

What's too high, what's too low?

Thanks internet pals!

 

215 / 60 /15 --- is too tall, will rub during lock to lock operation. may not rub during normal driving, but will rub during most 90 degree turns. you best bet for a 215 is 215/55/15 or 215/50/16 or 215/45/16.

 

Here are a couple of links to tire size calculators.

http://www.1010tires.com/TireSizeCalculator.asp

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

http://www.bmwtips.com/tires/calc.htm

http://www.rims-n-tires.com/rt_specs.jsp

 

To compare tire sizes go here and enter in the OE size and then the tire size you are choosing.

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html




Passenger Tire Sidewall Information
Example: P215/65R15 89H
“P” means this is a Passenger car tire as opposed to a light truck tire. P-metric is the U.S. version of a metric tire-sizing system.

“215” is the section width of the tire in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall when fitted on the recommended rim.

“65” is the aspect ratio of the tire, the ratio of height to width. This particular tire's height is 65% of its width.

“R” indicates that this tire is built with Radial construction. Other types of construction are indicated by the letter “B” for Belted Bias construction, and the letter "D" for Diagonal Bias construction.

“15” is the diameter of the wheel in inches.

 

You don't want a 215 or a 225 for a winter tire. Go for a 195.

 

thanks for the diagrams and links- but its probably one of those things that ill never understand...just like math.

how about 205/55/16?

 

The lower the first number, the thinner the tire. You WANT thinner tires for wintertime use, as they cut thru the snow and slush better.

 

why yes...pizza cutter wheels!