I am currently running the stock size tire, 16/195/55 , I would like to go too a 16/205/55 or a 16/205/50 and suggestions, will this affect handling?, I do like the fact of having a little wider tire....
Thx

 

Yes, it will affect the handling, but if you aren't running on the ragged edge of grip against a clock you won't likely be aware of the difference. 205 is slightly better than 195 for cornering. 205/55 is a bit better for ride than 205/50. With those choices of sizes, your selection of tire brand/model will matter far more than will the size selected.

 

I've run 205-50-16 non-runflats on my MINI ever since I sold off the runflats. IMO it's a prefect size.

 

I think 205/50/16 is the best performing size for 16 inch wheels, but unfortunately,
the selection of good Max and Extreme peformance summer tires in this size has dwindled.
I have the Conti DW tires in this size, but they've recently been discontinued.
There are no Max Performance tires anymore, and Extreme performance is limited to the
Direzza Zii and Zii Star Spec and the Toyo Proxes R1R.

There are better selections in 205/55/16 at the present time,despite the higher sidewall,
diameter, and weight. I would lean toward the Conti DW or the Bridgestone RE-11A in
this size at the present time if I had to replace my 205/50/16 DW tires.

If you want a good all season tire, the 205/50/16 Conti DWS is hard to beat.

 

205/55/16 gives you far more tire options and can give you an awesome soft ride or razor sharp cornering depending on tire choice but more importantly - tire pressure levels. Running 38psi front 42 rear on extreme summer Hp tires will put the go-kart feel back in it. Drop them down to 32psi and you can take on most city potholes with comfort again. The Toyo tires are awesome but I want more than a couple thousand miles from my tires,.... your results may vary.

 

What are the odds I can clear a 225/50/16? What's the widest you guys are running on a 16 with no rub