Tires, Wheels, & Brakes Discussion about wheels, tires, and brakes for the new MINI.
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205-45-17 versus 215-45-17

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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 08:48 PM
  #1  
meanboy's Avatar
meanboy
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6th Gear
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From: the great country of california
205-45-17 versus 215-45-17

I put my runflats on two days ago because it was going into the shop and got it back today. I notice that the turn in seems quicker. Is this a result of the smaller footprint of the 205? Plus, my car seems to roll easier as well even though my S-lites weigh more then my SSR GT1.

I think my driving might consist of one or two autocrosses a year and maybe a driving school session or two.

When my Kumhos wear out should I consider going back to the 205 size?
 
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Old Jun 15, 2005 | 06:15 AM
  #2  
Alex@tirerack's Avatar
Alex@tirerack
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From: South Bend Indiana
Originally Posted by meanboy
When my Kumhos wear out should I consider going back to the 205 size?
205's make a "lighter" feeling in your hands for required steering input.

AAlex
 
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Old Jun 15, 2005 | 07:43 AM
  #3  
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Goose
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From: Western Ohio
You've experienced what I've noticed as well. I refer to this feeling as "nimbleness".

I'd liken the difference in feeling to wearing different shoes; cross-trainers give you better overall grip (bigger contact patch), but wrestling shoes (with their tight fit) feel more nimble. I have no doubt that the larger contact patch tire has a higher level of absolute grip (assuming they're getting to the proper temp), but a smaller tire will have more steering feel. Steering feel is not be confused with a lower/stiffer sidewall.

Do you guys agree with this description/conclusion?
 
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Old Jun 15, 2005 | 09:17 AM
  #4  
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meanboy
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From: the great country of california
Thanks for the input. I noticed that while it rolls easier the grip is not as high as the Kumhos. But on the plus side, the stock RF are much quieter then the Kumhos. I think it's time to change out the Kumhos.
 
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