If i wanted to use my stock mini wheels for winter and buy a set of performance wheels for summer, is it better to go for larger or smaller wheels? In my travels in Grass Roots Motorsports, it seems that smaller wheels, like a set of 15" ssr's is the best bet... opinions anyone?


Ryan

 

Thoughts on this really vary, currently most folks buy bigger.... I think it depends on your use... smaller is difficult to fit big brake kits but ssr comps 15x7 apparently fit wilwood race kit with 3 mm spacer....

my humble opinion is that 15's are the way to go, as less unsprung weight means better handling and stopping... for street I use 205/55-15... some folks run 205/50-15 for the street which is a bit small, but can help gearing....

Track I plan to go with 225/45-15 and for snows I'll use the 16 inch all seasons that came stock with car...

I bought bbs rg-f's and love them, strong forged 15 inch x 7.... which apparently don't fit the wilwood 11.75 race kit unfortunately, my only regret...

do what you want!

 

Talk to Alex about your tire options first. Before the brakes even.

You may find that 15,16 and 17" wheels all offer different levels of tires to pick from with regard to size and compounds. Each will have somewhat varied handling properties as well. If you plan on slicks at some point for open track use this may be a very big issue to work through.