I was set on getting 17" rims @ $200/ea, but may be having a change of heart. For the $800+frt for the rims, I could get a 15% pully CAI and MTH.

So I'm thinking of keeping my xlites and just swapping out the tires, for summer only use. Keeping the runflats for winter.

So what are your opinions?

 

Summer only? Get yourself a high performance summer tire in 205/50. It lowers your gearing a LITTLE bit, and the tires are wide and love to grip.

mb

 

I ran several sets of 205/50/16's and loved them. Recently I moved to 215/45/17 and have not noticed any benefit other than looks. Get the performance stuff.

 

If you're not gonna go RF, the only perf. tire I'm aware of in the pure stock 195/55/16 is the Toyo T1R, available through Edgeracing. As noted here, 205/50/16 works fine and there's a great selection available. Tire Rack, Edgeracing & such vendors (and minehune here) are a great source of info about your choices.

 

I got the BFG gForce Sports in 205/50/16 and really like them. They are plenty grippy for everyday driving and will wear longer. The gearing difference is noticable and the car gets off the line and throught the gears easier. I changed from 17" 45s which I didn't like.

 

Anyone running 215/50s? Will they rub if lowered 1"?

 

I have Falken Azeni 215-45-16 (RT-215, the old version) on xlites and they stick really well. No rubbing (car not lowered). Odometer shows faster than actual since the diameter is shorter. I'm in SoCal so wet weather is not an issue - just go slower when that happens. Second set of them and am very pleased.