Subaru Enthusiasts Car Club of the Sierras - View Single Post - Tire Thoughts

MattR · 2012-04-01, 03:46 PM

I need some help on a tire decision for the MINI. Last season I ran Star Specs in 215/40-17 which left a ton of room, and overall, worked well. But I think I gave up some width.

I have confirmed that I can cram 235/40-17 under my fenders, my only issue is putting them on a 17x7 wide wheel. I have concerns about that as it's an inch smaller than the recommended wheel width per Dunlop. I've never been a big fan of an excessively "rounded" contact patch on a street tire due to using a small width wheel. Has anyone run this size config? I know the stock STi's were putting 255's on 8" wheels, so that's pretty comparable. Thoughts?

My alternative is a 225/45-17 Hankook, which is cheaper, it's width is between the two Star spec sizes, and the tire is a bit taller. I think this might be a good compromise, but I'm not in love with the taller tire. (Although this is the same size as a stock STI Re070 and I had good luck on those).

So, 235 on an 7" wheel, yes or no?

2012-04-01, 03:46 PM	#1
MattR El Matador Real Name: Matt Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 10,660 Car: 2012 Toyota Tacoma Class: ?	Tire Thoughts - 235 on a 7" wheel? I need some help on a tire decision for the MINI. Last season I ran Star Specs in 215/40-17 which left a ton of room, and overall, worked well. But I think I gave up some width. I have confirmed that I can cram 235/40-17 under my fenders, my only issue is putting them on a 17x7 wide wheel. I have concerns about that as it's an inch smaller than the recommended wheel width per Dunlop. I've never been a big fan of an excessively "rounded" contact patch on a street tire due to using a small width wheel. Has anyone run this size config? I know the stock STi's were putting 255's on 8" wheels, so that's pretty comparable. Thoughts? My alternative is a 225/45-17 Hankook, which is cheaper, it's width is between the two Star spec sizes, and the tire is a bit taller. I think this might be a good compromise, but I'm not in love with the taller tire. (Although this is the same size as a stock STI Re070 and I had good luck on those). So, 235 on an 7" wheel, yes or no? __________________ "Dallas..We have a problem.”