Originally posted by Auto-X Fil:

I went with the 16" wheels because they were cheap, and so are 16" tires. I've thought about 15" for lower weight, but if I don't want the taller sidewalls or lower gearing. 17" would let me run a 225/45R17, which gives huge tire selection, but that's going to be several lbs heavier than my 16s. I'm running a 205/55 right now, despite the tall sidewall, to see how the gearing feels. If I like the taller gearing, and the 1/2" higher CG over stock size doesn't slow me down, I may go to a 17" if I can find some light, cheap wheels. One other advantage of 17" is that 7.5" wide wheels are common, while they're rare in 16". Mine are 7" wide, wich is great for the 205s I've been running, but 7.5 would be better, especially when I finally get some 225s.



Ditto.

Mine are 16 x 7.5, and I run 205-55 Falkens (RT-215). I've been happy with the grip, steering response, and feedback from the tires. It's a taller sidewall than a 205-50, but about the same as a 225-50. The 205 is very well braced on the 7.5" wheel, but I think next time I'll try a 225.

Function before fashion. '96 Contour SE "Toss the Contour into a corner, and it's as easy to catch as a softball thrown by a preschooler." -Edmunds, 1998