"45 and lower Tire only found on high performance cars, generally wide; makes few concessions to comfort. Wears quickly, high price. Bumps and potholes should definitely be avoided!
Why a low profile tire?
A lower profile tire is more precise because its sidewall, being shorter and stiffer, will flex less in cornering and transition maneuvers. This higher rigidity also causes the tire to be less comfortable, because tire sidewalls act like springs whenever they hit pavement irregularities. A stiffer sidewall will allow the impact to be felt more acutely by the occupants and a shorter one will make the wheel more likely to be damaged in the event of such an impact.
Is there a meaningful difference?
A tire with a markedly lower profile will obviously be more precise, but in everyday life and on public roads, the type and the quality of the tire will likely have a greater influence on your driving experience than a slightly lower profile. Handling is usually more than acceptable with an upgraded tire in the original wheel size. If you are thinking about fitting lower profile tires to your car, see our subsection on plus one and plus two conversions.
Points to Remember
A larger wheel often means a lower profile tire.
A low profile tire is generally more expensive and wears quickly. Tires are the single highest replacement part expense.
A lower profile tire means more precision and less comfort, the latter because it is noisier and harder riding.
A low profile tire affords the wheel rim less protection.
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