Changing from 235 40 18 to 215 45 18 pros and cons
Discussion
Is there any disadvantage to downsizing tyres as above? The rims are 8J, 215 is the minimum that is meant to be used on this rim width. The sidewall heights are less than 3mm different between the 2 widths, so I'm guessing the aesthetics will be negligible. The decision therefore is purely on cost and ride comfort. It's not a performance vehicle, this is a combination of anthracite Focus ST line alloys onto my black 2018 Ford Connect. The tyre of choice for me would be Goodyear, and the addition of the alloys is purely to improve the appearance of a nice looking van.
I intend to see how it drives on the 235s the alloys came on, but they need replacing. I don't want to make a potentially expensive mistake, and can't see the point of running a 235 unless there's a good reason to do so.
I intend to see how it drives on the 235s the alloys came on, but they need replacing. I don't want to make a potentially expensive mistake, and can't see the point of running a 235 unless there's a good reason to do so.
It will alter the handling characteristics slightly, resulting in slightly more steering feedback, a slightly more progress break-away near the limit of grip and slightly lower peak grip in cornering. A narrower tyre on a wider rim is typically a better combination than the other way round - as the tyre deflects sideways under cornering loads the tread will tend to left the outside edge, which compensates for the body roll induced camber changes.
You'll need to ensure the tyre does actually fit the rim OK without stretching, although you seem to have covered that. You'll need to check the rolling diameter hasn't changed too much, although you seem to have covered that too. Also be aware that the rim will be slightly more vulnerable to kern strikes - no idea how much of a concern that is for this vehicle.
You'll need to ensure the tyre does actually fit the rim OK without stretching, although you seem to have covered that. You'll need to check the rolling diameter hasn't changed too much, although you seem to have covered that too. Also be aware that the rim will be slightly more vulnerable to kern strikes - no idea how much of a concern that is for this vehicle.
GreenV8S said:
It will alter the handling characteristics slightly, resulting in slightly more steering feedback, a slightly more progress break-away near the limit of grip and slightly lower peak grip in cornering. A narrower tyre on a wider rim is typically a better combination than the other way round - as the tyre deflects sideways under cornering loads the tread will tend to left the outside edge, which compensates for the body roll induced camber changes.
You'll need to ensure the tyre does actually fit the rim OK without stretching, although you seem to have covered that. You'll need to check the rolling diameter hasn't changed too much, although you seem to have covered that too. Also be aware that the rim will be slightly more vulnerable to kern strikes - no idea how much of a concern that is for this vehicle.
Thanks for the input, that's all useful. The speedo reading will alter by 0.8%, so negligible in terms of rolling radius change. One of the reasons I like Goodyear is the rim protector, but I just generally like the feel of Eagle F1s on anything and use them on 3 of my other vehicles. It sounds like there are more pros than cons to the smaller tyre.You'll need to ensure the tyre does actually fit the rim OK without stretching, although you seem to have covered that. You'll need to check the rolling diameter hasn't changed too much, although you seem to have covered that too. Also be aware that the rim will be slightly more vulnerable to kern strikes - no idea how much of a concern that is for this vehicle.
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