[blackstripe77]

Hi guys! Frequent lurker, first time poster here! Currently drive a stock BRZ.

I was wondering this: How much does wheel weight and tire selection affect ride comfort?

I've been finding the ride in the BRZ a bit harsh over rough roads and highway expansion joints, with road imperfections sending vibrations through the car and highway expansion joints almost as if tossing or jolting the occupants. To be honest, the stock wheels don't bother me too much style-wise, but if dropping a couple pounds from each corner could remedy the harsh ride it would be something I'd consider. How much of the ride is in the tires? I'm still on the stock Primacies, and would be looking to swap to the Michelin PSS or a Potenza tire in 225/45 for more grip and a bit more sidewall.

Tires: considering Michelin PSS in 225 for the stockers or 17x8 wheels, but don't really like the rounded sidewall/balloon shape, or Potenza RE003 (closest thing on TireRack is probably the S04 Pole Positions), which have a much squarer profile that I like. I've also always run sticky Potenzas (RE11 on my RB3 Odyssey) so I'm a bit biased, but all of my previous cars have been more comfortable than the BRZ. Downside is that the Potenzas have stiffer sidewalls and weight more than the PSS.

Wheels: I was considering 17x8 RPF1s (15-ish lbs per corner). I'd have to think much harder about going even lighter as the TC105N and CE28N are in a completely different price range.

I get it, this car handles great and rides not so great, but it'd be nice if the ride was a bit more... German. Stiff is fine, but perhaps a little less harsh would definitely be appreciated. Thanks in advance!