Wheel Size vs. Balance

[jellygorilla]

Hey guys.
I'm thinking about getting five axis R5 19 inch wheels for my FR-S. What are the down sides of having such big wheels? Will it throw the car off balance majorly from the already balanced stock setup? Also do I need to lower the car if i do install the wheels?

[chutrain]

Yes, bigger wheels will most definitely throw off the dynamics of the vehicle. You will have additional unsprung weight, an inaccurate speedo, different gearing, and may not be as sharp handling wise. 19s are only good for appearance. Otherwise stick with a 17 wheel for performance.

[jellygorilla]

Originally Posted by chutrain

Yes, bigger wheels will most definitely throw off the dynamics of the vehicle. You will have additional unsprung weight, an inaccurate speedo, different gearing, and may not be as sharp handling wise. 19s are only good for appearance. Otherwise stick with a 17 wheel for performance.

Alright thanks, I guess my max size would be 18's then.
What if I get the tein springs that the dealership offers? It's suppose to drop it by 1 inch on my 17's. Is that even worth it? or should I just wait it out and buy some better stuff later?

[gmookher]

what are your goals with the car?

[ngabdala]

Wow, I just started a thread on this same topic.

The only thing I want to add to what the OP posted is that I am going turbo next year.

Appearance of the tire is not important to me. I want something no heavier than the stock wheels (preferably lighter). I am looking at the JDM STI wheels for the BRZ which are 17x7.5j and also 18x7.5j.

I would prefer the 17's due to less weight.

I just want to know if the size and tire width with these wheels is able to handle an approx 275-300whp considering I go with the best tires.

[RavSpec]

for 275~300 WHP, u will need more tire width for better grip. Or better tires will also help as well.

For the mid level price range, u can check out the Yokohama S. Drive, Hankook K110 or the Falken FK452.

For higher end stuff, check out the Dunlop Direzza Z1 Star Spec, Michelin Pilot Sport, Yokohama Advan AD08, Hankook RS3.

I'll stay at 17" and 18" for cheaper tires and more tire choices.

Wheel weight does make a difference during auto cross and track, but for street, a few lbs differences will not effect too much.

[ngabdala]

Ok. Well I definitely want to go with the STI 5x100, 17x7.5j +48mm for wheels so I will buy the best tires I can. I must have those STI wheels.

Originally Posted by RavSpec

for 275~300 WHP, u will need more tire width for better grip. Or better tires will also help as well.

For the mid level price range, u can check out the Yokohama S. Drive, Hankook K110 or the Falken FK452.

For higher end stuff, check out the Dunlop Direzza Z1 Star Spec, Michelin Pilot Sport, Yokohama Advan AD08, Hankook RS3.

I'll stay at 17" and 18" for cheaper tires and more tire choices.

Wheel weight does make a difference during auto cross and track, but for street, a few lbs differences will not effect too much.