Hey all,
I'm looking for a new set of track tires. Given that they will go on a stock 15" GSR rim, same brand/model of tire. SO the only difference would be tires size.

Pros & Cons?

195/55s
Pros:
-stock size
-"softer" ride compared to 205s
-cheaper $$ compared to 205s
Cons:
-taller sidewall compared to 205s, which means more sidewall flex

205/50s
Pros:
-stiffer sidewall vs. 195s in terms of performance
Cons:
-not a 100% match in diameter
-cost more $$ compared to 195s

So, aside from the ride, I guess the biggest question is, is there any performance difference between 205/50 and 195/55?

Thanks!

 

from what i've read before, you won't get the full potential out of the 205's since the rim isn't wide enough to give it that downforce on the sides, and the side will curve up. so save the money and get the 195's.

 

Wow, hadn't heard that one. Thanks for the tip. Definately leaning towards the 195s then...

What is the "optimal" width of a rim for a 205 tire?

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by yoda888 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Wow, hadn't heard that one. Thanks for the tip. Definately leaning towards the 195s then...

What is the "optimal" width of a rim for a 205 tire?

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7" although lots of people put it on the 6.5" it works better with 7", cause on the 6.5" it still has that slight curving effect, although its WAY better to put it on the 6.5" then stock 6", so don't even think about 205's for stock.

 

205's all the way man that is if your on the "track"

kumho v700 205/50
yokohoma avs es100 205/50 currently running
falken azinis 205/50-- these are very grippy on street
toyo proxy 205/50

!! all of these have stiff side walls !!
and if your runnin 205/50 there shouldnt have issues with side wall flex youll see that on 195/55 the higher the profile the more flex

and puttin a 205/50 on a STOCK rim is fine.. by the way looks very good on Si's and pretty much all GSR's

 

I have Bridgestone Potenza 205/50/15 tires and love them.

 

I am sorry if you are more knowledgeable than you sound, but good lord man!! You could use a composition class or something to keep you "on topic" and clear. The guy just wanted the pros and cons for performance.

I am siding with shupagsr. On a rim that is not wide enough, you will not be able to take full advantage of the tire's width. However, tire alone...the wider the tire + the larger the contact patch = better performance. I would buy a set of wider wheels personally, but as for your question...195/55/15 would be the better tire for the wheel.

 

Ok done. I ordered the 195/55s instead of the 205/50s. Seems that the stock rim wasn't wide enough to accomodate a 205 properly. The 205 would have looked better, but if performancewise there isn't a diff, then hell I rather save some money. Who cares what it looks like!