Tostao

Besides looking 'phat' and being able to go to a stiffer/lower profile tire
(and of course perhaps a wider tire):

1) Why would I want to go to an 18" tire ?

I have read people saying bigger tires are not good for bad roads, is this because the rim can be damaged easier due to the lower profile ?

Or is it simply the rolling size of it?
(You'd think bigger tires are better against potholes ??)

2) Reasons to go to a wider tire?
Traction only ?
I am thinking I would stay with stock width (don't need any extra help with hydroplaning).

3) If I stay with 17, what rim width ?
I am thinking, if I go to a 17 x7 rim, I can have 'more' tire sticking out on the side and less probable to touch (damage) the rim on a curb, etc.

What do you experts think ??

Wondering before I even start looking for wheels

Thanks!!<p>Jose
01YS4
Pgh. PA.

rao

You wouldn't - get ready for some controversy!

Tostao

<p>Jose
01YS4
Pgh. PA.

asics

The lower profile tires have less sidewall flex and quicker response to steering input. More rubber on the road generally means better cornering and breaking (traction) but you are right about hydroplaning and wider tires. Narrower tires/wheels are better (generally) on wet or snowy roads.

The one suggestion you make that I can't agree with is putting a wide tire on a narrow rim. While it may protect the rim some, the handling will be unacceptable and you could even damage the tire. The S4/A4 is a heavy car and needs some pretty big tires/wheels to get decent handling. I would not recommend anything smaller than stock.

Tostao

<p>Jose
01YS4
Pgh. PA.