tung-sol

the 225/50 is too short and the 225/55 is too tall, both about 4.4% speedo error in opposite direction. 235/50 only 16" size that matches in circumference, but won't they rub on a stock '02 A4? I'm thinking less fender gap (a whole 1/4") with the 55 series may be the lesser of two evils, I do not plan on lowering the car and it's already a bit gappy looking to me.

Any thoughts appreciated.

ex-quattro PETE

The stock sport pkg 17" rims have similar offset and come with 235-wide tires and they don't rub, so you should be fine, too. It's just that since the stock 16" rims are only 7" wide, 235-wide tires may look like bloated-up baloons on them. Personally, I don't like that kind of look. Also, tire selection in that size is pretty slim.

On the other hand, there are quite a few tires available in size 225/55/16 and this will only throw your speedo off by 1.7% so it's not too terrible. I'd probably go with this or just stick with stock size.

tung-sol

the 225/55 makes more sense to me if I upsize a bit. I really dislike cars with short-walled tires that look like they NEED to be lowered, and I just don't want to go there.

You're right, I did't see much selection in the 235 and no, I don't want balloons on there either.

DolphinAvant

why not 235/45/17....hehe since stock 16 cant take 235?

ex-quattro PETE

because he'll be putting them on his 16" rims.

tung-sol

I'm very pleased. Looks good, nice rim protector, fills the wheel-well gap "a bit" but not too bulky.

More importantly, they ride nice, very smooth over expansion joints in concrete, bumps, etc. Time will tell ... I haven't pressed them on exit ramps or back roads yet. I don't expect much more than decent spirited driving out of them though.

QP, what to you recommend for pressures, somewhere between the 215 and 235? Right now I'm at 38 frt/36 rear but it's close to 100 degrees on the road.

ex-quattro PETE

I've heard they're very capable in dry/wet conditions. Their snow performance isn't all that great, but after all, they're not dedicated winter tires so you can't expect miracles.

Not sure what the recommended pressures are for the B6 A4. Check your fuel filler door sticker (or owner's manual) for manufacturer recommendations. I'd start with the same PSI as recommended for the stock 215/55/16 size and then maybe go up 2 PSI for more crisp turn-in/steering response. Make sure to measure the pressure when the tires are cold. Also, take it easy on them for the first couple of hundred miles while they're breaking in.

tung-sol

seemed like a good choice all around for an H rated tire. It's very rare that I approach even 100 mph (yes I do know the backroads of the Eastern Shore very well, hehe), more like 70-80 on 495 and Rt. 50 east towards Annapolis on an early commuting day. Glad you have good feedback regarding them.

Yes, much too hot today, they were around 42 psi each when I got home so I dropped the pressure a bit. I'll check the sticker as you suggest and adjust before heading out in the morning.

Thanks again.

Gary@Tirerack.com

Agree with QP there, 225/55R16 will fill fender and look better IMHO

DolphinAvant

no, what i mean is, can 235 fit on a 16? isnt it 16x7?