Which would you guys recommend for supercharged TC.... 215/45/17 or 225/45/17? I really like how the 215s seem like the most optimal size tire and I believe they rotate easier than 225s would...

Sorry for the new post, I have looked at all the others and seen that most prefer the 225s but I would kind of like an explaination as to why the 225s would be better?

 

I only have a CAI, but I put 225s on mine. The 225s felt a little more sure-footed in whatever you drive through. You end up with more rubber on the road at any given time since they're wider. I like the way they look on the rim too, a little more sidewall and cushion because of that.

 

225s, no question. The 225s will have only a slightly taller sidewall (4.5mm) but will have a 10mm wider traction patch. The overall size difference isn't enough to throw anything electronic too far out of whack, and the width isn't wide enough for rubbing issues. And, they're typically about the same price.

 

225 FTW!

 

That's actually correct, based on the 7" wheel width and aspect ratio. Lots of people here like the 225, but ideally you'd want a 7.5" wheel with that tire width and aspect ratio. While the contact patch is wider (as stated by others), the increased sidewall height makes turn-in response less optimal and there are other trade-offs too.

It's my opinion that everyone should do whatever makes them happy, that neither answer is necessarily "right" or "wrong", only that the 215 is in fact more optimal for the stock wheels.

 

Very good points there...

 

I plan on running at the Streets of Willow in Rosamond, California sometime in June. So which size would be best for that type of track?

the topic is 215 vs 225? but I was also wondering what you guys think of the Falken Azenis rt615 vs Kumho MX?

 

You'll be fine with either, however steering response with the 615 or MX 225/45R17 should be about the same or better than 215/45R17 due to reinforced sidewalls. I presume you're running at a high performance driving event and not racing, so I wouldn't expect there to be a remarkable difference between the Falkens or the Kumhos. However, I chose 225 Falkens because the tread width is almost the same as a comparable 235.

 

Does that mean the Falkens rt615 usually run wider tread width than other brands? So, does this mean the Falken 215s would be wider than other brand 215s? Would it be comparable to a 225 in tread width with say the Kumhos?

If this is TRUE, I will be staying with 215s but going with the Azenis because of the wider tread width!

 

Yes to all, however 215s don't have reinforced sidewalls so you could be giving up a little cornering stability. Again, if you're not racing, it shouldn't be a remarkable difference.

 

All things being equal, 215/225s will work - BUT, when you put bigger rubber on the rims, they weigh more.
Unsprung weight is something racers try to reduce with expensive light rims, lighter rotors, etc.
I'd have to say that for the track, the same tire in a smaller size might be the best way to go.
It's more complex than can be answered here, but being general, that's my 2¢

 

Well... it's still an Falken Azenis which should have a stiffer sidewall than the Kumho's regardless of whether it is reinforced or not right...

 

I don't know... 225/45R17 is the max for many FWD racing/solo classes, so I don't think their are too many reviews for 215 to base any opinions on.

 

This is an excellent point. I'd think the additional 10mm width could easily add a pound or more unsprung weight to each corner. Certainly worth considering.

 

I just slapped some 225 BFGoodrich gforce sports and not only do they feel better but it makes my wheels look more flush with my fenders.

 

Good Year Eagle F1 225/45/17
They look and feel MANLY.