Question on rim/tire fit

[channelmaniac]

I'm looking at downsizing the rims a bit as these 18" tires are expensive and there were only 2 brands/models to choose from the last time I needed tires. (Seems like Volvo is the only other vehicle to need this size tire - 215/35R/1

I'm looking at the 17 x 7.5 SSRs with these specs:
Offset: 37mm Backspacing: 5.59" Bolt Pattern: 4-100
Rec. Tire Size: 205/40-17
Weight: 14.5lbs.

Will these fit OK? Will I need spacers or roll the fenders?

Thanks!

[creek]

You certainly wont need spacers, as for rolling the fenders I don't think so. The tire will be within a half inch in diameter of 205/50/15 and the same width. I have that size on 35mm offset on my NA with no problems.

[driftdevil]

you should be fine with those on the NB

[Radio-Active]

That is the stock tire size on the Mazdaspeed Miata.

The SSR's will look great and the offset should be fine. I believe my rims are 7 inches wide with a 35 offset, the SSR's at 7.5 inches may be a 1/4 to 3/8 inch further out.

[channelmaniac]

They are on order

Got a great clearance price on the rims... $259 ea.

They are loaded with Kuhmo Ecsta AST tires and I'm anxious to see how she'll drive with a few pounds shaved off of each wheel.

Hell, the tires alone were $55 cheaper than the 18's I've been buying. After a few sets of tires the rims will be paid for.

Wait... maybe I shouldn't have said that since I'll need to sell the old rims/tires.

[ray_sir_6]

You might want to see if Tirerack still was some 245-35-17 Eagel F1 tires in stock. They are blowing them out, and are only 2.8% taller than stock, and alot wider!

I hope you don't bend them. Buddy of mine had the Type C 15" and he bent 3 just going home after having them mounted. No potholes, either. It is gonna be even worse without having a tall sidewall.

[channelmaniac]

These are taller sidewalls than what I have today.

[ray_sir_6]

How strong are your current wheels? SSR Type C are VERY THIN, very easy to bend.

[channelmaniac]

Dunno how strong they are since one was bent and cracked. I had it repaired and a new tire put on it. I'll be cleaning them up and listing them on Craigslist this weekend.

O-M-G! The car is a TOTALLY different beast with these on it!!!

It's smoooooooth off the light, lighter on the clutch, quicker throttle response, and feels SO light on it's feet! WOW!

I took 5+ pounds off of each corner and it really did make an amazing difference.



Now I hope they don't get stolen.

WOOHOO! & baby!

The tires are 215/40R-17 Kumho Ecsta AST XL. I hope the extra height helps with keeping rim damage down.

[Magma]

Ttiwwp!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!