UncleRemus

OK, so I bought the BBS RS wheels from GeorgeK , and I'm looking for a recommendation for tires in 16 inch.

Keep in minid that I would like to dial out some understeer without spending a bunch of money on suspension.

Option #1: Kumho Ecsta KS 225/50-16 and 265/45-16


Pros: Stiff sidewall, aggressive tread pattern that would suffice for an occasional auto-x, low UTQG that probably wouldn't screech when pushed??

Cons: Probably won't, but is closer to rubbing than the other option.

Option #2: Toyo T1R 225/50-16 and 245/45-16


Pros: Better wet weather tread, has a semi-solid shoulder that might not chunk too badly for aggressive driving, slightly shorter tire for a little gearing effect, probably the best solution to my understeer concerns without changing suspension

Cons: Not sold by Tire Rack, f:r diameters are a little off, might complain when pushed on the street. I really don't like attracting attention when I generate a little bit of slip angle on fun roundabouts and entrance ramps.


Does anybody have experience with this model Toyo? Normally I would just order the Kumho as I love their R compounds, but I'm intrigued by dialing out some more understeer . . .

UncleRemus

Oh, important point . . . the wheels are 7.5" and 9", so theoretically I shouldn't go less narrow than a 245 in the back per the mfr specifications.

LouZ

I have been using T1R's for a number of years, a set as my DD tires (on 17" rims) and as my DE tires (on 16"). My overall impressions are that they are a great tires, dry and especially WET, even on the track!

For the 16's, I use the 205 fronts and 225 rears, which are the mfgr sizes.

Vandit

Any reason why you aren't also considering the Dunlop Star Specs and Hankook RS3s?

UncleRemus

I'd love RS-3s, but the 225/50ZR16 can only be mounted on an 8" width rim max. I might push it on my cheap-ole Miata, but I don't want to put the RSA into a guardrail or tree.

AHA! The Dunlop Star Specs are 225 width, but listed up to 9" wheel width! Interesting, and a new alternative - and cheap! Thank you!!!! I have a set on the Miata now and actually like them. I'll probably stick with these.

Vandit

I see what you're saying now, and yea, 225 on the rear is a bit anemic. I'd probably go w/ the XS in the sizing you listed in your original post.

Ever consider moving to 17"s? 16" options sure are limited.

Earlydays

I've run Kumho V700's and Hoosier A6's in 225/245 sizes on 16" Cup 1's (7"/8" widths) with no issues other than rubbing on the inside wheel well at full steering lock.
Today I run AD08's in 205/225 on the same wheels. I no longer use "R" tires because I run in a SCCA Street Tire class....as you get older you don't feel like hauling and changing wheels at events.

UncleRemus

I'd even go a far as saying "in this heat, NOBODY likes hauling and changing wheels at events." I quit autocrossing until a buddy bought a gutted trailer queen FD rx-7 . . . so much nicer.

And, yes, I already have three sets of 17" wheels, but still love the BBS RS enough to buy. Anybody need to buy turbo twists?