Billy987

I've been going to the track for a year now with my 09 Cayman S which has 19" wheels on it. I've been through a set of tires already and am going to get more. I'd like to have a second set to take to the track in case I get a flat, etc. My instructor told me to look at going from 19" to 18" tires because the price and selection of 18" tires and rims are better. My questions are, will this work?, is there a difference in performance (better or worse)? Has anyone done this? Advice please!

Apex1

I have a set of 18 inch Signature SV-104 forged monoblock in powder coated black chrome, 9 inch F offset 47, 10 in R offset 35. I have coupled these rims with RE71R's 255/35/18 f and 275/35/18 r. Fronts are less than 19 lbs, rear just over 19. I really like the way these work and look around town and on the track. These wheels are not rotery spun or flow formed, rather are from a solid forged monoblock T 6061plug (see above picture) and mechined out, which gives the strongest and lightest wheel. Since each wheel set is made specifically for you, you can choose your wheel width and offset to meet exactly your specifications. Meaning that if you had GT3 LCA's and used the internal shims spacers to push out the track to gain camber, this would change your offset requirements of your wheels. Lets say you chose to use 15mm internal shims, you would then want the offset to reflect that amount so your tires would clear the lip of your fenders. These are factors that must be considered when ordering a wheel set as more and more track guys are using the GT3 style LCA's to gain camber to save the outside shoulders of your tires.

brad@tirerack.com

Have you looked at the BBS RIA? It's a fantastic 18" race wheel and has dimensions that work very well with your car. I'm able to order from BBS. Most use with 245/40 18 and 275/35 18. R888R is a good choice for tires.

18X8.5 5-130 ET48 POR 18.5 lbs.
18X10 5-130 ET40 POR 19.4 lbs.

Apex Wheels

Hi Billy,

Our pre-order Group Buy includes 18" wheels that are chassis optimized for the 987. You can view all details, specifications, and pricing on the Group Buy site - HERE. Please check out our 987 fitment guide to see which wheel specifications & tire size will best fit your use and application.

Brian C in Az

I went from 19's to 18's. I'm now running 255/35R18 and 265/35R18 on 18x9 and 18x10. No clearance issues. Amazing front grip. Took a couple laps to get used to the lack of front slide and immediate turn in at all speeds. The car is on rails now. Every lap I'm pushing the tires harder and harder to find their limit. Apex speeds went up much more than I was hoping. I'm very glad that I took the plunge and tried the new sizes. The only negative os now I'm wanting more hp.... it just never ends..... more, more, more