tire width

[Dyncaus]

alright, i am going to get new tires tomorrow, prob the kuhmo supra 712's, but i have one problem....the stock tire width for my car is 205/55 i believe, but i checked the tires i have on now, and they are 225/50's.....would it better to go back tot he stock width, or just go ahead and keep it the way they are?

 

[nutshot]

A greater section width will increase friction, which often equates to better handling. 225's will seem less reactive to steering wheel input than 205's due to greater inertial mass, but this may be negligable at a 1 inch difference. Since more contact patch means greater friction, the lifespan of a 225 will be shorter than a 205. And finally bearings, halfshafts and control arm bushings will all be subjected to greater abuse due to increased inertial force and increased unsprung weight. To sum up my lengthy speech, 225's will wear faster on your car and wear your car faster, but barely, and the benefit of greater on road friction is probably worth the inperceptable change in car longevity. I would get the largest tire my wallet and conscience would allow.