2G Wheel Size/Offset

[kwbunn]

I've been doing research on wheels/tires for a while now, looking at what could fit on my car- 2g Spyder. I have the stock 16" wheels, and would like to run 17's. I'd rather run 17's than 18's because not only are they genrally lighter, I think they look better, too.

I know that by using this table here:

http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/fre...tions/286685-will-these-wheels-tires-fit.html

that the wheel/tire combo will fit. However, as we all know, just because it'll fit doesn't mean it'll *work well*.

Here's the specs: Volk TE37 Time Attack - 17x7.5 wheel, 48mm offset. 225/45 tire. Is there any gotchas I need to know about? I know the graph says "green" but I want to make sure. I've searched throughout the forums, and people using 48mm offset wheels are a rare breed.

I just want to make sure I'm not doing anything stupid. For example...they may *work* okay, but will they *look* okay, too? Also, I want to be future-proof- if I want to upgrade the brakes to big brake kit (I'm actually thinking the Evo brake conversion), will this offset ruin the chances for that?

 

[DSMSpyder99]

48offset is really meant for Impreza. If your going to spend that much money on Volks why are you going to be running a narrow 7.5"? At least get a 8" or 8.5" (42-38mm offset) w/ a 225/45.

As for using EVO Brembos, it is hard to tell because a lot has to due with spoke design. For instance, EVO VIII & IX need to use spacers on a 17x9" or 17x9.5" Enkei RPF1 & NTO3 because the spoke design hits the caliper. However, 5zigen FN01RC 17x9 with 35 offset clear the calipers.

 

[kwbunn]

It's more of a limitation of the specific wheel sizes in that model Volk that are available. I've see 17x9 and 9.5...but no 8 or 8.5. And the 9's have a *65* mm offset.

I can do 18x8.5 with a 40mm offset, but I really wanted to stay away from 18's.

Of course, if I just get standard TE37's I can get them in whatever size I want. I just liked the look of the Time Attacks.

 

[DSMSpyder99]

If I were you I would add some 5mm H&R Hub Centric Wheel Spacers on your list, if you really want the TA version. It will help fill out the wheelwells better.

 

[fatherbubble]

What are you plaining on doing with the car???? If drag go with 15's if road racing an track go with 17's that are light.

 

[kwbunn]

If I were you I would add some 5mm H&R Hub Centric Wheel Spacers on your list, if you really want the TA version. It will help fill out the wheelwells better.

I'm guessing these are for the 17x7.5 48mm offset wheels, correct?

 

[fatherbubble]

48 too big. Some say 45 will work but I wouldnt go more than 42.

 

[wret]

If your going to spend that much money on Volks why are you going to be running a narrow 7.5"? At least get a 8" or 8.5" (42-38mm offset) w/ a 225/45.

Good point.

There's no question whether or not they'll fit. People put 225's on stock wheels all the time (46mm offset) with plenty of clearance.

 

[kwbunn]

Good point.

There's no question whether or not they'll fit. People put 225's on stock wheels all the time (46mm offset) with plenty of clearance.

Wret, I'm glad you responded. You're quite prolific in the handling forums, and you have a Spyder, just like me, so your input is definitely appreciated.

This is what I told DSMSpyder99 earlier in the thread:

-----
It's more of a limitation of the specific wheel sizes in that model Volk that are available. I've see 17x9 and 9.5...but no 8 or 8.5. And the 9's have a *65* mm offset.

I can do 18x8.5 with a 40mm offset, but I really wanted to stay away from 18's.

Of course, if I just get standard TE37's I can get them in whatever size I want. I just liked the look of the Time Attacks.
-----

I can get 18x8.5 with a 40mm offset, like I said. Will that be a better choice? I'm trying to stay away from 18's for weight/cost/fitiment reasons, but in this case, will they be a better choice since they're wider? I know 18's are *possible* - but are they *reasonable*?

 

[wret]

.. and you have a Spyder, just like me...

had

It's more of a limitation of the specific wheel sizes in that model Volk that are available. I've see 17x9 and 9.5...but no 8 or 8.5. And the 9's have a *65* mm offset.

People "upgrade" for different reasons; some for performance, some for style, more likely a combination of the two. I stop short of recommending brands or styles. I only look at the specs to determine fit. Regardless of your reasons this will likely be the most expensive single upgrade and one that is typically done once. So be sure you make weigh all the factors and choose wheels that you'll be happy with for a long time to come. It seems there are always good deals on wheels that don't fit.

That said, the original wheel/tire combo you asked about will fit but you will not be able to put wider tires on them in the future. Your concerns about 18-inch wheels are well founded. They are typically heavier and the thinner tires will have a harsher ride and greater risk of pothole damage. They sure do look good though, IMO.

 

[kwbunn]

Darn it, wret. I did a little more research and the 18x8.5" TE37's aren't that much heavier.

I have 235-40/18's (stock) on my S4. I'm thinking either that size or 245-35/18 with a 40mm offset.

245-35/18 *seems* to be a better choice. The tire diameter is closer to the original tires on my car (205-55/16), even though I sacrifice about .3 in of sidewall...for a little harsher ride. I understand with either tires I might have to roll the fenders.

...I still wish I could get 8" wheels. Those would be perfect, I think.