CAK 500

My Advan's are finally ready to be replaced with about 20k miles on them. I'm going with PS2's, and am considering 255/40/18's on my 18" OEM wheels. I'm running the spec 245/40/18's now, but thought I might squeeze out some more traction and stability with the wider footprint. This would be within about 1.5% of spec, so from a technical perspective there shouldn't be any problem. Is there a downside to this setup?

BinaryJay

Wider is better for dry traction and worse for everything else.

255s are also more expensive.

designo

iTrader: (6)

255's are fine!

TWong350

iTrader: (8)

I personally think that 255's are a tad too wide for factory width wheels. The sidewall will be a tad thicker as well so it *might* ride smoother. I think you won't notice much difference in terms of traction if you go to 255 vs. the 245, to be honest.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

the increase in profile is not dramatic

but putting 255 on 8" wide wheels? not my choice. we already have another older thread about this

*Batman*

Mate - I have 3 comments for you:

1) PS2 is a very sticky tire and it grips really well so you should see an improvement in lateral grip even with 245. In my case the improvement was substantial when I got these tires. It really is an experience where you can throw the car into corners.

2) 255 is too wide I think. We have an 8" wheel and 255 tires are just over 9". 245 is already plus sized because other OEMs use 225s on 8" wheels.

3) If you want even more grip I would buy the Bridgestone RE-11. It uses a 180 compound instead of a 220 compound on the PS2 which is a significant increase in stickiness. 180 and lower is for racing. Plus it uses a stealth pattern from Formula 1 which provides really good grip in the rain. And the ride is better. I love the RE-11 and am trying to upgrade if someone will buy my PS2s which still have 80% tread remaining.

Also - If you are interested in run-flat PS2s, I have 245/40/18 PS2 ZPs a full-set in classified for $100 a tire with around 75% tread remaining.
Michelin PS2 - 6K miles 75% tread remaining - $400 full set

CAK 500

So ... consensus here and expert at Tire Rack both say no to the 255's. Want to get this done by the weekend. New shoes and sways in the same week ... woohoo! Bats, I sure wish I had your countermeasures.