I'm in need of some new tires for my GS400 and considering getting new rims wile I'm at it. I'm really just doing it for looks, those 16's look too small.. What can I expect from the ride? Obviously it will handle better but what about the quality of the ride (smoothness)?

 

16 to 17 is quite mild change in terms of ride quality(if much at all)..16s is def "waayyy too small"...for a large car like GS..go for 17s with a nice set of tyres...

 

I use 16" for the winter and 17" for the summer - 16" set came with car...I bought 17" set from CL member (thanks 1TYMZ). Not much difference in ride quality...though you do notice the 16" has the cruiser feel (more cushy over bumps, etc). The 17" ride is just slightly harder, but not that noticable. Plus the car feels more "stable" with the 17". I'd say go with 17" and good tires and you will be happy (avoid Falken tires - have them on my wheels - too noisy). Unless...you want to get into 18", 19", etc. - I'm sure one of the wheels sponsors can help.