Quote:
Originally Posted by hankim68
I usually get a wheel one size smaller in diameter for winter wheels, but I just spoke to Discount Tire, who recommended 14" wheels for my 09 Fit Sport with 185/65R14 rather than 15" wheels with 175/65R15. I've never gotten wheels 2" smaller than stock. Any thoughts?
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The key is the overall diameter of the tires.
As long as the wheel fits the size of the tire controls. 185/65x14 tires are about the same diameter as 176/65x15 tires. 23.4" vs 24" if my quick math is right. The 23.4 is same as stock so speedo and odo aren't affected.
A change of a half inch won't affect them that much, say 2%, or 61.2 mph at true 60 mph for the larger tires.
However, narrower tread tires work better than wide tread for snow travel as they have less width to 'cut' thru the snow. Ditto for larger diameter as the 'ramp' is lower for larger diameters to roll up over oncoming snow. A little extra ground clearance doesn't hurt either.
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My guess is 175/65x15 tires weren't handy so they recommended what they had but I have experience with 175/65x15's in snow and they are excellent.