Tires have specs for section width, rim width, and rim width range.
(Plus lots of other stuff).

Looking at a Pirelli PZero Nero 225/45-WR17, it lists a rim width of
7.5" and a rim width range of 7-9".

If this wide tire were mounted on a 17x7" wheel, it would seem that
the sidewalls would protrude a bit on either side, offering the rim
some small level of protection against curb scrubbing.

That would seem to be a good thing, but what I need to figure out is
if there are any handling / ride considerations for using a 7" rim
versus a 9" rim.

Any implications for sidewall flexing / rolling resistance / contact
patch / "spring" effect on a tire as a car enters a corner?

Thanks in advance.

-- CL.

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