Originally Posted by danlisahall@comcast.net

I just got back from Discount Tires with my new shoes. I got MB Seven X 15 x 6 wheels w +55 offset. They weigh 1.2 lbs less than stock. I got 195/60 x15 Hankook 727 T rated tires (OEMs were 174/65 x15 R rated). The Hankooks are the highest rated Standard Touring Tires on both Tire Rack & Consumer Reports. I expected better smoother ride, less noise & better handling with some minor mpg loss (1-2 mpg?).

Before I was out of the parking lot I realized the new set up was noiser & stiffer. I can definitely feel the irregularities more on what are pretty smooth blacktop roads - overall there is just a lot more road feel. On the highway up to 70 mph there is no suggestion of a balancing problem, Not what I expected & not real happy about it.

I immediately check the tire pressure - right on at 33. The noise is basically a soft but noticable whiring sound, perhaps due to the fact there is about a 1/2" more rubber on the road than before. Also I realize that the sidewalls of a T rated tire are going to be a bit stiffer than an R rated tire.

So, where did I go wrong with this set up? I am half tempted to go get the Dunlops put back on!!! Any suggestions from the experts here short of spending 50% more for rims & tires? Might a going with the same tire in 185/60 size make much difference? HELP!