Rear tire width change

[ViperBite]

I have not done my research yet, but if instead of a 18x13 rear you ran a 18x12 could you get a broader selection of tires and maybe end up with a "better" tire than the sports?

I can see the argument about less footprint with corresponding loss of traction but with alternatives in tires would that still hold true?

Second issue, how would this decrease in width affect handling?

Comments.

 

[Chuck 98 RT/10]

Define "better."

Better traction? Kumho makes a 335.

Better wear? Stick with Michelin.

 

[Eric H]

I say go with 315's all the way around so you can rotate them! :-D

 

[ViperBite]

Better means a broader selection of tires. I realize that the kumho is suppose to provide better traction but with very little tread is there a "better" option with a narrower tire? Better is pretty subjective just speculating about alternatives.

 

[Fred(DrivingSchool)Kinder]

Broader selection? What features in a tire do you want that is not available from Michelin(Sports or slicks) or Hoosier?

Smaller tires may look a bit funny under a Viper. I can see going as wide as possible for maximizing grip but smaller seems unproductive and undesirable.

 

[ViperBite]

Ya ok. I guess seeing the rear tire sizes of other vehicles like the Z06 just go me to wondering about the size of the Vipers. Does not sound like there is much to gain by a slightly narrower rear wheel. Again I had not specific measure in terms of "better", just more of curiosity rather than anything else.