One should pick a tire based on intended usage and needs, NOT on whether it's available in 245/45-16 or not. If performance similar to or better than stock is desired, the RE750 is out. Better off on RE050A Pole Positions or RE01R's in 225/50-16. Or the Hankook RS2's, which are available in 245/45-16.

 

And what is the scoop on the hankook RS2's are they as good as the BS S0-2?

 

No, they don't have quite the grip of the SO2s (some have said that they feel they have 90% of what the SO2s provide... do a search... there are several Hankook R-S2 threads) but as indicated above they are considered by many to be the cost leader for an all around dry / wet performance tire.

 

So I was about to decide on re-01r's and i found out front tires are actually a little bigger than stock, so it will make my rear end feel light.....any confirmations on this?

 

I haven't used RE01R's, but reports from the track day/autoX users are very positive. Probably the best dry grip street tires available for the AP1.

Don't get *too* hung up on getting exactly the same published "tread width" figures and stagger. You severely limit your selection to the point of eliminating some of the best tires available from consideration. IMO...

Regarding the Hankooks, I just got back from Lime Rock and they performed extremely well, much better than I expected. (205/50-16 F, 245/45-16 R, on 7" F, 8" R wheels) In fact, myself and others were wondering if I actually might have had a tire advantage (or at least parity) vs. R compounds in the cold (temps were in the 30s). But then I went faster the 2nd day on Kumho Ecsta 700's

 

I just got RS-2's in 225/50R16 and 245/45R16 since I have a swaybar. Can't beat the $87/$99 price from edgeracing!

 

The Kumho SPT is available in a decent range of sizes in the 16" range. Doesn't have the grip as the RS2, but will outlast it by a good bit.

 

Most of the performance tires are going away in the 245/45R16 size. The best out there right now would be the RE750 from Bridgestone. They are also the same contact patch as stock S02's.

 

the question is how do 750's perform for autocross?

 

Never autocrossed, but Id say not as good as OEM S0-2's BTW have a contact patch like a 245. If you still have OEM's on the fronts, then use OEM's on the rear.