I'm having a hard time deciding what tires to run on a new to me set of rims I purchased from another member on this site.

I own a 2002 AP1 with 37,000km's bone stock. I plan on keeping it that way, I just want to up the cornering performance. I won't be tracking the car (only because there are no tracks anywhere near Calgary) and if I do autocross the car, it will be minimal. I just want the best performing street tire that still handles reasonably in the wet, and grips well in a variety of temperatures. Price and wear aren't a big concern to me as I have two motorcycles and a daily driver already, so I'm not going to be racking up the miles on this car.

I purchased a set of TSW Nurburgring rims in 17x7.5 in +45 mm (front) 17x9 in +63 mm (rears) thanks to anamono here on s2ki

I initially wanted to run Michelin Pilot Super Sports as I have heard good things and love the Michelin's I run on my superbikes. However, the max width they come in 17's is 245.

So I guess I have two questions. Would running a 215/245 setup on the Michelins keep the stock stagger and perform well even with the rear wheel being stretched? Or, is there another tire I should consider instead and run a 225/255 setup.


I've been perusing the forums for a couple weeks now. The community seems very knowledgeable and friendly! I've tried to figure out what I want to run without resorting to making my own post, but I'd really love some input before I invest in some new rubber

Thanks in advance!

 

I would choose 225/255 but 215/245 is acceptable
Dunlop Z2 SS is the other tire or at least one of them

 

I agree with the 225/45R17 and 255/40R17. If you want to look at even better dry handling than the Super Sport I would look at the Bridgestone RE71R. They are almost a track tire for the street but they do have very good wet traction. They are going to be quieter and mucgh better in the wet than the Dunlop.

The Michelin is going to last longer and it will be better in the wet than either the Dunlop or the Bridgestone.

If I can help let me know.

 

With a 7.5/9" rim stagger, you will maintain a more crisp handing character on that car with a 215/245. 225/255 will have a little more ultimate grip, but feel a little spongy in handing comparison. A CR stagger of 215/255 may be the best compromise to keep the rear planted but maintain a crisp turn in. Of course sidewall construction plays an equal roll in how the car will behave and feel handing wise. If you’re a handling snob like I am, stiffer the better. I like to let the suspension do the work, not tire deflection.

 

Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires or nothing.

 

A 245 is not stretched on a 9 inch wide wheel. Either is fine and the info Junky gave is on point. As for the Pilot super sport or nothing comment not sure what that means but it all depends on your needs and how and where you will be driving the car.

 

lol True ^^, Im just saying they are awesome for summer tire.

 

The 245 Super Sport is a narrow tire for its size. I thought it looked too small and stretched on my 17x9 Volks.

 

Yep, the typical extreme summer tire most of us run isnt stretched on a 9", it sits rather square. A 225 looks more like a 245 SP.

 

That's an interesting observation because if you go to BMW forums they will tell you the complete opposite of this tire and how it's one of the most square and fatty tires you could possibly get. My Conti DW set the same as PSS sit on the 17x9 with 245