Tire/Rim Size Question?

[Guelphguy]

I know that the most popular 17" tire size for the E34 is 235/45R17, my question is that I came across a site that said you should have at least an 8" wide rim foir that where my rims are only 7.5" Wide....is that is big deal?

[632 Regal]

Theres usually a range of wheel width recommended such as 8 - 9.5.

Choosing a wheel near the middle of the range will give a balance between ride quality and handling. A wider wheel will improve handling at the expense of ride quality, while a narrower wheel will improve ride quality at the expense of handling.

[Robert K]

If you go to www.tirerack.com, they list specs for all the tires they have available. One of the specifications is for "Rim Width Range." This spec will tell you what width rims the tire will fit on. For instance, for the 235/45-17 Michelin Pilot A/S tire, the specs say it will fit on rims from 7.5" to 9" wide. However, if you check the Pirelli P Zero Nero M&S, the same size tire is said to fit on rims from 7.5" to 9.5". So, you have to check the specs of the particular tire model you intend to use to see what size rim it will fit. I will tell you that I believe most BMW rims for the 235/45-17 tire are 17" x 8".

Grace and peace,

Robert K
1991 535i