Rimster

You recently advised someone to avoid 19 inch rims on a BMW 3-Series and to go for the smallest wheel size. What would you say are the pros and cons of the wheel sizes available on 3-Series? I know the SE and Sport versions have 17 or 18-inch wheels and the ES models come fitted with 16-inch rims.

Asked on 29 August 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

All the tyres are roughly the same circumference. So the larger the wheel the less tyre between rim and road and the greater the level of discomfort. A further consequence of wide, low profile tyres is lack of steering feel. While, of course, the closet a rim is to the road the more vulnerable it is to damage by potholes and speed cushions.

Tags: wheels and tyres technical issues owning

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