Tyres or alloys and tyres 17" or 18"

stamford · 25-02-13, 02:01 PM

I have two sets of wheels, BK299s on 17" just sprayed in gunmetal and the Inovit Aros on 18" both sets needing tyres tbh. The 17s are getting on a bit and the 18s worn on the inside, plenty of life in them for track use however.

So the dilemma is do I buy 4 off 225/35 x 18 or go 205/45 x 17 or sell both sets and buy something else with tyres?

So does anyone have a set of alloys with good tyres? not wanting straights before you ask. Just want to see what is out there.

Craig-ZS180 · 25-02-13, 02:27 PM

I know it doesnt help in your decision but I think your 18s look great on the zs. Be a shame to get rid of those.

stamford · 25-02-13, 02:52 PM

The prices I have found thus far are putting me off. Found some Kumho Ecsta KU39s for £119 a corner fitted. Not used them before, reviews seem good but not sure tbh. I can't justify some in excess of £158 per corner. Jury is still out on some. The Falken 452s served me well but they seem to be replced by another spec now. Toyo T1Rs I like but they do not last too well.

Craig-ZS180 · 25-02-13, 03:08 PM

Can see what your saying Mick. Ive heard good things about the Kumhos too, was very tempted to try on mine but the only reason I didnt in the end was I managed to get hold of the new Falken ze914s fitted for £70 a corner and I always liked the older style ze912s.

Although I was after the mk2s for ages since fitting ive now been thinking along the lines of a change for something lighter possibly but probably still 17s. Id be tempted @ £119 a corner but deals do pop up atm all over the place.

DuckFeet · 25-02-13, 03:27 PM

Got some 5 spokes with 3mm of Kumhos left on them you can try...

I wouldn't say that's particularly helpful unless you want more wheels. Sorry.

stamford · 25-02-13, 03:36 PM

I need tyres more than wheels, but wheels are on the list if they look good and the tyres have plenty of life in them.

gibbzy2k1 · 26-02-13, 10:28 AM

I am thinking of putting Kumhos on the rear 18s this year. Mainly as they are the cheapest above budget crap. My Sterling Coupe has Kumhos all round and they have lasted well and I am pretty pleased with them. they are only about £80 a corner for my 17s but as u say about £120 a corner for the 18s

zsserbia · 26-02-13, 12:50 PM

Try to source these and you can't go wrong, the best one for the price, possibly cheaper than Kumho:

http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/BF...Profiler-2.htm

I'm saving for the second pair of them once I get winter tyres off. I got them on the front and they really stick like glue once they are warmed up, some say better than V-12's. Sidewall is very strong even though mines are only 16's... No under steer whatsoever. And the wear is very good. I think the figures on the review are quite honest.

gibbzy2k1 · 26-02-13, 03:54 PM

Nankangs are looking a cheap alternative too. Ran Nankangs for years on my 200 coupes and my forst 800 and they were great. it seems that 225 35 18 is a bit of an awkward size with little choice round my area.

stamford · 26-02-13, 05:30 PM

I have also found some Marshalls, it seems that EARS (Escort & Rally Spares) sell them so they can't be that bad. However reviews are few and far between. Also came across a German tyre called Syron, but not alot regarding suppliers in the UK.