RE: tires + wheels

["Simpson, Chuck" <chuck.simpson@zeltech.com>]

The key to purchasing a larger wheel is 'keeping it light'!
Many of the aftermarket wheels that are 17"-19" are super heavy and will
ultimately hurt performance in acceleration.  There are a few manufacturers
that have lightweight wheels in the 16"-17" category, so just do the
research.  

My 15" stock rims w/ tires weighed 38lbs each on my '97 GTI VR6.  I decided
to get some 17's, but I did not want to increase the weight.

I purchased a used set of 17"x7.5" ABT A23 with 205/40/17 tires.  That combo
weighs exactly 38lbs, so I didn't really gain much unsprung weight and
performance wasn't noticably altered.  I love the look with my H&R Cup Kit,
so I'm very happy with the combination.  My friend has 16" OZ Monte Carlos
and they weigh 40lbs with tires each, so that is an example of a 16"
weighing more than a 17".  On the other hand, another buddy of mine has a
set of 17" OZ Superleggaras and they weigh 32lbs with tires each.  That is a
very hot wheel... and very expensive too!

As for tires, I would suggest Toyo Proxes T1-S.  It's an ultra grippy tire.
UTQG rating:  280 treadwear, AA Traction, A Temp
Can't go wrong with Toyo Proxes!

-Chuck Simpson
'97 GTI VR6


-----Original Message-----
From: Cleffordesigns@aol.com [mailto:Cleffordesigns@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 07, 2002 8:30 PM
To: jettaglx@igtc.com
Subject: tires + wheels


Looking to upgrade tires and possibly wheels as well on my 96 GLX.  
Definitely need tires as they are spent.  Are there any pros/cons with 
upgrading to 16" or 17" wheels & tires?  Looking for good looking, nice 
handling and quiet tires.  Live in the South so not too worried about snow 
and not too concerned about tread life.

All info is appreciated.

Thanks.

Mike