Re: 17 inch wheels (also P7000)

[Vaino Narma <narmav@ix.netcom.com>]

Eliot Lim wrote:
> 
> i've got 17 inch wheels on my v8. (BBS RX 17X8)  i think that it's a
> really good compromise between looks, ride quality, unsprung weight,
> handling and immunity to damage.
> 
> since i intend to use this car primarily in bad weather, i got pirelli
> p7000 tires in 235/45 size.  the sidewall height is decent and these
> tires are incredibly smooth riding, so i was able to use my regular
> inflation pressures of 45/40.  with that much air i greatly reduce
> the chances of bending a wheel.
> 
> people have been very complimentary towards the new look of the v8.
> definitely a big improvement over the stock ronals and the tall tall
> sidewalls.
> 
> some however have pointed out that the regular 10.9 inch brakes now
> look small.  something to bear in mind if you're thinking of going
> beyong 17...  i'm not about to do anything about that for the
> moment because one needs to look a bit harder to see the brakes..
> 
> there is a definite handling improvement with the shorter sidewalls
> of the 45 series tires, while the ride quality has remained the same
> thanks to the excellent design of the p7000.  i am not happy with
> the lack of sharpness in its responses however and i would not
> recommend this tire for those of you intending to take the car to
> the track.  however in the grand scheme of things it is a very good
> match for my needs.  it was superb in yesterday's gushing rain for
> example.
> 
> eliotHow is the braking and noise levels on the P7000?  What tire did 
you have prior to the P7000s?  I looking to swap out my Goodyear 
RS-As for some more sticky and less squelly, but I still need to 
get through winter out here in the Northeast.  The GoodYear 
RS-As were okay in the snow, but I find them very weak in the 
wet.  They break loss with little or no communications.  I will 
be putting them on the stock 16X7 rims.