Pros and cons of wider tires

[cdencore]

I am getting really mixed messages about the pros and cons of going with wider tires assuming NO CHANGE in rim size or overall diameter.

In terms of ride comfort, some posts have said that wider is better because it smooths out the bumps whereas others have said there will be a decrease in ride comfort due to the wider tire contacting and transmitting more road bumps. Which is correct?

Also, is it fairly reasonable to assume that wider means decreased mileage due to higher rolling resistance?

[Discount Tire]

Originally Posted by cdencore

I am getting really mixed messages about the pros and cons of going with wider tires assuming NO CHANGE in rim size or overall diameter.

In terms of ride comfort, some posts have said that wider is better because it smooths out the bumps whereas others have said there will be a decrease in ride comfort due to the wider tire contacting and transmitting more road bumps. Which is correct?

Also, is it fairly reasonable to assume that wider means decreased mileage due to higher rolling resistance?

From my experience, answers to questions like these seem to run people around in circles. There are pros and cons to wider wheel and tire set ups and pros and cons to narrower wheel and tire set ups.

If you are shopping for a new set of tires, I would first suggest selecting a tire(s) that performs the way you want it to, then select a size that will also compliment what you are trying to achieve.

What are you looking to get out of your tires? Life, lower MPG, all-season performance, highway performance? If you don't really know. Tell us how and where you drive, we'd be happy to make a recommendation.

[ImDisaster]

There are too many variables to say wider will give better performance, more rolling resistance or stiffer ride. Compound, sidewall stiffness, profile, all come into play. The biggest concern, with wider tires is clearance to the shock and fender.