Best rim width for BFG R1 225/50/15

[Bob Roth]

I am running Kosei K1 15 x 7 on my ITR class Integra type R using BFG R1 tires and am wondering if there is performance to be gained by going to a 8 or 9 inch rim.

Would going to a wider rim be worth it, and if yes, would you go to an 8 inch or a 9 inch?

[betamotorsports]

8" is real good if the ITR rules allow that rim width on your car. 9" is probably too wide. According to the Hoosier guys you want the rim width to be equal to or about 1/2" wider then actual tread width.

[ITA_honda]

Bob - Were you the one who ran the 8hr enduro at Mid-Ohio last year? (Western Ohio Region) White Integra Type R?

[TStiles]

I'm told by the west coast miata guys ( not limited by SCCA width rules ) that the hot set up for the NA/NB miata is the 15x9 with a 225 ... I've got a buddy here in texas that has tried it and he's very happy and quick with the set up

[Bob Roth]

Yep, we were at Mid Ohio last year, it was fun, especially the last 1/2 hour.

Thanks for the comments, looks like we are in the ballpark, ITR cars are allowed up to 8.5 inch rims.

[Z3_GoCar]

Bob... you're correct the widest rim in ITR, unless it came stock with something wider, is 8.5". Also, I don't know how BFG's measure up width-wise, but Hoosier 225's are the same width as Toyo Ra-1's in 245. That could explain why Hoosier 225's would go well on a 9" rim.

[Bob Roth]

Thanks for the observation. I measured my 225 50 15 BFG R1 and its about 8.1 inches. I compared it to an old 225 15 14 Hoosier R3 I had which is about 9.1 inches.

I guess that explains why the hoosiers would rub on my del sol's trailing arms while the BFG's don't...... Here's a link to the pictures - https://picasaweb.google.com/theroths07/20110705?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJnU9K2rvrPdQw&feat=directlink

Here is my dilemma. The BFG's wear really good for endurance racing, maybe twice as good as Hoosiers. Does anybody make a tire that wear's really well that's a true 225+?

[Z3_GoCar]

In that case, I'd say go to a 245 on a 8.5" rim. You'd get the grip of a 225 Hoosier, and the life of the BFG.

[Eagle7]

Widest 15" R1 is 225.

[Drew M]

If you're interested, I have a set of BFG R1's 225/50/15 that I just havent gotten around to putting up for sale yet. Only 2 or 3 weekends on them.