18's for my CLK

[Locoshaz]

Hi guys,



I'm going to buy some 18" alloys for my CLK and I have a couple of questions. Firstly, if I bought a slightly wider wheel for the rear, would it make that much difference to the ride? I've been told it would but the difference in cash is around £100. Secondly, what would be the best size tyre for this wheel? The general consensus seems to be that 225/40/18 would be the best fit.



Any advice/hint/tips would be greatly appreciated.



LS.

 

[jberks]

forget the width. 18" wheels will murder the ride anyway. The difference between 16" and 17" is considerable. Go to 18" and see if you can get a discount for regular visits from your local cheiropractor.
They are fine for nice smooth roads but the uk roads are way to shabby for them. I've considered switching to 16" from my 17"!

 

[toby1]

Hi,

I am also considering 18" wheels, but I am concerned about the probable loss of ride compliance.

If one selects the staggered wheels, i.e. larger rear than front, I believe one combination would be:

Front: 18x8½, ET30, 225/40
Rear: 18x9½, ET18, 255/35

But there are other variations with different rim widths. I'm still unsure whether I'd regret going from factory 16" to aftermarket 18" so I'm still at the chin-stroking stage.

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

The ride on some surfaces with my 16in wheels and Avantgarde suspension is harsh so I wouln't consider increasing the wheel size. The 17/18in wheels look nice but they will shalke your fillings out on UK roads. Cosmetically yes, but in practice no.

Sorry to sound a kill joy but I would certainly try your model of car equiped with larger wheels before you buy. A very costly mistake if the result is too hard a ride and tramlining.