Ideal Wheel Size for Track/AutoX for the Boxster

[LuisR]

I went to my first AutoX yesterday and boy.. did I have fun!!! I have the OEM 18" wheels and I was considering getting a set of R rated tires and maybe a used set of wheels so that I don't damage the originals.

I have seen many different Boxsters on track with 17 and 18 inch wheels. i know that by changing to 17" wheels the tire profile will increase, so is this better for track/AutoX??? What are your thoughts??

Thanks

LRR

[Toby]

I went to my first AutoX yesterday and boy.. did I have fun!!! I have the OEM 18" wheels and I was considering getting a set of R rated tires and maybe a used set of wheels so that I don't damage the originals.

I have seen many different Boxsters on track with 17 and 18 inch wheels. i know that by changing to 17" wheels the tire profile will increase, so is this better for track/AutoX??? What are your thoughts??

Thanks

LRR

All else equal, many people (rightfully) claim that 18" wheels are slightly more responsive, as the tires are less "squishy" due to their lower sidewalls/profile). 18" rims also tend to go with wider tires (225 vs. 205 in stock spec?), which contribute to slightly more grip.

I use 17" for track days since the tires are significantly cheaper, and the rims take less abuse due to taller tire sidewall. I fit 235 wide Toyo RA-1's to my front rims, which negate the grip benefit of the 18".

Lastly, you may want to do your first couple track events with street tires, since they offer more feedback and will accelerate your learning. That said, the more "tame" R-comp like Toyo RA-1's or Michelin Pilot Sport Cups still offer decent feedback.

Cheers,

Toby

Edited April 2, 2007 by Toby