For the first set of tires on my soon-to-be-delivered SC 430, I've decided upon the Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 conventional tire. I'm almost there, but for one last detail...tire size!

While I'm in a spending mood, I've also decided to exchange the stock OEM rims with a chrome rim. The easy way to go would be to simply have the original rims replaced with a chrome version of the same OEM rim in the original 245/40ZR18 tire size. However, since I'm changing rims, why not reduce the rim size to a size that offers more rubber and less chrome? Why not, as someone suggested in this thread earlier, use a smaller rim size to enhance cabin quiet and smoothness of ride? I already have vehicles that offer handling that will be superior to anything the SC 430 could provide no matter what tire and rim is used on the car; in changing rim sizes, my intent is to maximize smoothness of ride and reduce noise as much as possible in this car.

So here's a question for you: What's your opinion about reducing the SC 430's low profile rim size from 18 inches to 17 inches, then mounting a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 tires in an appropriate size? One possible issue I foresee could be whether the tire monitor sensors would work on a 17 inch rim. A lower speed-rated tire would not bother me, either. Asthetic considerations related to a smaller rim size vs. the "cooler" 18 inch rim are not particularly important to me.

Any comments, suggestions, or warnings, etc. are appreciated...thanks!

John

 

I've mounted 245/45 Pilot A/Ss on chrome 18" OEM rims, and I also added 25mm spacers onto the rear. I'm very satisfied with the ride, and, personally, I like the look because the slightly higher profile tires fill in the wheel well. My speedo is off by only about 3mph. Everything was installed by my local Lexus dealer, and they had no issue with any of it.