I will be putting new wheels and tires on my sc430 in the spring.I was thinking of going to a 245/45/17 wheel / tire combo to save weight and add more tire for a better ride.Anybody go this route?

 

Now that is different. Do you have run-flats? If so, a lot of people here ditch the run-flats for regular tires and they say that gives them a much improved ride.

If you don't have run-flats and want to go to the smaller tire for a better ride, then I would guess that you will have better mpg with the lighter weight and your ride may get marginally improved - but I'm not sure I've heard of anyone doing this. You'll likely be the first as most people want bigger tires/wheels.

On other thing to consider, the car may not look quite as nice with the smaller wheels - again, maybe just a marginal issue but something to think about. Considering the cost, of even some 'cheap' wheels/tires, I don't think it'll be worth the benefit, but that's not based on knowing - just a guess.

 

I have non run flat tires on the car already,and it has improved the ride over the run flats.I feel with the tires size I picked (the same dimension as the 18"),and the wheels only 1" smaller,it should look close to factory.

 

You are not the first. I installed 17" GS wheels 10 spoke wheels with 225 50 17 tires. The car looks great with them giving the car a balanced look and I dont like the skinny tire look of the low profile tires. I drive the car daily so wanted 50 series tires that could take all roads and do well in ice and snow. The mileage did increase by just half a mile per gallon on the highway from 28 to 28.5 cruising around 70. I can only compare ride to the run flats which isnt saying much. I have 12K on the tires and dont see much wear and they are wearing evenly. Handling is about the same to me but I dont drive at the limit. They never pull when braking which the 18's did. Also I went with the tire I did as it retains the same height as stock and the gs wheels have the same offset.

I see no downside to 17's especially as a daily driver. Of course I am probably speaking for a minority at least in this forum which seems to follow bigger the better.

I know you are going to ask for a photo but have not figured at how. I wish someone would send a step by step answer to that.