To stagger or not to stagger....

Z

Z4Rick

Member
OK. I've taken my stock 17" wheels and added some Yokohama Ice Guards for the winter conditions I expect by November 15. My intent is to get new wheels and tires for next spring and swap them in April, and I have decided on Michelin Pilot SS for the rubber and am close on the wheels, but a question keeps popping up......Should I continue with the stock staggered wheel and tire widths, or replace all four with the same size on all wheels. I will go to a19" wheel and non-runflats, but question the staggered set up. I am not sure this isn't just for looks or the venerable N54 is simply too powerful for a skinnier rear tire..... Also, I am not sure if the extra inch of width in the rear adds noticeable traction/grip.....Thoughts?
 
I have 18's for summer with the standard staggered tyre widths, 255 and 235 (i think). My winters are 17's with 225/45 all round. No issues at all. Its winters anyway so greater profile rubber is allegedly better. Plus, if I'm going to kerb any in the snow, it'll be the 17's, not my nicely refinished 18's.
 
Mr. Wilks,
My other tire thread seems to make this moot.
http://www.z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=90879&p=1339131#p1339131
The new tire size effectively reduces the 'revs per mile' issue to a minimal differential. The new wheels at 19x8.5 and 19x9.5, both with 30mm offsets. Going to a same size on all four might extend longevity with rotation, but would also potentially affect handling in the turns and on the skidpad...pretty much a toss up! (Unless you foresee OTHER potential results?)
 
I have staggered and they will stay on all year, just need to wax them and rinse the salt off over winter. :thumbsup:
 
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