Date:         Sun, 14 Sep 2008 04:46:26 +0000
Reply-To:     mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bob Stevens <mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Rim recommendations
Comments: To: Cunegonde <cunegonde.van.westfalia@GMAIL.COM>

The main feature of going to either 15" or 16" is stability, I think. Noticeable difference in crosswinds and while driving around large trucks on the freeway. More tire selections with 15" and you can usually have the same overall diameter with taller sidewall, than you'll be able to get with 16". Good tires on both size rims are Nokian CS's. Excellent tire.

I have BFG Radial T/A KO's on CV900 rims in 225/70-16 size and really like the overall usability. Used to have the Nokians and really like how stable those tires are. You can get a wide footprint with those and because you can get 65 series, the diameter remains lower, closer to OE so no loss of torque.

Bob Stevens
'87 Syncro Westy 2.2

From: Cunegonde <cunegonde.van.westfalia@GMAIL.COM>
> I have opportnities to buy either Mercedes 15" x 6 1/2 steel rims, or
> Audi 16" alloys for Cunegonde. Stock  suspension and a stock 1.9L with
> stock 4 speed trans  50% street/50% unpaved back road driving with
> moderate loads. Very little snow and ice, lots of rain driving.
>
> Which rims will give me the greatest tire selection? My current stock
> 14"a with Michelin X truck tires have got to be replaced!
>
> Thanks for all your sage advice.