OK to use same tyre sizes all round on a 2WD?

[Socket Set Sue]

Does anyone ever think about the area of tread on the road, the braking forces on the contact area, the forces on the contact area when cornering, the weight distribution on the tyres contact area whilst braking and cornering?

Surely this has to be taken into consideration more than lookng for a tyre to 'fill in the gap in the wheel arch' or 'drop the revs by 250' or just look good?

I'm sure the Mazda designers had a very good reason for specifying certain tyre sizes and we should acknowledge this.

[bigdaddycain]

Point taken sue...

But we are talking about non factory sized wheels here,therefore, mazda specs dont come into play... The bongo was never sold with 16" wheels new from the factory.

If we took Mazda literally, we would be driving around on some real rubbish (that would never get through an sva) Did you see the tyres that were fitted originally? I have,they were along the same lines as the sh1te that shod the spacesaver

What you suggest is correct Sue, but it should be used as a guide...not a hard and fast rule, tyre technology moves onwards constantly

[Socket Set Sue]

I see where you are coming from Big Daddy We must keep up with the latest innovations in technology and as you say tyres have come on a long way since the Bongo first came out, I am sure the tyres today are far superior to the tyres of '95.

But, does this mean that we can cast aside the recommended tyre sizes, or does it mean use the recommended tyre sizes safely in the knowledge that the braking, handling, and steering will be within safe limits that can be used by the average driver.

As you say 'But we are talking about non factory sized wheels here,therefore, mazda specs dont come into play... The bongo was never sold with 16" wheels new from the factory.'

So who is going to run all the tests and pronounce 16'' wheels and whatever tyres safe to use?

[Socket Set Sue]

So you are saying because Mazda fitted a space saver spare tyre we should question their judgement as far as tyres go????? Can you give a valid reason for this statement?

And what was yor thinking for 'Another set of good reasons for bigger tyres then' ?

Are you by any chance a wheel and tyre expert in disguise?

[bigdaddycain]

So who is going to run all the tests and pronounce 16'' wheels and whatever tyres safe to use?

Or for that matter 17",18",19",20"s etc...

I think that as owners have chanced upping the size of their own wheels,then it would be fair to assume that if other owners haven't experienced any problems with going oversized,then that's good enough testing for me!

Remember that as the wheel size increases, the tyre profile decreases,meaning that the overall circumference (in most cases) is the same as mazda's original offerings.

Seeing as the friendee is now discontinued by mazda/ford...its up to us to test options as we go along...surely thats the main reason we read the forum?

I have a set of 18" alloys, shod with 225/45/18 tyres...the grip is far superior,the unwanted extra oversteer has now all but gone,the drive is now more predictable,and more enjoyable.

If we ever meet up at a gathering sue, you, or anybody else are more than welcome to take mine for a spin...and judge for yourselves!

[Socket Set Sue]

Thanks for that BD, I suppose each to his/her own and maybe I am too 'old fashioned' and safety concious to accept that bigger wheels are OK. I worry too much.

If you see an original Bongo with original wheels and tyres tootling along at about 60 mph, that'll be me.

[bigdaddycain]

Not at all... its the most important aspect.

All i'm suggesting is that,the safety issues can still be incorporated,and the looks and handling improved also...

I dont expect big wheels to be everybodies cup of tea,but,i have not had any vehicle yet that i haven't modified to one extent or another (even my work cars)

There is one aspect that has gone overlooked with regards to safety issues though sue... That being, its notoriously easy for somebody (who's not clued up) to go out and buy a very cheap east european/korean tyre in 15" guise....as opposed to being lumbered with a cheap/nasty 18" tyre.

I'ts not economically viable for the really budget tyre manufacturers to bother with "boy racer" type tyres.

Beleive me..i have been stung in the past with new cheap and cheerful tyres,when i'd have been better off chancing a premium brand part worn...

[Socket Set Sue]

I agree whole heartedly on using good quality tyres BD, I had a set of Continentals put on about 5000 miles ago and I feel happy on them having driven in most of the different climates on them including a light layer of snow. Its like having a comfortable pair of shoes on with non slip soles...

[Peg leg Pete]

Now then Ladies, no falling out

[francophile1947]

Now then Ladies, no falling out

Unless it's whilst mud wrestling

[Peg leg Pete]

[bigdaddycain]

Now then Ladies, no falling out

Unless it's whilst mud wrestling

Nah!...custard wrestling....tastes much better than mud!

I'm gonna start keeping out of these tyre threads (along with fender defender threads) as something always kicks off if i comment on em....

[missfixit70]

is that you offering to clean up afterwards BDC

[bigdaddycain]

I promise to use a spoon....im such a gent!

[Socket Set Sue]

Thanks for that rundown on tyres keefysher, it made a lot of sense.

missfixit70, I can't see any relationship between keeping a tanker afloat and keeping a Bongo on the road, what kind of tyres did they run on then ...........