Pros/Cons of different size Tires/wheels...

[SouperSport]

I guess this question could go in either Tires or Wheels forum... oh well.

Question is: What is the real benefit to going to 10in rims? Assuming the tire height is still the same. Are 10" rims more for "bling" than performance?

I want to get some new Holeshot HD's for my Shee, But for a set mounted on 10" rims it's gonna cost me next to $300 for the set (about $75 per tire and per rim) and another $300 if I want them for the front. I already need to buy a set of 10" rims for the paddles I just bought. (different thread) I don't want to have to buy 3 new sets of rims...

The front are already 10" so I was thinking about keeping the stock rims and buying just the front tires. I can always upgrade to ITP or Douglas wheels later. Also, The HD's come in a 9" for the rear with the same wheel height at the ones for the 10", so I could just use the stock rear rims as well and upgrade them later too. Do they even make a decent set of 9" aftermarket rims?

Is this a bad idea or just a preference issue?

[91LT250R]

Bigger rims usually lead to lower profile tires. There are exceptions of course. Low profile tires make the ride a little less plush, but the handling is much better with low profile tires. A one inch difference in rim sizes won't be a huge deal for most people.

[SouperSport]

You think the one inch difference (to a smaller rim size) would give me a little more cushion for some semi-rocky terrain? (not softer for me...just to keep from puncturing or shredding another set of tires)

As far as handling goes... I think I keep the tires spinning enough in the turns that I probably wouldn't benefit from the handling aspect a whole lot. Maybe a little if I did some MX or TT, but really I don't so, It's probably not going to matter is it?

[91LT250R]

The size of the tire isn't going to affect the puncture resistance of a tire. Only the ply rating will affect that. But if you're not racing I wouldn't worry about the rim size at all. The 9" rim in the rear is perfectly fine. Just get tires to fit your stock rims. You'll save yourself money and the stock rims are pretty durable. And ITP and Douglas both offer 9" aftermarket rims.

[SouperSport]

Werks fer me!! Thanx Guyz!! =-)