Quote:
Originally Posted by Kathyo
I was told that the ride would be smoother.
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A smoother ride is not based on rim size, but on the amount of sidewall you have in a tire. (It's also based on shocks, springs, seats... but assuming those don't change we're only talking about tire differences).
If you go to a larger rim and keep the same circumference you currently have, you will have less sidewall on the tire, and a much harsher ride.
Consider the following scenario:
Original tire size: 215/60r8
Diameter: 18.2"
Sidewall: 5.1"
New tire size: 205/50r10
Diameter: 18.1"
Sidewall: 4.0"
The new tire is nearly the same diameter, but the sidewall is 21% shorter. This will translate directly to much rougher ride. You'll feel every bump and crack you drive over much more than with the old tire.