Any preferred rim size for FJ wheel swap?

[Skivvy]

Looks like you folks have the 17" rear wheel/brake swap sorted out pretty well. When the time comes it should be fairly smooth since all the options are already laid out.

Among the 4.5" - 5.5" rim widths, is there a preferred tire size for the FJ? I wouldn't be looking for ultimate performance or anything extreme, just don't want any quirks. Never had anything close to a traction issue in the kind of riding I do so handling and ride are about all that seems relevant. All else being equal is there a size where there are the most options to experiment?

[andyb]

The 5.0" wheel with a 160 or 170 will be less likely to have chain interference.  The 180 on a 5.5" wheel is available in more types of tire (though the 160 is a very close second, the 170 is semi-unusual).  This doesn't really matter though, unless you want a very specific tire for roadracing or such.  But with the 180's popularity, I'd expect that it will remain on the market in a wider variety of styles for the longest period.

As for handling between the two, I'd imagine that the brand and type of tire you use, as well as how worn it is, will make more of a difference than the size overall, unless you're really pushing the envelope.

[Pat Conlon]

I've had both the 5" wide YZF600 rim and my current 5.5" rim from the YZF1000.
I ran a 170/60-17 on the 5" rim and 180/55-17 on the 5.5" rim.
Both rim/tire combos worked well. I had more chain clearance with the 170 tire. I have a wider selection with the 180 tires often on sale with great prices. Avon 180's seem to run wider and need shaving on the left side to clear the chain. Michelin Pilot tires are fine with the 180 size.
Both tires, the 170/60 and 180/55 are light years better than the oem 150/80-16 bias ply donut.

Hope this helps.

[Pat Conlon]

Andy beat me to it......again.