205 vs 225 15" tires for the track

[tmontague]

Has anyone on here run 225 wide slicks compared to 205 and if so, was there a large difference?

I am currently setting up my tire choice and size for next season and it is down to 2 tires that have limited sizes:

first choice - Nankang AR-1 (only available in 205 wide)
second choice and more $ - Toyo r888r in 225

Idealy the AR-1's would be available in 225 width but they are sold out everywhere it seems but a local shop (garage16) has them in 205. The AR-1's are a slightly cheaper tire and the 205 would run me $220 less than the 225 wide r888r. Based on my track time, these tires would likely run me 2 seasons, so this is a choice I don't mind spending the extra $200 on for a wider tire if it make a difference.

My DD'r tires could then be swapped onto my 7"wide +24 6ul's, and my new track tires would go from their current 205 to a 225 and be installed on my 7.5" wide +35 hypergrams. This would be a solid set up and although it would require more fender rolling, if it gives more grip I'd be inclined to do it.

TL;DR is a 225 wide slick on a 7.5" rim noticeably stickier than a 205 wide slick on a 7" rim?

[Jason@SportsCar]

Wider is not always better, and wider is not always wider...

If the 205 is a better compound it will run circles around the 225.

Tire size vary greatly, the range allowed by the DOT for the size on the sidewall is pretty big, you need to look at the physical measurements like tread width and section width. Rim fitment range for a tire is also important, a 205 is typically going to fit better on a 7.5" than a 225.

If you are looking at budget track day tires consider the Hoosier SM7 (spec Miata tire), great price, durable, and faster than an R888R.

[tmontague]

thanks Jason, I appreciate the recommendation, although that Hoosier may be a bit more tire than I need. I found my current 40tw tire (BFG R1) was hard to learn on and become faster. They broke away with very little feedback so it was either grip or slip - although I did have them at too high of a pressure for most of their use.

I'm looking for a 100tw tire as the larger feedback they offer and more margin for error will allow me to push my skill level and better learn the cars limits. I think I'll stay on 205's for now and save some cash for other wear items

[bri62]

I am also shopping for tires. The contact patch will be the same size on 225mm as your 205mm. If your current 205 run too hot, go with the wider tires.
If the 205 run too cool, go to a 195, or use a stickier tire in a 205.
I'm going to get 2 years out of the 205mm Dunlop 102. I'm also looking for better braking and cornering. Let us know what you get.

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