Turning Circle Specs.

[Papasonic]

After reviewing some specifications in regards to turning circle - curb to curb dimensions; I noticed that depending on what the wheel size is, there is a different turning circle diameter, and different steering wheel lock to lock rotation spec. Did anyone else notice this difference?

Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:
2.8 (15- and 16-inch wheels)
2.7 (17-inch wheels)

Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):
34.5 / 10.5 (15- and 16-inch wheels)
36.1 / 11 (17-inch wheels)

Is this variation accomplished by using different steering linkage stops? The steering ratio remains the same. Apparently there are clearance issues when using a wider lower profile tire. This information may be useful to someone contemplating switching wheel and tire sizes on vehicles not originally using a lower aspect ratio tire.

Papasonic

 

[laborsmith]

Anecdotal evidence. I noticed the difference in the specs, these differences are normal for other cars. I went ahead with the low profile tires, 225/45 on 17" wheels and have experienced no rubbing. When I changed I thought the to the 17" X 7.5" wheel, I expected the LTZ wheel was 17" X 7" but have since learned it is 6.5" so have paid closer attention.

I once put 225/45 on a Beretta and because of rubbing had to go to 215/45 so I am conscious of the effect.


Laborsmith

 

[Juliec513]

so the wheel width is it 7.5 for the 17" stock tires or is it 6.5?

 

[laborsmith]

6,5 for the US. 7.0 for the Canadian.

A 7.5 or 8, wearing appropriately sized tires, will fit w/o problem.

Laborsmith

 

[gsxr1000]

Anecdotal evidence. I noticed the difference in the specs, these differences are normal for other cars. I went ahead with the low profile tires, 225/45 on 17" wheels and have experienced no rubbing. When I changed I thought the to the 17" X 7.5" wheel, I expected the LTZ wheel was 17" X 7" but have since learned it is 6.5" so have paid closer attention.

I once put 225/45 on a Beretta and because of rubbing had to go to 215/45 so I am conscious of the effect.


Laborsmith

So how did the Handling change?

 

[laborsmith]

Handling change? Increased road feel.

I just noticed Papasonic's original question has not been answered. Yes, there is a different linkage for cars that come with the OEM 17s, and my Sonic came with the 15s. There has been no hindrance when turning, but I have not tried to turn inside of 35' so don't know if the turning circle has been impacted. But I have not noticed any rubbing when turned to lock.

Laborsmith

 

[SSpeckerwood]

I've got stock 15" wheels on my sonic. I just purchased a set of 17" LTZ wheels.

Now, will it handle better in corners and higher speeds or will I even notice a difference?

 

[laborsmith]

Depends on the tires. Judiciously selecting tires, and yes, you will feel the difference. Also, I recall the steering seemed quicker (yes, even more with the change) but most important, I had the feeling I was driving the car, not the car driving me.

Laborsmith

 

[SSpeckerwood]

so what tires would you recommend?I was thinking about getting the falkien 612

 

[laborsmith]

Falken tires are a good choice. BFGoodrich G-Force Comp2 look good.
I usually go for a Z-Rated All Season, not being willing to change from summer to winter to summer. I have skated on summer only tires in sub-zero weather and hope to never do it again. Living in Michigan makes driving in sub-zero likely, although after the polar shift scheduled to be completed on December 21, Michigan may be in the tropics. Or the arctics.

Continental has an American made summer only with stiffer side walls than what it replaces, so that could be a good choice.

There are just too many good tires each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So many choices, so little money to test them all.

Laborsmith

 

[SSpeckerwood]

Right on. Thanks for the info