Im considering buying an 04 accord saloon (euro version).

If I buy it, I want to get some bigger wheels, perhaps 18", cos the arches are too big for the pram wheels it comes with.....trouble is I dont want to compromise the handling.

Has anyone got any advice?
Perhaps you have put bigger wheels on yours and the handling has been affected, or indeed not?

Also while im here, can anyone tell me the offset pls?
And would I need to upgrade my suspension?

Sorry for all the questions, I really wana make sure I get it right.

Thanks.

 

1. Assuming that "pram" wheels are the stock steel wheels, the handling will improve depending on the tires. Less sidewall flex and more rigitity means quicker steering response becase there is smaller amount of soft (tire) between two hard surfaces (wheel and pavement). I went from steel 14" to alloy 17" and handling was much improved, albeit the ride became rougher since there is less rubber to absorb bumps in the road.

2. Generally the offset runs anywhere between +35mm and +45mm. Mine are +42mm.

3. You don't not necessarily need to upgrade the suspension, but heavier wheels meansaccelerated wear and tear on dampers and such. Nothing to worry about too much.

 

Thanks mate

 

In the tire section stickies are links to calculators that will sow you the effects of changing tire sizes and rim sizes, widths and offsets. Look at the stickies in the suspension section to learn about that ..... esp. Suspension 2.0