215 tyre on 7.5" Denver Rims on Mk5 Golf

[Bushranger]

I'm tossing up between replacing my 235/45 tyres with 215/50, bypassing 225s all together. Anyone had experience rolling 215/50s on Denver or other 7.5" rims?

[dylan8]

they are pretty close.
but why would you go a narrower tyre?

[Bushranger]

To increase the OEM diameter towards QLD legal maximum (+<15mm). Most of my distance is accumulated on highways, so the greater circumference has shown to be an advantage on the 235s. But if the 215 on 7.5" rims

Diameters : 225/45 R17 = 634mm. 235/45 R17 = 644mm, 215/50 R17 = 648mm. Custom rims, wheel tire packages for your ride - RIMSnTIRES.com

[dylan8]

Ahhh i see. If thats the case the narrower tread pattern may reduce resistance also.
Fitting a 215/50 on a 7.5 wide wheel will be no issue. Pretty standard sizing

[Bushranger]

Thanks Dylan. One tyre retailer said fitting 215 on vehicle/rim that was 225 OEM was illegal. Never heard that, nor had other fitters.
Advantages of 235/45: more tread, greater grip. weight spread over more area. Purchase price, rim protection.
Disadvantage: greater resistance, perhaps higher fuel economy.

Advantages of 215/50, less rolling resistance, lighter, better fuel economy due to lower gearing,
Disadvantages: PRICE! $90-$40 dearer per tyre than 235/45. Same weight over smaller area. Unsure if performance/longevity negates this disadvantage.

235 is 20mm wider (circumference = 202.32cm)
215 is 4mm taller (circumference = 203.58cm)

I've placed an order for 235/45 R17, a much more popular size and i know how it performs on the Golf.