OK, that's fair.

So if the "recommended" minimum wheel width is 8.5" for a 12.5 tire, why do so many folks run them on 8" wheels, and is 10" really the only choice?? And the tire shop today recommended 8" over 10" wheels, even though they would be making about $100 bucks less on the transaction. That's what got me thinking - if there was any good reason at all, I would expect the tire shop to push it heavily so that they could get a bigger sale. Help!

MerCrew66

 

It's like you said. They will behave a little better on the street and the tire will be more narrow with an 8". It will have a wider footprint and wander a little more maybe with the 10" I've never had problems with little tires like that not driving well on 8 or 10 inch wheels so I go with 10" which looks better imho.

 

Or you could do it the smart way: have the installer test-fit each.
They shouldn't charge you any more for mounting one or two extra tires if you're already spending the big bucks for tires/wheels from them. Push 'um, make 'um provide customer service (yeah, THAT lost art)!

Good luck,
Daryl

 

I have a pretty good answer to this post i think. I just went from 35x12.50x16 procomp muds to 38x15.5x16 PJ`s and with 10 in wide rims the tires walk around/sway sidewall flex from having to skinny of a rim i am sure. Go with the widest rim you can without rubbing and this should not happen to you! It is not bad but still noticeable. just my 02cents.

MotoX