Time for new tires - stay with OEM size or go wider?

[Alpine]

My gen 1 is due for new tyres. I am still on the original Bridgestone Duelers and they have become as noisy as a drunk geek on a karaoke night.

I have read numerous threads on tyres on the CR-V, but my problem is whether I should just stick to the OEM size of 205/70/15 or change to something a little wider, eg 215/65/15?

If I change to 215/65/15, do I have to change the spare tyre as well to keep them all the same size (so as not to affect the RT4WD system if I ever need to put the spare on)?

Although 215 is wider, isn't this size overall slightly smaller in diameter?

I am thinking at this stage maybe it's not worth the hassle and just to stick to the OEM size to be on the safest side.

I would just like to hear from other owners who have gone thru this decision process and what you did in the end, and whether you regretted your decision whatever that turned out to be. Thanks.

[TheCrvster]

When budget allows, I'm definitely going wider! The key is to keep the OEM diameter. this way all the great safety systems we have will still work...VSA, anti lock brakes,etc, not to mention the speedometer says accurate.
The best way I found to keep OEM diameter is to look at your tire and go the the manufacture web site,, avoid the calculators on web sites and here's why.
A goodyear vs toyo vs bridgestone vs all other manufacturers, have there own spec on tire diameter. Granted, most are within 1/2 " or less, it is still a difference! I had a Tahoe in 04 that the dealer said I voided my brake warranty due to oversize tires. Long story short, I brought him and his General manager to the Internet and showed him my toyo tires were the exact diameter as OEM on that year vehicle, then proceeded to show him that the Goodyears they were selling as OEM replacements were .03 diameter larger! I did enjoy the GM telling the service manager to fix my brakes:D

[giltibo]

In April of this year, I upgraded the tires on my '03 'V from the godawful Bridgestone Duelers to Michelin HydroEdge (In OEM size)

The HydroEdge, as you would guess by the name, are especially exceptional under wet conditions. These tires make my 'V handle like it was on tracks.

A bit expensive, but highly recommanded.

[Maclete]

I must agree, did the same to my wife's 2002. She doesn't pay mush attention to what goes on in her car, but these caught her attention as soon as it got back from the shop.....

[Wraith3]

Just bought a 06 SE last week and I put on 8 x 18 wheels and 225/50R 18's!
They look great and ride nice too! I will use the factory wheels/tire for winter. I will get a pic on soon for you all to see!

e-mail me for a pic!

SeraphSKA2@msn.com

[miko]

Just bought a 06 SE last week and I put on 8 x 18 wheels and 225/50R 18's!
I will get a pic on soon for you all to see!
18"? Wow. I'd like to see a a picture.

[OSX2000]

Wider and taller. 235/75/15 for me.

[dpavlako]

I just put on a set of Michelin Hydroedge 215/65/15's on my 99 CR-V. It took care of the buffetting problemand it now drives as smooth as silk. They were expensive but worth every penny, especially with the 90,000 mile warranty.

[sgtsandman]

Whatever you wish to do to your vehicle is up to you. Tire size changes will affect what your speedometer reads. Here is a site that will help you with that decision. Personally, since I do a lot of both on an off-road, I'll stick with the OEM size. http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalcold.html

[kb5jsu]

I have had my 99 V 4 a couple of months now and I am seriously hooked. I have been upgrading things 1 piece at a time. I happened on to a great deal on a brand new set of 17" Rims for a 2007 CR-V. In the next week or so I will have to post a Pic of how they look on the 99. I plan to buy Michelin HydroEdge's P225/55R-17 for it so it should look SWEET!!

[Chris_98_LX]

I went to the 215/70 and I regretted it everytime I make a sharp turn, they rub. when I replace them this time I will go back to the 205 or maybe a 195.

Chris

[ricbolton]

Getting divorced and a little depressed but I just added 20" Black/Chrome Kasino wheels and now I feel great.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r28/ricbolton/100_3100-1.jpg

[OUZO Power]

For the record I'm running 235/60/16 on my first gen. Looks sweet.

http://images14.fotki.com/v389/photos/9/946442/4574505/Picture105-vi.jpg

[OSX2000]

I went to the 215/70 and I regretted it everytime I make a sharp turn, they rub. when I replace them this time I will go back to the 205 or maybe a 195.

Chris
You should go for a shorter sidewall, not a shorter tread-width. Keep your traction. 215/65, maybe 215/60, depending on how much you're lowered.

[Chris_98_LX]

I am thinknig a 205/60 now that I am bagged.

Chris