Tire Sizes

VW's aircooled mini SUV. Great for riding in the country, or cruising the beach.
User avatar
MNAirHead
Posts: 9570
Joined: Mon Sep 08, 2003 6:12 am

Tire Sizes

Post by MNAirHead »

What are the suggested tire sizes for a thing.. radials.

Tim
User avatar
Kubelmann
Posts: 1380
Joined: Sun Jan 05, 2003 12:01 am

Post by Kubelmann »

The stock tires on a stock Thing wheels (steel disc, 14 x 5 JK) is 185 SR 14 (185 75 14)
If you change to a 15" wheel (as is required when converting to front disc brakes) You can go as big as 205 75 15 on stock suspension and body height. [/i]
User avatar
MNAirHead
Posts: 9570
Joined: Mon Sep 08, 2003 6:12 am

Post by MNAirHead »

Any idea how big the rears can go without freaking out gearing etc..

Thinking taller fatter would be good.

all on 14" rims
User avatar
Kubelmann
Posts: 1380
Joined: Sun Jan 05, 2003 12:01 am

Post by Kubelmann »

How about Yokohama Avid Touring 205/75/14

http://www.gt1tire.com/servlet/Detail?no=67

That tire is 26" tall and at 5000 rpm with stock Thing motor and trans you will be traveling 67 mph. at 3500 rpm you will travel 47 mph

Or for a big wide look BF Goodrich Radial T/A 225/70/14

http://www.gt1tire.com/servlet/Categori ... %2F70%2F14

That tire is 27" tall and a bit wider and at 5000 rpm with stock Thing motor and trans you will be traveling 70 mph. at 3500 rpm you will travel 50 mph

Clearance on this second tire on stock wheels may be an issue You will also be shifting gears frequently as you off the line power will be lower.
User avatar
Marc
Moderator
Posts: 23741
Joined: Thu May 23, 2002 12:01 am

Post by Marc »

The original 185-R14 had an aspect ratio of ~83, making it around 25.7" tall.
I'd probably go with a 195/75 - approximately the same diameter, not too wide for a 5" rim, and available in load range C & D if you desire.
You'll lose almost ¼" of clearance between the inner sidewall and the lower control arm at full lock, so you may need to adjust the steering box stops slightly to keep from rubbing.
User avatar
MedicTed
Posts: 418
Joined: Sun Jan 08, 2006 8:59 pm

Post by MedicTed »

User avatar
Kubelmann
Posts: 1380
Joined: Sun Jan 05, 2003 12:01 am

Post by Kubelmann »

I run Hankooks on many of my cars and they are a very good tire.
Post Reply