Regular readers will be aware of the difficulties in getting the wheels to this stage, if not, you can read about the wheel dilemma here.
To date there seems to be no discernible difference in ride quality with the lower profile tyres, the steering has weighted-up a touch at low speed but is fine when on the move and there's no 'tram-lining' associated with bigger tyre widths.
Overall rolling diameter is exactly the same as the old 16" steelies so no change to the speedo riding either. These things were all factored in when deciding to go with 19" instead of 20".
I'm really happy with the looks, its true what they say; 'the wheels maketh the car', and I've already had a few glances from the GTi boys and some envious stares from the Transit brigade!
Hi Richard. just checked in to see how it's looking ~ very nice, I'm totaly convinced the bumpers look best grey, certainly work well with the wheels :-)
ReplyDeleteNow here's the thing, I also droped 40mm all round & fitted 19" alloys for exactly the same reasons! and my van also appears lower at the rear (even though it isn't) personally I wouldn't go lower at the front, i think you've got that right ~ I have toyed wit changing the rear springs for 30mm drop or even as i tow regularly simply fitting rubber spring supports & see what happens (certainly a cheap option).
Anyhow after all your deliberation, good choice with the wheels.
Evan
Cheers Evan,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments.
The front has dropped a touch after a couple of weeks' driving around. I'll try and get a few photos up at some point. I think if you measure from the top of the wheel to the top of the arch on a standard van with stock wheels, the rear is nearer than the front - it just becomes more noticeable when lowered!