[SlobberJaw]

I have searched and read A LOT of threads about all kinds of wheels to get for my sti...2006 btw...

I am looking at :
Work emotions CR's 18x8.5's
Advan RS's 18x9
5zigen zr+520 18x8.5

My questions are, what backspacing do I need to get to make these have a nice look (read: not tucked under) and still provide me with the functionality...

I am getting a little confused by the backspacing since the offset numbers seem to be different depending on the wheel you choose.?!

thanks for any input or pics for reference!

[T3h_Clap]

Backspacing can be calculated from Offset and wheel width.

you can read about it here.

Proper Fitment for those wheels will be.

Emotions CR's 18x8.5 +43mm 235/40/18
Advan RS 18x9 +45mm 245/35/18
ZR+520 18x8.5 +47mm 235/40/18

I believe the +47mm would clear brembos with the Deep Type 1 face.

what are you willing to do to make these fit?

the 9" Advans will require some work to fit if you're just running springs and not coilovers.

do you have a tire you really want to run?

what is your suspension setup?

[SlobberJaw]

Well,
I am planning on coilovers, specifically the RCE tarmac IIs. There is a possibility for the new prodrive setup, but I'd really like the suspension to be geared more to track than street.

As far as tires go, I have no specific brand I am looking at but I have had good luck with Falken RT's...both the old 215's and the new 615's.....do you ask this because of sizing availability? I was thinking the size would be 245/40/18's but would like it wider if practical.

On another note, i have had several emails stating the RS is at least 60 to 90 days before I get them....and that they aren't available in a +45...but I know I've seen them in that offset somewhere.....

As always, suggestions are welcome....

[T3h_Clap]

You wont be able to run an 18x9 +45mm without coilovers or with fender modifications.

and the RS is available in an 18x9 +45mm time frame sounds about right.

you'd probably be better off running a 255/35/18 RE01R than a 245/40/18 RT615.

the 245/40/18 is too tall and requires stiffer suspension then the standard T2s to not run into issues.

also, either way you go you'll want to run around -2.0 in the front and -1.7 or so in the rear.

[SlobberJaw]

Thanks for the info. I am uncertain at this point now. I am somewhat reluctant to push the wheel size envelope on a vechicle that will not see strictly track duty.

I may reconsider even though the RS are freakin' awesome IMHO.

Jesus this wheel thing is worse than an other wrenching I have done....mainly because I want the right look combined with the functionality....thanks for all your help.

One last thing, with looks being the lowest on the importance scale, what would be/is your ideal wheel/tire combo in these situations....

stock
Coilovers (such as the RCE tarmac II's)
whatever else I haven't thought of....

I decided to post this instead of PM'ing you so others may benefit from this discussion....

[SlobberJaw]

looking a little more and concerning the 5zigen zr+520's I have found this:

These wheels, 18x8.5, +47 and having the type 2 face, clears the impreza brembos....so the us and japanese versions of 5zigens website says.....so lets say I plan on getting these....what size tires? and what do you think the fit will be like?

Just curious....plus it is late and this topic is all I've been thinking about....

[T3h_Clap]

The ZR+520 isn't a very light wheel. Just an FYI.

My "ideal" wheel and tire setup for a street driven STi is 18x8.5 (+43 to +48) with a 235/40/18 Sticky tire (RT615, RE01R).

Reason being, this setup will fit 90% of suspensions and wont require any fender mods.

track down my journal to see an 18x8.5 +45mm and 235/40s to get an idea of what the ZR+'s will look like.

don't hesitate to ask any other questions if i missed something.

[PuccasBad_STI]

I ordered a set of Advan RSs 18x 8.5 from vividracing and I was advised to go with a 50 mm offset and 225 40s. They advised me not to go with a 9 inch wheels since my sti is more of an everyday driver. I am not a fan fender rolling and I think you have more of a tire choice for stock and future suspension possibilities. I gotta say th3_clap is very knowledgeable as all three places that I contacted in regards to wheels for stis he has been onpoint as far as the different wheels and their perspective offsets.

I ordered the advans today, what do you think as far a 50 mm offset? and wat tire do you recommend. I am planning on running stock suspension and the above tires...

and as far as the choices between the advans are the sweetest looking, I saw them on an RSX and they look swweeeeeeeett.... the zigens are nice and best for the money and you don't have to wait 3 months like i will for the advans

[T3h_Clap]

The 50mm offset isn't bad by any means. with a narrow tire (less than 245) you will have no issue with 90% of suspension setups (inboard and outboard clearance), assuming you don't slam the car.

I'd say go with a 235/40/18 RT615 or RE01R or RS2 Z212 no point in not you wont have any rubbing issues even if you decide to use lowering springs.

I hope vivid follows through with their end of the deal .