Tire Size 225/50r17 vs 215/55r17
The main difference between the tire sizes 215/55r17 and 225/50r17 is in their width. The 225/50r17 tire is wider by 10mm (0.39 inches), offering potentially better grip and stability. However, it has a shorter sidewall height of 5.75mm (0.23 inches), which might provide a firmer ride compared to the 215/55r17 tire with a taller sidewall that may offer more cushioning.
225/50r17 vs 215/55r17 Table
The table compares the features of tire sizes 215/55R17 and 225/50R17, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 215/55r17 | 225/50r17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches | 26.31″ | 25.86″ | 0.45″ |
| Width inches | 8.46″ | 8.86″ | 0.39″ |
| Circumference | 82.66″ | 81.24″ | 1.42″ |
| Sidewall Height | 4.66″ | 4.43″ | 0.23″ |
| Revolutions | 766.53 | 779.95 | 13.42 |
| Rim Size | 17″ | 17″ | Same |
| Rim Width Range | 6.0-8.0″ | 6.0-7.5″ | Different |
Overall Diameter
The 215/55r17 has an overall diameter of 26.31 inches, whereas the 225/50r17’s diameter is 25.86 inches. The 215/55r17, therefore, has a larger diameter of 0.45 inches, an increase of 1.7%.
A larger diameter tire, such as the 215/55r17, offers more ground clearance. This characteristic is beneficial when off-roading or navigating rough terrain, as it reduces the likelihood of scraping the vehicle’s underside. However, an increased diameter will lead to a lower speedometer reading than the actual speed.
On the other hand, the 225/50r17, with its smaller diameter, may lead to scraping or damaging your vehicle on uneven surfaces. But it could result in a higher speedometer reading. Both sizes remain within the recommended diameter difference of 3% from factory recommendations, which ensures compatibility with the vehicle’s design.
Section Width
The section width of a tire refers to the width of the tire from one sidewall to the other. The 225/50r17 tire, at 8.86 inches, is wider than the 215/55r17, which measures 8.46 inches. This difference results in a wider contact patch for the 225/50r17, which can provide improved traction during acceleration, braking, and cornering. However, this width could result in increased road noise.
The 215/55r17, with its smaller tread width, might have less grip on the road, especially under wet or slippery conditions, due to a reduced surface area in contact with the road.
Circumference
With a circumference of 82.66 inches, the 215/55r17 surpasses the 225/50r17, which measures 81.24 inches in circumference. A larger circumference equates to lower speedometer readings, while a smaller circumference gives higher speedometer readings.
Revolutions Per Mile
The 225/50r17 tire turns approximately 779.95 times per mile compared to the 766.53 turns for the 215/55r17. A higher RPM often means more wear and tear due to increased friction with the road surface, which could lead to a shorter lifespan for the 225/50r17. The 215/55r17, with its lower RPM, may have a longer lifespan due to covering less distance per rotation.
Sidewall Height
Sidewall height plays a crucial role in the ride comfort and appearance of the vehicle. The 215/55r17 has a taller sidewall height, measuring 4.66 inches. This added height absorbs more road irregularities, providing a smoother ride and increased traction on snowy or icy roads.
On the contrary, the 225/50r17 tire, with a shorter sidewall height of 4.43 inches, may deliver a harsher ride with less cushioning. However, the reduced sidewall height often gives the vehicle a sportier, more aggressive look.
Rim Size
The 225/50r17 and 215/55r17 tires are designed for 17-inch rims, commonly found in many cars. However, the 225/50r17 has a slightly narrower acceptable rim width range of 6.0-7.5″ compared to the 6.0-8.0″ range of the 215/55r17.
Larger rims, such as those accommodating the 215/55r17, often give the vehicle a more aggressive, sporty look. Conversely, the smaller range of the 225/50r17 may offer a more classic or conservative appearance.
How much taller is a 225/50r17 tire than a 215/55r17?
Based on the given data, the height of a 225/50r17 tire is 25.86 inches (656.8 mm), while the height of a 215/55r17 tire is 26.31 inches (668.3 mm). Thus, the 225/50r17 tire is about 0.45 inches (or 11.5 mm) shorter than the 215/55r17 tire.
How much wider is a 225/50r17 tire than a 215/55r17?
Analyzing the widths, we see that a 225/50r17 tire is 8.86 inches (225 mm) wide, and a 215/55r17 tire has a width of 8.46 inches (215 mm). Therefore, the 225/50r17 tire is approximately 0.39 inches (or 10 mm) wider than the 215/55r17 tire.
Can I use 225/50r17 instead of 215/55r17?
About the overall diameter, the 225/50r17 tire measures 25.86 inches (656.8 mm), and the 215/55r17 tire measures 26.31 inches (668.3 mm). The difference between these two tire sizes is roughly 0.45 inches or 1.7%.
Given that this percentage difference is less than the suggested maximum of 3%, it is possible to use a 225/50r17 tire instead of a 215/55r17.
Can I put a 225/50r17 on a 215/55r17?
Concerning the rim width compatibility, the 225/50r17 tire can fit a rim width range of 6.0-7.5 inches, and the 215/55r17 tire fits a range of 6.0-8.0 inches. Given this information, both tire sizes can accommodate a rim of 6.0-7.5 inches in width.
Therefore, it might be possible to place a 225/50r17 tire on a rim that currently has a 215/55r17 tire, although it’s recommended to check with a tire professional before making any changes to verify fit and safety.
Our Observation
Based on our comparison, the 215/55r17 offers more ground clearance and a smoother ride due to its larger diameter and taller sidewall height. It’s potentially longer-lasting due to its lower RPM. On the other hand, the 225/50r17 provides improved traction due to a wider tread and sports a more aggressive look due to a smaller sidewall height. However, it may experience a shorter lifespan due to its higher RPM.
The best choice between these two tire sizes depends on the specific needs and preferences of the driver, the driving conditions, and the vehicle’s specifications. Therefore, when choosing tires, consider these factors and the tire’s impact on the vehicle’s speedometer reading, handling, and appearance.
