Tire Size 225/55r17 vs 225/60r17
The main difference between tire sizes 225/55R17 and 225/60R17 is in their sidewall height. The 225/60R17 has a taller sidewall, measuring 5.31 inches compared to 4.87 inches on the 225/55R17. This 9.1% difference in sidewall height impacts various performance characteristics.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Fitment Guide
Both tires have the same width, so fitment is not an issue. The 225/60R17 is 3.3% larger in overall diameter, which is within the 3% replacement guideline. No modifications are needed to fit either tire size.
Ground Clearance
The taller 225/60R17 provides 0.44 more inches of ground clearance. This can help prevent scrapes and damage when driving over obstacles or rough terrain.
However, the larger diameter also causes the speedometer to read lower than the actual vehicle speed.
Gas Mileage
With less sidewall flex, the 225/55R17 should offer slightly better fuel efficiency. The shorter sidewall results in less rolling resistance. However, the difference is minor, and both sizes deliver good gas mileage.
Ride Comfort
The 225/60R17’s extra sidewall cushioning absorbs more road impacts, providing a smoother ride over uneven pavement. Due to its stiffer sidewall construction, the 225/55R17 transmits more vibration into the cabin.
Aesthetics
Visually, the 225/60R17 has a “stretched” look with its taller sidewall, which some prefer on trucks and SUVs. The 225/55R17 appears more low-profile, but both offer attractive styling.
Handling & Stability
The 225/55R17 provides sharper handling and quicker response on pavement. The flexible sidewall on the 225/60R17 reduces handling precision slightly but offers excellent overall stability.
Noise & Vibration
More road noise is transmitted into the cabin with the 225/55R17’s shorter sidewall. The 225/60R17 runs quieter thanks to its extra cushioning absorbing noise. However, both are relatively quiet.
Durability & Wear
The 225/55R17 should exhibit slightly more even tread wear over time. The taller 225/60R17 puts more stress on suspension components, but both are durable options.
Adverse Conditions
Both sizes perform well overall in rain, snow, and off-road use. The extra ground clearance of the 225/60R17 is an advantage in deep snow or over obstacles.
Speedometer Reading
Due to its larger diameter, the 225/60R17 causes the speedometer to read 3.2% lower than the actual vehicle speed. At 20 mph actual speed, the speedometer reads 20.66 mph with the 225/55R17 but only 20 mph with the 225/60R17.
Can I use 225/60r17 instead of 225/55r17?
The overall diameter of a 225/60r17 tire is 27.63 inches, whereas the 225/55r17 tire has an overall diameter of 26.74 inches. The difference between these two tire sizes is approximately 0.89 inches or about 3.2%.
This difference is slightly over the recommended 3% difference, making using a 225/60r17 tire instead of a 225/55r17 marginally risky.
Can I put a 225/60r17 on a 225/55r17?
The 225/60r17 and 225/55r17 tires can be fitted on a rim width ranging from 6.0 to 8.0 inches. Considering the rim width, the 225/60r17 tire could be installed on a rim with a 225/55r17 tire.
225/55r17 vs 225/60r17
The table compares the features of tire sizes 225/60R17 and 225/55R17, along with the percentage difference between them.
Our Observation
The 225/55R17 offers better handling and fuel efficiency thanks to its shorter, stiffer sidewall construction. It’s the best choice for performance driving.
Meanwhile, the 225/60R17 provides greater ground clearance and a smoother ride from its taller sidewall, making it ideal for trucks, SUVs, and off-road use.
Overall, the 225/60R17 is the more versatile size, combining decent on-road manners with improved off-road clearance. We recommend the 225/60R17 as the best-balanced size for most drivers for various conditions.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.
