Tire Size 225/65r16 vs 225/60r16
The primary difference between the 225/65R16 and 225/60R16 tire sizes is their sidewall height. This results in an overall larger diameter and circumference for the 225/65R16, affecting the number of revolutions per mile and the ride quality.
| / | R |
| / | R |
| Parameter | 235/35 R18 | 205/40 R18 | Differ. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Height | |||
| Section Width | |||
| Circumference | |||
| Sidewall Height | |||
| Revolutions | |||
| Rim Size |
Overall Diameter
The overall diameter of a tire is the total height from the base of the tire to the top. Our comparison reveals a 3.2% decrease in the diameter when switching from a 225/65r16 tire (27.52 inches) to a 225/60r16 (26.63 inches). This change decreases ground clearance, which may lead to vehicle scraping or damage when traversing obstacles or rough terrain.
Conversely, a larger diameter can provide greater ground clearance, which benefits off-road driving. However, remember that an increased tire height typically results in a lower speedometer reading, while decreased height increases the speedometer reading.
Tire Width
In our comparison, both tire sizes have an identical width of 8.86 inches. The width of a tire can greatly influence traction.
Generally, a wider tread width improves traction, offering more grip during acceleration, braking, and cornering due to a larger contact patch. However, wider tires can produce more road noise and potentially increase fuel consumption.
Circumference
The 225/65r16 tire has a larger circumference (86.44 inches) compared to the 225/60r16 tire (83.66 inches), showing a 3.2% decrease in size.
This difference will affect your vehicle’s speedometer readings. A larger circumference will yield lower speedometer readings, while a smaller one will result in higher readings.
Sidewall Height
The 225/65r16 tire has a taller sidewall (5.76 inches) compared to the 225/60r16 tire (5.31 inches), indicating a 7.7% decrease. A taller sidewall can act as a shock absorber, providing a smoother ride by absorbing more bumps and road irregularities.
Additionally, a taller sidewall can increase traction on snowy or icy roads. On the other hand, a smaller sidewall can lead to a harsher ride due to less cushioning but can also lend a sportier look to your vehicle.
Revolutions Per Mile
RPM is an important factor as it can influence the tire’s lifespan. The 225/65r16 tire has fewer revolutions per mile (732.97 RPM) than the 225/60r16 tire (757.35 RPM), indicating a 3.3% increase.
Higher RPM typically results in more tire wear due to increased friction with the road, leading to a shorter lifespan. Conversely, fewer RPM means the tire covers less distance per rotation, potentially extending its lifespan.
Rim Size
The 225/65r16 and 225/60r16 tires fit a 16-inch rim size and have a rim width range between 6.0 and 8.0 inches. Larger rims are often associated with a sportier appearance, while smaller rims can convey a more classic or conservative look.
How much taller is a 225/65r16 tire than a 225/60r16?
The height of a 225/65r16 tire is 27.52 inches (698.9 mm), while the height of a 225/60r16 tire is 26.63 inches (676.4 mm). This indicates that the 225/65r16 tire is approximately 0.89 inches or 22.5 mm taller than the 225/60r16 tire.
How much wider is a 225/65r16 tire than a 225/60r16?
Both the 225/65r16 and 225/60r16 tires have the same width of 8.86 inches (225 mm). Therefore, there is no difference in width between these two tire sizes.
Can I use 225/65r16 instead of 225/60r16?
The overall diameter of a 225/65r16 tire is 27.52 inches (698.9 mm), whereas a 225/60r16 tire has an overall diameter of 26.63 inches (676.4 mm).
The difference between these two tire sizes comes to around 0.89 inches or 22.5 mm, which is about 3.2%. Since this is more than the recommended 3% difference, it may not be advisable to use a 225/65r16 tire instead of a 225/60r16 tire.
Can I put a 225/65r16 on a 225/60r16?
Given the rim width range for both the 225/65r16 and 225/60r16 tires is 6.0-8.0″, it appears that you could fit a 225/65r16 tire on the same rim as a 225/60r16 tire.
Our Observation
Consider your driving conditions and style when choosing between the 225/65r16 and the 225/60r16 tires. If you often drive on rough roads or off-road, you might prefer the former for its taller sidewalls and larger diameter providing more ground clearance.
However, if you mostly drive on highways or city roads and prefer a sportier look, the latter might be more suitable with its smaller diameter and shorter sidewall. Remember, keeping the diameter within a 3% difference from the factory-recommended tires is generally recommended to maintain optimum vehicle performance.
Changing tire sizes can affect several aspects of your vehicle’s performance, including handling, comfort, fuel economy, and the speedometer’s accuracy. Therefore, always make an informed decision considering all the factors discussed in this article.
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.
