Can I Upsize My Honda Civic Tyres from 215/55/R16 to 215/50/R17? What You Should Know

When considering an upgrade for your Honda Civic tyres, you might explore the possibility of increasing the tyre's aspect ratio and wheel diameter to 215/50/R17 from the original 215/55/R16. This guide will explore the feasibility, potential benefits, and downsides of such an upgrade.

The Basics of Tyre Upgrading

Upgrading from 215/55/R16 to 215/50/R17 involves changing the tyre's aspect ratio and wheel diameter, but not altering the tyre width. Let's break down the implications:

The 5 of 215 mm in the 215/55/R16 tyre represents the aspect ratio, which is 55%. This means the tyre's sidewall height is 55% of the tyre's width (215 mm). When changing to 50%, the sidewall height reduces to 50% of 215 mm, or 107.5 mm.

So, when you double the sidewall height, you lose 10.75 mm from each side, resulting in a total loss of 21.5 mm. This loss translates to:

Overall gain of 0.16 inches (approximately 4.06 mm) in tyre diameter. A 0.5% increase in diameter.

Despite the slight increase in size, the significant change is in the tyre's aspect ratio, which affects ride quality and handling. The stiffer ride of the lower-profile tyre might be noticeable, but the speedometer reading will remain the same.

What to Expect After the Upgrade

While the upgrade from 215/55/R16 to 215/50/R17 isn't cost-free, if you can afford it, it's certainly possible. However, a comprehensive upgrade is required:

You will need to purchase new tyres (215/50/R17). You will also need to buy new wheels (17-inch rims).

All these components must be matched to ensure proper fitment and balance. Any garage or tyre shop can accommodate this upgrade, although it will be more expensive than simply replacing worn tyres or rims.

Impact on Handling and Appearance

The handling of the vehicle will largely remain the same, but there might be subtle differences. The greater stiffness and responsiveness of the 215/50/R17 tyres can improve handling, especially during turns. The overall ride quality, however, might be harsher, especially if you stick with the same curing compound and sidewall rubber as the original tyres.

Did You Know? Honda Specified Fitment

For optimal performance and safety, Honda highly recommends sticking to their specifications. If you look at Honda-spec tyres, a 215/50R17 is typically the correct size for a 17-inch tyre on a Honda Civic.

Final Considerations

While it's possible to upsize your Honda Civic's tyres, it involves more than just swapping the tyred. You'll need to buy new tyres and wheels, which can be a considerable investment. Additionally, you need to check for clearance in the wheel wells, especially in the front, and ensure proper fitment to avoid any issues.

To maintain the same tire/wheel diameter, it is recommended to use 225/50/R17 tyres. However, it's crucial to verify the clearance for the new tyres and rims to avoid fitting problems.

Remember, the decision to upsize is a balanced one between aesthetics, handling, and cost. Consider your driving style and the importance of these factors before making a decision.

Looking for a more detailed guide on tyre and rim fitment? Check out our Tyre Sizing and Clearance Guides.