225/50/16 or 225/45/16 tires ? Surprising differences...

[Kinesthesia]

In an earlier post, I stated that I planned to buy Yokohama AVS ES100 225/50/16. Well, I've been pouring over the dimensional data I downloaded from Yokohama and I noticed something strange (to me anyway).

In comparing 225/50/16's and 225/45/16's, I see that the overall width is the same as I would expect and the diameter is greater as I would expect. However the *tread* width is .4 inches greater on the 45's and the recommended wheel width is 7.5 compared to 7 inches for the 50's.

First I don't understand this... but regardless it makes me wonder if I should lean towards the 45's for the additional tread width (roughly 4% greater).

Also while the sidewall will be shorter with obvious results (greater roll resistance but harsher ride), the diameter will be closer to stock. Using the same tires for comparison, my 195/60/15's are 24.2 inches in diameter and the "optional" 205/60/15's are 24.7 inches. The 225/50/16's are 25 inches in diameter while the 45's are 24 inches.

Other than calculations for speedometer is there any other benefit to a greater or lesser tire diameter ?

Any thoughts on any of this would be appreciated. I sent email to Yokohama but they have no responded.

Thanks.

[Q45tech]

You buy tires by loaded rolling radius and load rating index [the load capacity of tire]. The higher the load rating the more safety reseve the tire has so the more heat abuse it can take.

Tread width is not as important as most think as the contact patch is always the same size based on weight and inflation.

Wide patch means it is less deep but the square inches are the same at the same psi.

[Kinesthesia]

Maximum Load at Cold Inflation Pressure:

225/45/16: 1389@50psi225/50/16: 1389@44psi

I'm just guessing but that makes the 50's better ?

Any comments on diameter ?