Tires for 18x8.5" rims

[21nemesis]

I am going to be in the market for 2 new tires. I currently have 225/35 tires on my rims, but they didn't provide much protection against road hazards, and I have since bent at least 1 rim. I am going to have them fixed and mounted with new tires. I am thinking of buying a pair of 215/40s. I like the look of the stretched tire, so I am going to go with no wider than a 225. What do you all think? I feel that the a sidewall height of 40 should be good for the potholes I encounter.

Also, I bought a pair of KYB GR-2 shocks for my rear 18x9.5" wheels, but they have blown. So, now I am thinking of getting the AGX since I have those in the front and like them. Are there any others that I should consider?

Thanks!

[simmode1]

I run 225/35 on my 16x8.5 without any problems. But if I were to change, yeah, I'd go with a 225/40. I think stretching a 215 on there just kinda defeats the purpose of what you're try to do though, IMO.

As far as the new shocks, since i've had my AGX's/S- Tech's, I've developed a severe allergic reaction to them and will never recommend them. But Tokico is treating me good and I've heard great things about Koni as well.

Good luck!