Those who've increased the width of their tires - does the ride improve?

More contact area, so more likely to hit a bump, but more bump dispersion as well.

Seems like the noise level might be higher?

Outside of the "look", more traction on the road. Any other benefits?

 

Wider tires will do two things to your ride... well, three actually, but one is VERY minor.

1. Wider tires will give you better traction in dry weather, but... unless they are properly channeled, you are more likely to hydroplane in wet weather.

2. There is more unsprung weight, this will lower your acceleration rate slightly as unsprung weight is the biggest enemy of acceleration. (minor if you are not much wider than stock).


3. Wider tires will make your car tend to be guided by every bump and crack in the road. The wider the front tires, the more severe the tracking. You can compensate for this by simply paying attention.

Hope that helps.

 

Thanks Timelord!

What about the ride quality? Do they ride softer, firmer, about the same?

 

That would depend on whether you increased or decreased the sidewall. If you had a 255/35-19 and went to a 265/30-19, your sidewall is shorter, hence, less give in the tire making it firmer, but better cornering, due to less flex and vice versa for a taller profile tire.