I'm looking for either 17x7 or 17x7.5 rims for my xB... I had a question about the handling...

If you have a stock xB (stock suspension, stock steelies, etc) and you upgrade to 17x7 or 17x7.5 wheels, does the xB handle the same as it does on the stock wheels? Does the handling get any better or worse?

I am asking this because I'm wondering what else I would need to consider when I upgrade to bigger wheels. But if the handling changes on the xB for the worse, i'm going back to the stockers. The handling on a stock xB is killer and I do not want to make a mod that makes the xb simply look good but handly poorly...

Also, are there any other components other than the wheels + tires I may need? Spacers, etc - things of that nature?

I appreciate anyones input! Thank you in advance!
- sh00k

 

Well, the ride might get rougher, because you're on skinnier tires, but the handling should improve. Especially if you get quality high performance tires. The stock all-weather tires aren't made for high performance.

Spacers depend on the offset of the wheel you get. High offset wheels will not be flush. You don't really "need" a spacer, it's more for looks.

Me, I'm currently running Hotchkis stage 1 suspension and strut bar, on 205/45/17" Hankook Ventus K104 UHP (ultra high performance) tires. I can out corner a stock xB, but the ride is a lot more stiff.

If you just get a nice set a 17s on the stock springs, your car will ride just fine.

Good luck

-THE DON

 

no doubt that the 17 inch handles better, but it get rougher when u lowering it, leave ur car on stock height is a good idea, but jus that the "gap" will get to ya, i had my 17s for like 3 - 4 thousands miles n i changed it back to 15s

 

I have 18X8 and they handle great. Really awesome. I can drive in the rain at like 90mph and it feels really safe. It is bumpy though.

 

I have 17's on my box. It handles great, but the ride is rougher. I installed Koni rear shocks and that helped a lot.

 

Definitely handle better

 

good handling for sure!