dedicated lapping wheels/tires

[i128]

So I started lapping this summer. Been out a couple times, I want to get a dedicated set of rims and tires just for that.

What should I look for? obviously the lighter the wheel the better, as well as the sticker tire is also better, but I feel like I'd be hitting the track 4-5 time a season, so would be happy if my tires survived 2 seasons.

1 ) Is it better to run a square or staggered set up on the track? ( im staggered right now 255/35/18 225/40/18)

2) Is there a disadvantage to running a smaller wheel/tire set up? (205/55/16- all around)

Thanks for your input !

[JRT128i]

I went with 17" x 8.5" d-force LTW5 wheels (16.2#/ea) and 225/45 Dunlop Star Spec tires (square). No spacers to mess with or rubbing anywhere, just bolt on and go. I have run 2 track weekends with them and love them.

[Focusedintntions]

Originally Posted by i128

So I started lapping this summer. Been out a couple times, I want to get a dedicated set of rims and tires just for that.

What should I look for? obviously the lighter the wheel the better, as well as the sticker tire is also better, but I feel like I'd be hitting the track 4-5 time a season, so would be happy if my tires survived 2 seasons.

1 ) Is it better to run a square or staggered set up on the track? ( im staggered right now 255/35/18 225/40/18)

2) Is there a disadvantage to running a smaller wheel/tire set up? (205/55/16- all around)

Thanks for your input !

to answer your questions.

1. Definately go a square setup as you'll be able to rotate the tires and maximize their life. essential with this car, especially up front.

2. The advantage of a smaller tire/wheel package is the cost of the tires will be cheapers. I'd say go with a square 17" setup. You should be able to get 245's easily around on all 4 corners with a 17" setup. I just bought ad08's for dedicated track use, although I'm running 18's b/c of the needed clearance for brakes.

[Expert@ApexWheels]

We have the 18x8.5" ET45 ARC-8s that would take a 245/40/18 street tire all around with a spacer in the rear to push the rear wheels out towards the fender. The EC-7s that will be here in about 4-6 weeks will also be available in that size.

If you are running a wider extreme summer tire or R-compound tire on track, you may have to go down to the 235/40/18 tire size. A squared setup would be beneficial for track use since you can rotate tires, and you also reduce understeer, which in turns neutralizes your car as well.