I'm looking into getting new wheels, and i started wondering if there was an advantage to bigger wheels. I have 18" wheels and the only advantages I can think of would be less sidewall exposed to possible punctures. Also, I dont understand why tires cost more for bigger wheels... isn't a 35" tire on an 18"wheel less rubber than a 35" tire on a 15" wheel? why am I paying more for the tire on an 18" wheel???

 

Um. If you decide to go offroad you will want more sidewall. The more the better. I don't think there is anything beneficiary to having bigger rims besides the look.

 

From the FAQs page:

Q: Is there any advantages to running a larger rim size vs. a smaller size?
A: Yes, a larger rim size will reduce tire sidewall flexing and this will provide better handling on pavement. On the trail, less sidewall flex can also help to make your Jeep feel more stable on off camber situations.

 

Takes more time and different technology to make the bigger rim tire I work at Firestone lol

 

So i guess that there are advantages to both 18" rim tires and 15" rim tires. I hear that with smaller rim size you have a bigger footprint when airing down, thus providing better traction in offroad situations. Im just gonna get me a set of 16" rims when I'm ready for new tires, I think 16" is a good medium, not too small, not too expensive

 

On the road a larger rim is advantageous however it is not off road IMHO. Most rims are aluminum and do not take kindly to trail abuse when the tire is air down. Wheels can take hard hits and the tire is the protection for the rim as well as part of your suspension off road and as mentioned earlier a bigger footprint means more traction. 18in tires are more rare and a bit more flashy so they charge more for the tires and they come in less sizes. Simple supply and demand. I think 17s are the perfect medium and I have run 32s, 34s, and now 37's on them and they are perfect. If you are going to be in the 40" tire club than going larger would be advised....