Plus Sizing refers to replacing the Original Equipment tire size with a wider tire, and most often, a larger diameter wheel, while maintaining the Original Equipment Tire’s Overall Tire Diameter.
Plus Sizing dates back several decades. The reason for Plus Sizing is simple: Performance. The original Plus Size applications were developed for professional racing. Drag racers, Sprint Cars and Stock Cars all felt the limitation of the narrow OE conventional tires. The original Plus Size began with a tire of similar Overall Diameter and Wheel Diameter as the OE tire, but using a wider section width and footprint. This wider footprint resulted in better launching traction, improved cornering traction, and with the correct tread compound, better braking capability.
The idea of plus sizing became mainstream in the early 80's in grass roots Autocross. These racers found that times improved dramatically with the use of a wider tire. The results improved even more with the installation of wheels with a larger diameter and tires with a wider footprint, while maintaining the OE tire’s Overall Diameter. Companies like Toyo and Enkei recognized this trend early on and continue to be leaders in Plus Sizing to this day.
Plus Sizing is done to improve performance and to enhance style. Almost every vehicle on the road can take advantage of Plus Sizing. So if you have ever thought of putting 17's on your 66 Mustang, 19's on your Scion or 22's on your Escalade - Les Schwab has the experts to make sure everything works right.
Come in, let us show you what we can do for your ride.
Below are actual photos of the tire and wheel combo while plus sizing up one step from the next. |
