I'm currently running Vredestein Ultrac 205/ 50 / 17's on standard spider wheels, and have been very happy with them, although they now need replacing, after about 17k miles.

I've been offered Sportrac 3's for £58 per corner fitted (trade contact / mate's rates ) BUT only available at that price in 215 / 45 / 17's - I think they may have over ordered or had a cancellation or something similar.

I know about the slight change in overal diameter ( about 1.8%) and the speedo reading 68.5 @ 70 mph - I can live with that - and mate is adamant they will fit with no problems and plenty of clearance.

My question is, will the change in width / profile have any adverse effect on the handling or roadholding?

i would go for the 225/45/17's mate they are great size for the octy

and cheap as well

225/45 17 is the correct size, 215/45 will introduce a speedo error. A small error, but an error none the less. I ran 225s as soon as I changed them from the oem tyres.

I was unsure when changing from stock, but I moved to 225/45s at the beginning of the year and haven't looked back. You save a fortune too.

On the Vredestein front you want to switch from Ultracs to Sportracs? I thought the Sessanta was THE Vred tyre?

Thanks guys.

In the end I turned them down, and went for 225 / 45 Ultrac's

Improvement is unbelievable - the 205 / 50 Ultracs were still good, although well worn, but on the 225's she just feels "planted"

Ride is quieter as well, but that may just be because they are freshly balanced and unworn.