Tires - height versus width

[Donstar]

My 2000 Silverado came with 235 wide tires, my 2009 Sierra came with 245 wide tires and my 2015 came with 255 wide tires. For me, a 255 (or 265) wide tire is plenty wide enough for looks and traction. I am not excited about going wider and paying for the additional rolling resistance. I just realized that I can get my desired tire with an aspect ratio of 75 and width of 255. A stock 255/70r17 tire is 31.1 inches high. A similar tire with an aspect of 75% is 32.1 inches tall. This would give a similar profile as if I went to 285/65r17 but not as much rubber hitting the road. I am wondering if any forum members have made a similar change or if any of you can see a problem with going to a 75% aspect ratio.

[LongrangeLauber]

A lot of k2 owners have gone from a 275/55r20 to a 275/60r20, so same width just taller sidewall. The one is 32.1" the other is 33", I lost an mpg or two but that is bc they were heavier. Then I tuned the truck and I'm doing better than stock.

[SlavO]

A lot of k2 owners have gone from a 275/55r20 to a 275/60r20, so same width just taller sidewall. The one is 32.1" the other is 33", I lost an mpg or two but that is bc they were heavier. Then I tuned the truck and I'm doing better than stock.

My 275/55/20. Where almost 30 1/2" on the rim. The 275/60/20 on my rim are 32 1/4" the specs say they're 33" i wish they where right

[Donstar]

A lot of k2 owners have gone from a 275/55r20 to a 275/60r20, so same width just taller sidewall. The one is 32.1" the other is 33", I lost an mpg or two but that is bc they were heavier. Then I tuned the truck and I'm doing better than stock.

Thanks. There is still a lot less sidewall height on the 275/60r20 than a 255/75r17. However, as I think you are suggesting, the difference for me from 70 -75% may not be that noticeable.

[LongrangeLauber]

Thanks. There is still a lot less sidewall height on the 275/60r20 than a 255/75r17. However, as I think you are suggesting, the difference for me from 70 -75% may not be that noticeable.

Less sidewall height, yes, but depending on the specs could be the same overall height. It's noticeable when I tow, I get less towing mpg with the 33's compared to the stock height tires

[SlavO]

Cause of weight of tire is a lot more. And there not 33's lol

[LongrangeLauber]

Actual height on vehicle vs. Measured spec height are always going to be different. They swell to around 33 going down the road.

 

And I also wasn't tuned for the taller tire, so it threw the numbers off a bit

[Donstar]

We know that very similar wheel heights can be achieved whether you have a 17, 18 or 20 inch rim. The smaller the rim, the higher the sidewall of tire is needed. The smaller the sidewall, the firmer the ride and conversely the higher the sidewall the "softer" the ride. I like a comfortable ride but I don't like sluggish handling characteristics. I wonder if high sidewalls on a comparatively narrow tire will feel less responsive when cornering and maneuvering through traffic. I know it is a truck and not a sports car but I don't want to make things more awkward!