If you had to pick the best size for a 16" drag radial (not brand specific), what size would you pick?

 

In my opinion:

Of the sizes of drag radials with the two manufacturers that I am aware of, the best size for a 16" rim is 255-50-16. The 255 is slightly wider than the 245 and the 50 series is the only one I am aware of for 16". If I had a "perfect size it would be around a 315 and it would be a 60 series which would have more sidewall.

The width of the rim is also a consideration. In a perfect scenario, the width of the rim would match the tread width of the tire which would allow a more consistent contact patch at launch.

 

I am talking about a 16" ZR1-style wheel, which is I believe an 8" wide wheel and just for kicks, let's say we were talking about BFG Drag Radials.

Does that change the equation? I did a search and it seems that people prefer a 245/50/16 but I wanted to get an exact number from the pros.

Thanks, keep the info coming...

 

Only 16" drag radials are BFG 255-50-16 and Nitto 245-50-16 Nitto. AS far as I know that's it.

 

Go w/ the bfg's unless you want to drive on the street w/ them a lot, then I'd say go w/ the nittos. BFG's will hook better (as far as I've seen) but nittos will last longer. Pick your poison .

 

Not trying to hijack your thread but I've got a quick question. Would going from a 275/40/17 to a 255/50/16 change shift points and have it banging off the rev limiter with a stock 3.23 gear? Or would it be fine? Thanks in advance. Brian.

 

I ran these calcs in the c5 forum tire calculator tool.

Tire A: 275/40 R 17
Width 10.83" (275.00mm)
Sidewall height 4.33" (110.00mm) Overall height 25.66" (651.80mm)
Circumference 80.62" (2047.69mm)

Tire B: 255/50 R 16
Width 10.04" (255.00mm)
Sidewall height 5.02" (127.50mm)
Overall height 26.04" (661.40mm)
Circumference 81.81" (2077.85mm)

There is a slight difference but it shouldn't mess anything up. If there is a problem, you can always set your wot shift points to go off your rpm values by just dropping your mph ones below that of the rpm you want to shift at. Check out a recent thread I made when I was trying to figure all this stuff out.
http://web.camaross.com/forums/showt...p;goto=newpost

 

That little bit of difference wouldn't hurt anything. I used to drive my GSCs to the track then put the ET streets on with no problems and that's about the same tire size difference.