The second number in tire sizes is the aspect ratio in relation to the width (the first number) of the tire. If you're gonna go wider (from 195mm to 205mm) then that means the 55 (55% of the width of 205) means you will have a bigger sidewall. A bigger sidewall means an overall larger diameter tire and would not match (or be close to) your stock tire size.

So you would want to go 205 (which is 205mm) /50 (50% of 205) /15 (rim diameter).

 

Actually, I have been doing A LOT of thinking, and I have decided that I cannot get tires every year, I am not made of money.

My new/revised question is, What is the LONGEST LASTING PERFORMANCE TIRES for under $80 a piece?

The Azenis, ES100, and the Potenza's are out of the questions, there thread-life ratings on www.tire-rack.com does not even exceed 200, while the Kumho ECSTA 712 has a rating of over 300, and the AVID V4S has a rating of 500. What is the difference between the Kumho ECSTA 712s and the MX?

 

Treadwear rating varies from different manufacturers. But since you've come to a conclusion that you want a long lasting tire, how about the Falken Ziex 512's in 205/50/15. Try going to www.vulcantire.com or www.tires.com They are about less than 60/tire and they have a 360 treadwear rating.

 

The Kumhos are okay, they seem to be lasting longer than the old AVS intermediate that the ES 100 replaced, according to Fats. The yokohama tires were far superior in quality and grip, but you sacrifice wear with grip, in general

 

so 205/50 instead of 205/55?

 

yea 205/55 will mess up your speedometer and your handeling the second number the 50 or 55 in this case is the ratio of width toheight of the tire the smaller then number the lower profile so when u widen the tire u want to make that number smaller

 

My 205/50 Kumho 712's have lasted ~30k now, on -2.5+ degree camber as well.

My only complaints are they are wayyyyyy too loud when you get some miles on them, and they are absolutely undriveable in the snow. Other than that, wet and dry traction are solid.

Long life is a priority for me as well...Ill most likely give the ES100's a shot next time.