I know this is a bit of a weird question, but any help is appreciated.

I have a 2007 G35x with OEM tires of 225/55/17 V-Rated. I'm a fan of the BFGoodrich Traction T/A (had them on my Civic and they handled great w/o being ridic expensive).

The Traction T/A tire comes in both an H-rated and V-rated version. However, the V-rated version doesn't come in 225/55/17. It does come in 215/55/17 (which is the recommended size for a winter tire for my car). On the other hand, the H-rated version does come in 225/55/17.

So the question is, which of the following sounds better:

1. Keep with V-rated tires, but downgrade sizes to 215/55/17.
2. Downgrade to H-rated tires, but keep the size at 225/55/17.

It doesn't seem to be a big deal to go down in speed rating to me, but is handling really compromised? I'm not planning on going 100+ mph. Please offer any advice, suggestions, or warnings I should know about. Thanks.

I guess a third option would be to go with a different inexpensive tire like the Kumho Ecsta ASX which comes in the proper size and speed rating, but I don't have personal experience with.

 

Many times there is a significant difference between the wet braking ability of the same brand tire as you decline from V to H.

Reliability and durability is enhanced by upgrading to a higher than oem load rating. Also a higher load index tire will reduce slip angles which equates to better handling.

Cheap tires are inexpenively build with cheap weaker/heavier materials, so they degrade fast and don't maintain as new performance, every parameter sucks after 8,000 miles!

Everyone needs a cheap tire lesson, to burn the truth into their brain.