It's my understanding that for Stock class I can use DOT tires on OEM size rims. On my 1997 EX I have some cheap 14" steelies with hubcaps. They're due for new tires so I figure I'll get new wheels as well, but I want to start autocrossing and don't want to put myself in some crazy class.
Does anyone know what the OEM options were for this year so that I can buy the same size/offset and keep the car in the Stock class? There just has to have been some non steel wheel option for a 97' EX, preferably some 15" factory option. I don't even know what size these steelies are besides being 14's (what offset, width?)...
Thanks guys,
-d
I'm going to reply to myself because I think I've found the answer:
1997 EX's were offered with only the 14" steelies, so I'm stuck at 14x5 with a 1/4 inch +/- in offset. The aftermarket selection in 14x5 is horribly limited. You'd have to use Volk TE37's or something ($$$). Which means, other than steelies, my next best bet is some old CRX Si 4 Hole's, they came in 14x5 (even 13x5 for really old ones), and weigh in slightly under the steelies at about 14lbs (I think steel is 18).
225/50/14 works on these... must be a pain to mount.
Probably my new wheels... lol:
The wheel to use for a 96-00 Civic EX is the 14" alloy from the 96-00 Civic HX. It's the same diameter, width, and offset.. and only weighs about 11 lbs. For a stock Honda wheel that sells for cheap on most forums, you absolutely cannot beat that.
The tire to have would definitely be the 225/50-14 V710. If you're just starting out, I would get the 195/60-15 Azenis. They're an absolute steal at $59 each and will help you learn the car better. Race tires can hide a lot of mistakes when learning a car.
You will also NEED Koni Yellows to help tune the car a little better. Your biggest enemy on course (other than understeer of course) will be fighting the wheel and its horrible steering ratio. A four point harness that you just just for autocross would be a great investment to help you stay planted to the seat rather than hanging onto the wheel mid-corner.
Keep us updated! I've always wanted to get some opinions on the EJ8 in HS. Several people are campaigning the 01-05 and 06+ models, but the double wishboned older brothers don't get quite so much love.
PS: I've had 245 Hankook race tires on a 6.5" wheel and witnessed several sets of 225s on 5.5" wheels. You'll need a friend in the tire mounting business, as most shops will refuse to mount a combination like that
Try to find some oem integra meshies.. noice! they are they lightest factory alloy ive felt and look good.. light weight = good
Try to find some oem integra meshies.. noice! they are they lightest factory alloy ive felt and look good.. light weight = good
The LS mesh wheels are 15x6, illegal for stock class, and actually pretty heavy (~15 lbs).
OP, stick with the HX wheels
^^^ The man knows what he is talking about
