Wheels 17in or 18in??

[Dadstoy]

New to the 4Runner world, and man I love it! Just wanted to know why it seems that everyone goes with the 17in wheels?
Does it make that much of a difference when it comes to off roading? Because of a smaller sidewall? This is all new to me.
I'm getting ready to buy tires and rims soon. I wanted to get your input about this. Thanks!

 

[rclangelan]

I'm sure others here can shed more light on the subject than I can, but the smaller wheels have a few benefits for Off-Roading applications.

1. Smaller wheel = taller side wall: tire can flex more and soak up the terrain better

2. less likely to get nicked up on rocks

3. slightly cheaper in most applications


A lot of hardcore 4x4 guys use 15" rims. Maximum rubber, minimum metal.

 

[K.C.]

More tire options.

Some people run 265/65/18, 275/65/18 or 285/60/18 for offroading.

On the 4th Generation 17s, stock tires are...265/65/17 (31")

You can run...

265/70/17 (32")
285/70/17 (33")
even 315/70/17 (35") if you go towards that direction Source: the_josh

...on stock 17s

 

[Falls]

I must admit I do like the look of certain 18" wheels (not bling one's though)and have considered it myself.

If you doing the "general" type of trail riding/street driving the 18" will be fine , if your doing "hardcore" rock crawling then you would def want more rubber / less metal.

17's are a much cheaper option. Ride smoother even on rough roads .

my .02