I want to install my Non US spec STi 4-Pot calipers on the front so I needed a wider than stock (6.5") wheel. I was able to get these Superleggeras used. The wheels are very light 15.2# I understand. With the tire they weigh 39# VS the 38# for the stock wheel/tire combo. Not bad considering the wheel is larger. Going from the 60 to 50 series quickened the steering response and grip. But it also increased the road feel making for an increase in ride harshness. Not a lot but it's noticeable.
I used these lug nuts here -->Click me (http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3024)

Peaty 1/31/04



Update info from Frank Z. over at the Forester Owners Forum (http://www.subaruforester.org)

Stock XT Wheel = 19.0 lbs
Stock XT Tire = 19.6 lbs
Steel Spare Wheel = 24.4 lbs

Thanks Frank :)

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Compare:

Specification Sidewall Radius Diameter Circumference Revs/Mile Difference

215/60-16 5.1in 13.1in 26.2in 82.2in 771 0.0%
215/50-17 4.2in 12.7in 25.5in 80.0in 792 -2.6%

This tire size makes the speedo read about 2.5 MPH quicker than actual, these are the tires that came on the wheels. I will most likely go to 225 wide which will be a little closer to actual speed.

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On the car

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Finally got around to getting new tires for the wheels. I got some Falken Ziex ZE-512 from Discount Tire Direct. I went with the 225/50-17's these are closer to stock size and the speedo will be closer:

Specification - Sidewall - Radius - Diameter - Circumference - Revs/Mile - Difference *
215/60-16 - 5.1in - 13.1in - 26.2in - 82.2in - 771 - 0.0%
225/50-17 - 4.4in - 12.9in - 25.9in - 81.2in - 780 - -1.1%

*From the stock size of

When the speedo reads 60 MPH actual speed will be 59.3, better than the tires that came on the wheels. The Falken's received a good review from Consumer Reports as well as other Forester owners. I've only had them on a short time so I can't say anything about them other than they are very quiet. They are still a little squirmy because they are new. From what I understand it takes a little while for the tire mold release coating to wear off. I'll report back how they do. Now a few pics:

Peaty 11-13-04

Some pics installed on the Forester: