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I don't think it's any more of a wheel gap than 17s with lower profile tires. When I was shopping for winter tires I was thinking of getting something with a higher profile, but still R17, just to fill that gap, but decided not to screw around and instead leave room for snow and ice to accumulate.
 

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Discussion Starter · #6 ·
The guys at tire rack tell me its a 53mm offset. Hey, I have a good idea of what offset is but do you think you could give me a more solid description. Is it just how far in or out your wheel is from where it is mounted?
 

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vw151 said:
I have a good idea of what offset is but do you think you could give me a more solid description.
Offset is the measured distance between the hub mounting surface and the center line of the rim. A positive offset occurs when the hub mounting surface is on the street side (the side you see) of the center line of the rim. Most factory rims will have this type of offset. When the hub mounting surface is centered within the rim, it is known as a zero offset. If the hub mounting surface is on the brake side of the center line of the rim, it is considered a negative offset or "deep dish".

Here is a page that describes practically everything you need to know about wheel measurements. It is also a great source for aftermarket wheels.

Here is an illustration of how offset is measured:
 

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Discussion Starter · #8 ·
I see, so the higher the positive offset the more the wheel tucks inside the fender and the lower the offset the more the wheel will bulge out of the fenders. Not that this is everything that has to do with offset but from an asthetic point of view thats what it means. It seems this would also have an effect on suspension geometry to some extent. Yes?

Thanks for the info.
 

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That is more or less correct from an aesthetic perspective. Wheel offset will also play a part in suspension configuration as well as wheel camber. It is important to get the right size wheel for your vehicle otherwise handling can be adversely affected. I think the offset range that our Fast will accomodate is 42-55mm.
 
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