When most people think about changing their tires, they picture how a new set will look—sharper, sportier, or beefier on the road. But here’s the truth: tire size affects far more than just aesthetics. From how smoothly you ride to how efficiently you burn fuel; the size of your tires plays a huge role in your driving experience.
Before making any changes, it’s important to understand how tire dimensions affect performance. A tire swap that looks good on paper—or on your neighbor’s truck—might not be the best fit for your own vehicle. And that’s where having the right knowledge (and the right team, like Burt Brothers) comes in handy.
What Does Tire Size Actually Mean?
At first glance, those numbers on your tire sidewall might seem like a secret code—but once you know how to read them, they tell you everything you need to know.
Take 225/45R17, for example:
- 225: The tire width in millimeters.
- 45: The aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of the width).
- R17: The tire is a radial, and it fits a 17-inch wheel.
Manufacturers carefully choose tire sizes for a balance of performance, comfort, and safety. This is called the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) recommendation. While aftermarket upgrades are common, straying too far from OEM specs can impact how your vehicle handles—and even affect warranties and insurance.
Handling & Stability: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Wider tires can feel like an instant upgrade. More width generally means better cornering and grip, especially for performance vehicles. You’ll feel the difference in sharper turns and stronger traction.
But bigger isn’t always better. Trade-offs include:
- Increased road noise – Wider tires can generate a louder hum at highway speeds.
- Reduced maneuverability – Larger tires can make your steering feel heavier.
- Suspension changes – Altering tire size can change how your suspension system responds.
At Burt Brothers, we’ve seen plenty of drivers get excited about going wider, only to realize later that their daily commute feels rougher. Our technicians often help customers weigh whether they want “weekend performance” or “everyday comfort.”
Ride Comfort: The Role of Sidewall Height
That sleek, low-profile look—thin sidewalls wrapped around oversized rims—definitely turns heads. But those smaller sidewalls don’t absorb bumps like standard tires do.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Low-profile tires – Sharper handling, sportier look, but less cushioning over potholes and cracks.
- Taller sidewalls – Softer ride, better shock absorption, but less sporty handling.
For daily drivers and family vehicles, a balanced tire profile is usually best. At Burt Brothers, we often recommend sticking close to OEM profiles for comfort, unless the vehicle is specifically performance oriented. If you’re spending a lot of time on Utah’s highways and canyons, you’ll definitely feel the difference between comfort-focused and performance-focused tires.
Fuel Efficiency: Rolling Resistance & Weight
Tire size also plays a direct role in how much fuel you burn. Larger tires tend to be heavier and create more rolling resistance, which can lower your miles per gallon. Smaller or narrower tires, on the other hand, reduce friction and can improve fuel economy.
But it’s not just size—tread design and rubber compounds matter too. All-season tires, eco-friendly tires, and performance tires all interact with the road differently.
If you’re driving long distances, downsizing slightly or choosing a tire with low rolling resistance might save you money in the long run. Burt Brothers carries a wide selection of fuel-efficient options and can recommend the best balance between savings and performance.
Safety Implications: Braking Distance & Traction
When it comes to safety, tire size has a major impact on how your vehicle responds in emergencies.
- Stopping power: Larger, wider tires often improve dry traction, which can shorten braking distances.
- Hydroplaning risk: Wider tires may actually increase the chance of hydroplaning in heavy rain, since they have more surface area to lift off water.
- Seasonal changes: Narrower tires often perform better in snow, while wider ones excel in dry conditions.
Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial across all sizes—underinflation increases wear, reduces fuel efficiency, and can even cause blowouts. At Burt Brothers, we remind our customers that even the perfect tire size won’t perform properly if it isn’t inflated correctly.
When to Upgrade or Downsize Your Tires
So when does it make sense to change your tire size? Common reasons include:
- Aesthetics – Bigger rims and low profiles for a custom look.
- Performance – Wider tires for track days or spirited canyon driving.
- Clearance – Off-roaders often upsize for more ground clearance.
But there are risks. Deviating too far from OEM specs can throw off your speedometer readings, stress your suspension, and even affect your transmission. Tire size calculators and professional consultations (like the free ones at Burt Brothers) are the best way to make sure you’re making a safe, effective choice.
Legal & Warranty Considerations
Changing tire size isn’t just a mechanical decision—it can have legal and warranty implications.
- Warranty: Some manufacturers may void parts of your warranty if tire modifications affect related systems.
- Insurance: In the event of an accident, non-standard tire sizes could create disputes with your insurance provider.
- DOT compliance: Tires must meet Department of Transportation regulations for safety.
- Speedometer calibration: Larger or smaller tires can throw off your readings, which may need recalibration.
The experts at Burt Brothers know how to navigate these concerns. They’ll let you know if your new tire choice affects compliance or if adjustments are needed to keep everything safe and legal.
Conclusion: Choose Tire Size with Purpose
Tire size isn’t just a cosmetic choice—it’s a key factor in how your vehicle handles, rides, consumes fuel, and keeps you safe. Bigger tires can give you sharper handling and bold looks, while smaller or OEM-spec tires often deliver better comfort and fuel economy.
At the end of the day, the “right” tire size depends on your driving style, priorities, and vehicle type. The best advice? Balance style with practicality.
If you’re considering changing tire sizes, don’t do it alone. Tools like online tire calculators are helpful, but nothing beats professional advice. At Burt Brothers Tire & Service, our team takes the time to understand your goals and match you with the best tires for your vehicle. Whether you want a sportier feel, better fuel efficiency, or a smoother ride for your family, we’ve got you covered.
Stop by your local Burt Brothers today—or schedule an appointment online—to make sure your next tire decision is the right one for performance, comfort, and safety.
