Originally Posted by
reno1967
Thanks guys for all of your input. I am very concerned about handling, but I just assumed that once the car is lowered, riding comfort is comprimized. I just don't want the tires to rub when a dip is hit. Depending on the dip, my tires currently rub even though the car still has stock suspension.
As far as the offset of the wheels, I wish I knew it. I bought the wheels from another Civic owner, so I assumed that the wheels would have the correct offset. They do not stick out beyond the fender wells.
Time to ditch those wheels, they're the wrong offset. If they rub now, you can't lower it without rubbing more
There are a variety of offsets that will "fit," but aren't ideal for lowering. I'm sorry, but I've never had anything larger than 15" wheels, so I can't tell you what offset would be ideal for 17's. But for 15's, generally anything from 38-45mm is OK.
Unless you're set on the look of 17's, a lightweight 15" or 16" wheel will have plenty stiff enough sidewall (50-series tires or lower), and less weight, which will help your handling, braking, and acceleration.