Lightweight wheels vs stock Sport 18s

[VarmintCong]

I got a 2019 Sport sedan as a loaner, and I noticed some differences in ride and handling which I attribute to my 17" OZ wheels (17 lbs). Could be the Pilot A/S 3+ tires but I think it's the wheels.

- the 2019 seemed to have a better ride, maybe a bit more comfortable. I would think the opposite from 18s, but maybe the heavy wheels dampen the ride?
- my 2017 Sport seems more nimble, ligth on its feet. I'd guess this is the weight. On quick cornering sometimes the 2019 seemed a little reluctant to turn-in, and I felt more tug in the steering.

Assuming there are no other differences I attribute this to the wheel weight.

PS Love the 2019 Sport sedan improvements over my car - the tweeters improve the sound, the Carplay is great, and i like the faux leather on the arm rest and above the cubby in the center. The digital dash I can't say I prefer over the analog.

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[PowerPerLiter]

Yes it would be noticeable with significant weight difference. Essentially the lighter wheel/tire combo has a similar effect of increasing spring rate or shock dampening slightly.

I noticed everything you described when I purchased my traklite's

 

[VarmintCong]

Yes it would be noticeable with significant weight difference. Essentially the lighter wheel/tire combo has a similar effect of increasing spring rate or shock dampening slightly.

I noticed everything you described when I purchased my traklite's

So you also found the heavier wheels gave a smoother/softer ride? It would explain why carmakers seem to prefer large, heavy wheels.

 

[VarmintCong]

I was surprised what a difference the two tweeters made.

I didn't want to give back my loaner! Even the CVT seemed nice.

 

[PowerPerLiter]

So you also found the heavier wheels gave a smoother/softer ride? It would explain why carmakers seem to prefer large, heavy wheels.

Yes that is what i concluded. Heavier cuts road resonance down as well

 

[VarmintCong]

Yes that is what i concluded. Heavier cuts road resonance down as well

Yes, i forgot to mention the 2019 Sport was quieter than my 2017!

I never would have guessed, good to know. I do like the nimble feel of lightweight 17s, but it's definitely a big tradeoff.

 

[Deezy]

Not sure how it compares to the suspension in your hatch, but the 2019 Sport sedan has different shocks, rear lower control arms, and a 0.5-mm thicker front stabilizer bar, compared to a base LX.
Also, you are comparing a hatch to a sedan, so it's bound to handle differently.

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