2009 Honda Ridgeline Tire Size Overview
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline is a versatile truck that combines the functionality of a pickup with the comfort of an SUV. One of the key aspects of maintaining your Ridgeline is ensuring that you have the right tire size for your specific trim. This not only affects performance but also safety and fuel efficiency. Let’s break down the tire sizes according to different trims and what that means for you as an owner.
Understanding Tire Sizes
Before diving into the specific sizes, it is essential to understand how tire sizes work. A tire size typically looks something like this: P245/65R17. Here’s what each part means:
- P: Indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.
- 245: This is the tire width in millimeters.
- 65: This is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire sidewall as a percentage of the width.
- R: Stands for radial construction.
- 17: This is the diameter of the wheel in inches.
Tire Sizes by Trim
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline comes in several trims, each with its own specifications. Here’s a breakdown of the tire sizes for each trim:
| Trim Level | Tire Size | Wheel Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| RT | P245/65R17 | 17 inches |
| RTX | P245/65R17 | 17 inches |
| Sport | P245/60R18 | 18 inches |
| RTL | P245/60R18 | 18 inches |
| RTL with Navigation | P245/60R18 | 18 inches |
RT and RTX Trims
Both the RT and RTX trims come equipped with P245/65R17 tires. These tires provide a good balance between comfort and capability, making them suitable for everyday driving as well as light off-road adventures.
Sport and RTL Trims
The Sport and RTL trims upgrade to P245/60R18 tires. This change offers a slightly lower profile, which can enhance handling and responsiveness. However, keep in mind that larger tires may impact ride comfort slightly, especially on rougher surfaces.
Why Tire Size Matters
Choosing the correct tire size is not just about aesthetics. Here’s why it matters:
- Handling: The right tire size can improve your truck’s handling characteristics, particularly during cornering.
- Fuel Efficiency: Incorrect tire sizes can lead to increased rolling resistance, which affects fuel economy.
- Safety: Proper tire sizes ensure that your vehicle’s braking system performs optimally, which is crucial for safety.
- Wear and Tear: Using the wrong size can lead to uneven tire wear, costing you more in the long run.
Make sure to check your owner’s manual or the tire placard located on the driver’s side door jamb for the manufacturer’s recommended tire size. This ensures that you are getting the best performance, safety, and longevity from your 2009 Honda Ridgeline.
Exploring the Smallest and Biggest Tire Sizes for the 2009 Honda Ridgeline
When it comes to the 2009 Honda Ridgeline, understanding the smallest and biggest tire sizes can make a significant difference in performance, comfort, and overall driving experience. Whether you’re looking to replace your stock tires or considering an upgrade, this guide will help you navigate the options based on owner feedback and forum discussions.
Smallest Tire Size
The smallest tire size for the 2009 Honda Ridgeline is P245/65R17. This size is standard for the RT and RTX trims. Owners who have stuck with this size often report a few key benefits:
- Comfort: The taller sidewall provides a smoother ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively.
- Fuel Efficiency: Smaller tires generally offer lower rolling resistance, which can contribute to better fuel economy.
- Cost-Effective: Replacement tires in this size tend to be more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for many owners.
Recommended Tires for Smallest Size
Based on feedback from various forums and owner reviews, here are some recommended tire options for the P245/65R17 size:
- Michelin LTX M/S2: Known for its durability and excellent wet traction, this tire is a favorite among Ridgeline owners.
- Goodyear Wrangler Fortitude HT: This tire offers a great balance of comfort and performance, making it suitable for both highway and light off-road use.
- Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus: Owners appreciate its quiet ride and long tread life, making it a solid choice for daily driving.
Biggest Tire Size
The biggest tire size available for the 2009 Honda Ridgeline is P245/60R18, which comes standard on the Sport and RTL trims. This size offers several advantages, especially for those looking for a more aggressive look and improved handling.
- Improved Handling: The lower profile of the tire enhances cornering stability and responsiveness.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many owners prefer the more aggressive stance that larger tires provide, enhancing the truck’s overall appearance.
- Better Traction: Larger tires often provide better grip, especially in off-road conditions or inclement weather.
Recommended Tires for Biggest Size
For those considering the P245/60R18 size, here are some tires that have garnered positive reviews from Ridgeline owners:
- Continental TerrainContact A/T: This all-terrain tire is praised for its versatility, offering excellent traction on various surfaces.
- Michelin Premier LTX: Owners love this tire for its exceptional wet weather performance and quiet ride.
- Firestone Destination LE3: Known for its durability and all-season capabilities, this tire is a popular choice among Ridgeline enthusiasts.
Considerations for Tire Upgrades
If you’re thinking about upgrading to a larger tire size, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Wheel Well Clearance: Make sure the larger tires fit within your wheel wells without rubbing against suspension components or the body.
- Speedometer Calibration: Changing tire sizes can affect your speedometer readings. You may need to recalibrate it to ensure accuracy.
- Impact on Fuel Economy: Larger tires can increase rolling resistance, which may lead to decreased fuel efficiency.
By understanding the smallest and biggest tire sizes available for the 2009 Honda Ridgeline, along with owner feedback on the best options, you can make an informed decision that suits your driving needs and preferences.