Custom Wheels for Honda Civic Ek9 - Sizes, Brands and Performance Upgrades

An Introduction to ek9 Wheels

In the world of Honda tuning and modification, ek9 wheels are a popular upgrade choice. Ek9 refers to the sixth generation Honda Civic that was produced between 1996 and 2000. This Civic is well-known among enthusiasts and is considered one of the best platforms for performance upgrades and customization.

The ek9 Civic has a lightweight and rigid chassis, making it an ideal candidate for lowering, fitting wider wheels and performance tires. The stock ek9 wheels are relatively small, with 15 inch wheels being fitted to the majority of models. This leaves a lot of room for upgrading to larger diameter wheels and lower profile tires.

Benefits of Larger ek9 Wheels

There are a few key benefits to upgrading to larger diameter ek9 wheels:

• Improved handling and grip - Wider wheels paired with lower profile performance tires provide more contact patch with the road, increasing mechanical grip.
• Better braking - Larger diameter wheels allow for bigger brake rotors to be fitted, improving stopping power.
• Customization - Aftermarket wheels open up many options for personalization with different designs and finishes.
• Improved stance - Lowering the car and adding larger wheels fills out the wheel arches and gives the car a more aggressive lowered stance.

Popular Sizes for ek9 Wheels

Some popular upgraded wheel sizes for ek9 Civics are:

• 16 inch - A modest 1 inch increase that allows for slightly lower profile tires.
• 17 inch - A common choice that provides a good performance upgrade without being too large.
• 18 inch - Large enough for very low profile rubber while not looking too oversized on the car.
• 19 inch - At the upper limit of feasible sizes before running into clearance issues.

When upgrading wheel diameter, care must be taken to ensure there is adequate clearance around brakes, suspension and wheel arches. Spacers may be required in some cases to provide clearance for larger wheels.

Wheel Width Considerations

Along with diameter, upgrading the width of ek9 wheels is also popular. Wider wheels allow for fitting wider tires that provide more contact patch and grip.

Some common upgraded widths are:

• 7.5" wide - A moderate upgrade that fits 205 or 225 width tires.
• 8" wide - Allows for 235 width tires.
• 9" wide - Fits wider 245 or 255 width tires for maximum grip.

The stock ek9 wheels are very narrow by today's standards, typically 6" wide. So upgrading to a wider aftermarket wheel makes a dramatic difference.

Wheel Offset & Suspension Considerations

Along with diameters and widths, wheel offset also needs consideration when upgrading ek9 wheels. Offset determines how far in or out the wheels sit relative to the wheel arches.

Some upgrades like lowering your ek9 on coilover suspension can allow fitting more aggressive offsets. This pulls the wheels outward for a flush fitment with the fenders. Care needs to be taken not to run into clearance issues and steering interference.

Spacers are a popular, cost effective way to adjust offset. But too high an offset can put extra strain on wheel bearings.

Lightweight Wheel Materials

Reducing unsprung weight with lightweight ek9 wheels has handling benefits. Some popular lightweight wheel materials are:

• Forged Aluminum - Strong and relatively affordable but not ultra lightweight.
• Cast Aluminum - Cheaper but not as strong as forged.
• Magnesium - Very strong and light but expensive.
• Carbon Fiber - The lightest and strongest but very expensive.

Lightweight wheels can help reduce overall vehicle weight. But solid engineering is also required to maintain strength.

Brands for High Performance ek9 Wheels

Some top brands for high performance aftermarket ek9 wheels include:

• Enkei - Japanese brand making lightweight, motorsport derived wheels.
• Rays Engineering - Another respected Japanese wheelmaker, innovators in forged alloy.
• Volk Racing - Focus on lightweight, extremely strong designs.
• Work Wheels - Offer a wide range of concave and deeply dish designs.
• Advance Wheels - Affordable forged wheels made in Japan.

Sticking with a reputable brand ensures quality construction and materials for the demands of performance driving.

Considering a Wheel & Tire Package

It often makes sense to upgrade ek9 wheels and tires together as a package. Some things to look for include:

• Wheel width accommodating optimal tire sizes.
• Lower profile tires to match upgraded wheel diameter.
• Performance tire compounds for grip.
• Even wear ratings across the axle.
• Balancing wheels with tires before fitting.

Consulting an experienced supplier can help get the right wheel and tire package dialed in for your specific ek9 and its intended use.

In Closing

Upgrading to larger diameter, wider ek9 wheels opens up many new performance possibilities. Just be sure to take care in selecting sizes and offsets that work with your vehicle's specifications and suspension setup. With the right wheel and tire package, you can take your ek9 project to the next level both in terms of looks and performance capability. Consult knowledgeable suppliers and do your research to get it right.

FAQs

What is the stock ek9 wheel size?

The stock wheel size on most ek9 Civics is 15 inches in diameter and typically 6 inches wide.

What are the most popular sizes for upgrading ek9 wheels?

Popular upgraded diameters are 16, 17, 18 and sometimes 19 inches. Widened widths are typically in the 7.5 to 9 inch range.

What wheel offset should I run?

This depends on your suspension and desired fitment. Lower offsets in the +35 to +45 range pull the wheels out flush with the fenders. Take care not to rub or interfere with steering.

What brake upgrades are needed with larger ek9 wheels?

Larger diameter wheels allow fitting larger brake rotors. Upgrades like 2-piston calipers and 312mm drilled/slotted rotors are popular.

Should I upgrade wheels and tires together?

It is highly recommended to upgrade wheels and tires as a balanced package for proper fitment and performance.