which size tires for 16" rims?

[Nimble]

Originally Posted by cleong

Just to add on my thoughts:

Wouldn't both the 205/45 and 205/50 have essentially the same contact patch? Since the threadstarter is concerned about noise, both should be quite similar.

Unless I am missing something, a difference in sidewall height (which is what it really is between the two choices) would change the comfort. A smaller sidewall makes the ride a little harsher because there is less sidewall to cushion it.

In order to reduce noise don't you have to reduce the contact patch, ie, go to a tire with a narrower profile width?

Yes, they would have a very similar contact patch, the 45 aspect ratio having the least rollover in turns. The 45 tire woud have roughly a tenth of a inch wider contact patch.