Anyone running with this setup....it seems like it would make the gearing pretty much the same as 4.77's and it might look clean too.....anyone got any pics and/or input....

I only know of one or two decent tires that size. The sidewall is extremely short.

I would go 235/40-17 for the reasons you state, but with even lighter wheels, more sidewall and much better tire selection.

yeah but i dont want 17's....i know they make alot of 225/35/18

Hi chancejat, check out my thread on 205/40R17s, I know you want to stick with 18s but there was some very good info on that thread, in particular about watching out for the load rating on the tires.

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=151108

Perhaps we should both go drive an '09 first to see how the new gearing feels. Also commented that mazda changed the 6th gear to compensate for the 4.77 rear end, so we would be revving higher on the freeway than an '09.

I have 235/35 ZR19's they are Goodyear Eagle F1 all seasons

heres a pic if it sort of helps:

http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q252/alucardrx8/DSC01360.jpg

I'll be getting this setup with Toyo Proxes T1R. I've only heard good things about this set up

Cheers,
Nick