Are there any owners in the Detroit, MI area who have lowered their cars and have 17" wheels. I am waiting on my 99.5 A4 1.8TQM and would like to get some recommendations and maybe see some of the lowered cars. I am considering the Ronal R-28's....what do ya think? Thanks

Craig,<p>Writing from Seattle at the moment, but from the Detroit area, and planning to switch to 17" wheels in the spring after taking off the nokian Hak 1's for winter (stock 16" sport wheels). But, I'm also moving in the spring to a place with friendlier pavement than Detroit...if you're getting the sport pack, you may want to check out the setup in 16" first--Detroit roads are getting better but are still pretty rough. I 'spose you're going for performance over comfort though. I guess if you're getting the regular stock wheels, i'd switch right away too. You'll want a strong 17" wheel, and the Ronals are known for their strength, if you like the look. Lowering/stiffening the suspension on 17" rims might make the ride a bit rough for Detroit, which I suspect is part of your question that Cathleen or others are more qualified to answer. I think the factory sport option strikes an excellent balance between ride and handling, so you might want to look for something similar in aftermarket, if that's the route you're choosing. Good luck, and have fun with it--you'll love it..<p>Rich<br>'98 2.8Q sport

I wouldn't have wanted to be driving an A4 that was lowered and with wide rims over the last couple of days here in Detroit, so I would advise hanging onto a set of stock rims and tires (or snows) if you go ahead with the aftermarket wheels. I opted for the standard suspension & tires due both to the road conditions around here and the winter driving. It paid off this weekend as I had no trouble getting through some unplowed subdivision streets in 12" of rutted snow. The A4 certainly isn't unstoppable or as good as a SUV with higher clearance, but the Quattro definitely proved itself.<p>BTW, what dealer did you go through? Mine is from Lavery in Birmingham.<p> Doug G<br> 98.5 1.8TQM

<br>Ordered mine from Cook in Farmington (nt)