Glossary

These are descriptive definitions of the terminology you’ll come across on TyreStretch.com and in stance car culture generally. They explain what the words mean — they are not fitment guidance. New to the topic? Start with our guide to tyre stretch.

Tyre stretch

The look created when a tyre is fitted to a rim wider than its nominal section width, pulling the sidewall taut. The central subject of this gallery.

Section width

A tyre’s nominal width in millimetres at its widest point — the first number in a size like 225/35 R19.

Aspect ratio (profile)

The sidewall height expressed as a percentage of the section width — the 35 in 225/35 R19. A lower figure means a shorter sidewall.

Wheel / rim diameter

The diameter of the wheel the tyre fits, in inches — the R19 in 225/35 R19. The “R” denotes radial construction.

Rim width (J)

The width of a wheel between its bead seats, measured in inches and written with a “J” (e.g. 8.5J). The “J” describes the flange profile, not a unit.

Bead / bead seat

The inner edge of the tyre that locates against the rim, and the ledge on the wheel it sits on. The distance between the two bead seats is the rim width.

Offset (ET)

The distance in millimetres between a wheel’s mounting face and its centreline. It’s one of the measurements enthusiasts quote when describing how a wheel sits under the arch.

PCD

Pitch circle diameter — the diameter of the circle passing through a wheel’s bolt holes, describing its bolt pattern (e.g. 5×112).

Stance

A modifying style focused on how a car sits — typically low, flush and filling the wheel arches. Stretched tyres are a common part of the look.

Flush

When the outer face of the wheel and tyre sits level with the edge of the wheel arch.

Poke

When the wheel and tyre sit outboard of the arch, so they protrude beyond the bodywork.

Tucked

When the top of the wheel and tyre sit inside the arch line, tucked under the bodywork.

Camber

The inward or outward tilt of a wheel from vertical, viewed from the front. Negative camber tilts the top of the wheel inward.

Fitment

A general term for a specific tyre-and-wheel combination on a car. Each photo in this gallery documents one fitment.

Ready to see these in the wild? Browse all sizes or the most popular fitments.