gijow

Is it a waste? I want to upgrade the handling, but I can't justify replacing the oem tires yet because they still have a lot of tread. Would a swaybar be completly useless without good tires, or would you recommend getting the bar now and replacing the tires when they need it?

Imprezer

iTrader: (9)

Stock tires are scary. With bigger rear sway bar, they will be even more scary.

gijow

Fun scary, or unsafe scary?

Imprezer

iTrader: (9)

That would depend on how good of a driver you are. But, I'd say unsafe scary...

gijow

Ok, so in your opinion I should buy the bar but keep it locked up until the tires are upgraded?

Imprezer

iTrader: (9)

Yes. I mean its not like you will spin out of control every turn. Your car will just be a lot more freakier and tend to slide when it should not. You can install it. Just be careful. And, I recommend upgrading rims and tires. Get some nice Rota's and better tires in 17" and at least 225. 235 preferred.

gijow

good advice, thanks.

andyf

iTrader: (3)

Tires are more important... but of course it is a waste of money to get new performance tires when there's plenty of tread left on the stockers. I'd get the sway, and leave it on the softest setting... and get a performance alignment. You should be fine as long as you don't go crazy with the new bar. Just take it easy to learn the new handling of the car.

gijow

Ok thanks andyf. I don't track the car (yet) and I drive pretty conservetivly most of the time. I don't street race, but I like to play every once in a while. I don't want to sacrifice the daily drivability and reliability. What are the pros and cons of a more aggresive alignment?

andyf

iTrader: (3)

Cons: Theoretically you wear the inside edges more, but if you drive more aggressively you'll SAVE your tires since you won't be rolling on the edges as much.... camber is not as bad as toe. I run max camber in the front with the stock hardware and zero toe all around and don't see excessive wear.

Pros: More grip, better handling