I replaced the stock tires with ones that were slightly wider and did not end up losing any ground. Tires provide you the ability to physically screw into a turn without fear (albeit you still need to keep your head on). The roads in the city are far from ideal (as are most), and I have flown through large potholes without suffering any problems. On profile 45, this would be the untimely death of most tires. I advise everyone. Kontik - level!