This is a pretty lame question, but looks wise, what's the difference between the stock 235 tire and say a 245 or 255 tire on the same 8" wheel?
I know the side wall height would be taller, but would the tire bulge out more from the edge of the wheel than the stock tire?
I'm guessing that it won't bulge out any more unless the wheel was narrower?

 

as you increase width (e.g. 235 to 245) the tire is obviously going to 'bulge' out a little more. also the side wall doesn't necessarily have to be bigger. simply reduce the side wall ratio (e.g. 45 to 40) to accommodate the increase in width. it's a give and take with the width/side wall relationship (if you want to remain close to stock height that is)

 

I'm okay with the side wall being taller, I was just wondering if the wider tire would result in a larger bulge in an attempt to limit curb rash incidences compared to the stock tire size on the same wheel.
I can live with the speedo and mileage error that will occur

 

Take a look over at the Tire Rack web site. Pick out the size and when the list comes up take hit specs. You'll be able to see the width and height of the various sizes.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/Spec.j...e1=yes&place=4

Keep in mind, that tread width and other tires dimensions can vary between the brands, even in the same size.

 

And also the wider you go with tires, it will make your rims look smaller as well due to the rubber overhang (bulge).