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The affect rim width has on tire performance is very small provided you stay within the published allowable rim width range.
When it comes to fuel economy, a larger load carrying capacity is directionally better - but the affect is small. So, no, thinner is not better!
But, there is a HUGE range of values for rolling resistance between tires - up to 60%. So careful selection is very important. Just be aware that there is a technology triangle between treadwear, traction (especially wet traction) and fuel economy. Put another way, if you really go after treadwear, the result will not be the best fuel economy.
But with the recent tire price increases, it just may be that we have crossed the point where an improvement in fuel economy - at the expense of treadwear - does not result in an overall cost savings over the life of the tire. Does anyone have the old calculation, so we can update it?
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