Why are 17" wheels better tham 16"
09 March 2002, 11:54 AM
#3
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David, most people seem to go for big wheels for cosmetic reasons, but the performance benefit is in the lower tyre profile (aspect ratio), ie the side-walls are lower. So you get less side-wall flex on cornering, more precise, better steering feedback. You don't get any more grip in theory, but it feels like you do.
The ride quality will suffer a bit (less bounce in the tyres) and many bigger wheels are heavy. Anything over about 11kg might overload standard suspension.
Richard.
The ride quality will suffer a bit (less bounce in the tyres) and many bigger wheels are heavy. Anything over about 11kg might overload standard suspension.
Richard.
10 March 2002, 02:20 AM
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From a driving point of view, you will find that 16" wheels are the optimum wrt feedback and comfort. The larger wheels will give a worse ride and a tendancy to tramline, also tyre costs will be alot higher. 17", especially in gold, also tend to look a little over the top.
11 March 2002, 09:04 PM
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Well i just changed from original 15"ers to sum 17" bad boys & while the toyos still have a way 2 go before bedded in the turning in aspect is so much improved i can't emphasise enough! Feels like a proper scoob & can't say as i've noticed a much harsher ride & believe me it's a proper speedbump torn up road fest round these parts, maybe i just drive too sedately?
IMHO they do look so much better also, admittedly the originals r pieces of shyte but im in luv they just make the car look so much better & more beast like
I have seen 18"ers on the likes of the tart tastic trouser mobile & they do look pucker also but i should think that it may be a little harsh & i dont doubt 4 a second that his suspension has been upgraded so he can take such weighty *******
Good luck anyhow chap
Si
IMHO they do look so much better also, admittedly the originals r pieces of shyte but im in luv they just make the car look so much better & more beast like
I have seen 18"ers on the likes of the tart tastic trouser mobile & they do look pucker also but i should think that it may be a little harsh & i dont doubt 4 a second that his suspension has been upgraded so he can take such weighty *******
Good luck anyhow chap
Si
12 March 2002, 09:55 AM
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Si, I guess going from 15 to 17 will feel a lot better. You sound pleased The other advantage of 17s is you can stick some serious brakes under them, which will be night and day compared to your 2-pots 
Richard.
The other advantage of 17s is you can stick some serious brakes under them, which will be night and day compared to your 2-pots Richard.