racing & wheels

ok, i'm resurrecting this thread...............

i understand that a stock and/or small size diameter rim (relative to the proportion of the car) has higher tyre sidewalls (profile) in comparison to a larger aftermarket sized diameter rim (relative to the proportion of the car) has lower tyre sidewalls (profile).

am i correct to assume that a stock and/or small size diameter rim is has less rotational mass than a larger size diameter rim therefore a stock and/or small size diameter rim will efficiently transfer power into the wheels (less rotation force & less stress).

which brings me to my question:
what size wheels are best on a circuit track? ie wakefield?
I have a set of stock 15x6 (195/55r15) and also a set of 18x7.5 (215/35r18).
which of these would be the ideal to run a lower time?

The larger wheel with low profile tyres would be effective on the corners? would it not?
And the smaller wheel with high profile tyres would be effective on the straights? would it not?
What is the compromise? Which set up is best for this use? And why?

The way i see it there are a few advanteges of lightweight wheels compard to say 19 inch chromies (like my neighbour) on the track:

Faster acceleration
Faster deceleration/better braking
Allows your suspsension to do its work properly
Easier to change wheels

also more flex on the sidewalls but i dont think its THAT much of a concern on the average streeter/weekend tracker

Quote:

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Originally Posted by panda[CRX]

also more flex on the sidewalls but i dont think its THAT much of a concern on the average streeter/weekend tracker

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Will semi slicks fix this?

semi's are more to do do with having a softer compound and 'slicker' tread for better traction.

i dont see how it would affect flex

Quote:

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Originally Posted by panda[CRX]

semi's are more to do do with having a softer compound and 'slicker' tread for better traction.

i dont see how it would affect flex

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semis have a "squarer" profile than street tyres , and stiffer sidewalls.
OFcourse this translates to less flex mid corner :)

ah i didnt know they had stiffer sidewalls
and i do guess 'squarer' is a better description but u got what i was saying bleh;)

i'm still trying to do my tire studying atm :p

ultimately if you had a set of 15x7 - or 7.5 (195/50(or45?)/15) for the car that you have would be ideal.

why? gives you the best of both worlds..
smaller rim diameter therefore more efficient transfer of power at the wheels as you've listed above.
more width on tyres for better handling...

that's basically it in a nutshell... :D

(however if you're going on track, best option would be a set of slicks or semislicks - can be costly though)

Currently have a set of chrome bling 18"s

i was looking at getting some 5Zigen pro racer or Gram lights 57s 17" i want better power....Street use

would i see much difference ??? or am i best going 16"

i love the look of 17" but ill sacrifice it for better performance

no point in getting lightweight fly wheel if i am trying to turn an elephant hahah

Lerroy, try some "lightweight" throwaround 16"s, ie. Rota Slipstreams.

:rolleyes:
Nah Lerroy...... get some throwout... I mean throwaround 15" ie. Enkei.......

get SW388...