What is driving the larger and lower profile tires on cars ? It seems like they lead to expensive, easily damaged tires. Is it mainly a looks thing or is it a performance thing ?The physics person in me, says that large tire will take more energy to spin up and will be slower off the line. But, with the larger lower profile tires, do you end up with a larger contact patch ?
Just curious.
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| Reply » Why low profile tires ? |
larger patch and the decrease sidewall height leads to less floating and bend in the tire when taking a turn.
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| Reply » Why low profile tires ? |
It is primarily about looks. I don't race, but most that do seem to prefer 17" rims for maximum performance. Bigger=heavier, and with rotational weight, even worse. Too small (with corresponding high profile tires)= less cornering due to sidewall flex. 17 seems ideal for most people.
To prove my point about looks, check out the trend of putting huge rims on SUVs and trucks. You can't tell me these folks are worried about performance.
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| Reply » Why low profile tires ? |
I opted for the 18" sport package wheels/tires because the wheels look better and it comes with much better tires.
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| Reply » Why low profile tires ? |
I think its all about looks ... if it really were about performance, why wouldn't you see large ass rims on F1 cars? They run about 13 inch rims to reduce rotational mass for maximum speed, yet they also run tires with large contact patches, and very stiff sidewalls for maximum corering grip.
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| Reply » Why low profile tires ? |
It's About Both, But Ultimately It Is About What Is Best For The Design Of The Cars Suspension. 17's Stock And 18's For Performance Suspension
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Why low profile tires ?