Losing weight above the suspension helps to keep the centre of gravity low and further minimise roll, however, most of this is ultimately dictated by the design of the vehicle. Remember, the suspension system works to keep the car level, minimise body roll in corners and maintain with the road surface. These wheels spin very quickly and have to resist significant forces and impact on the road.Įverything under the suspension system is known as ‘unsprung weight,’ the wheels included. You have wheels, which are the only tiny part of the vehicle that actually touch the road surface. The confusion is born from understanding where the weight needs to be shed from. It’s common knowledge that shedding weight improves acceleration and decreases stopping distances. So, are you wasting money with lighter wheels? However, you can misinterpret the significance of said numbers. You can’t misinterpret the order in which numbers go in. With all these numbers being thrown around, it’s very easy to be sucked down the Clarkson-esque route of ‘more is better’, or in this case, ‘less is better’. Acronyms, seemingly arbitrary numbers and terminology that seem familiar yet somehow alien. Petrol-heads love communicating in what sometime feels like their own secret language. Less weight, aerodynamics, brake clearance, heat treatment etc. If you thought tyres were expensive then you’re in for a treat.Īnd as with most things in the world, the cost grows exponentially the more you demand from them. Our service staff is comprised of wheel and rim experts who remain on the cutting edge of wheel style, configuration, and performance.įor the best wheel buying experience around, contact us today.As we’re sure you’re aware, replacing the wheels of your car can be very expensive. Terrain: Where do you drive most often? Wheels should be selected based on their primary function.Įvery customer’s criteria for buying wheels is different, so we urge you to contact us with your questions or concerns.Heavier wheels increase braking distance and reduce handling, while lighter wheels will improve maneuverability and braking performance. Weight: Wheel weight impacts vehicle performance.If you plan on upgrading your current wheel size, be sure to consider the maximum wheel size allowance on your vehicle. Size: Various wheel sizes and weights hold different performance characteristics.When choosing wheels for your car, truck, or SUV, consider the following: The right set of wheels depends on vehicle characteristics and desired ride quality. The result is a light, dense, and strong wheel. Forged Wheels: The forging process takes a solid piece of aluminum and molds the wheel through high heat and extreme pressure.Machined Wheels: The machining process combines casting, heating, spinning, and precise pressurization to fill a mold with molten aluminum and shape the wheel.The shape of the wheel is formed through a process of gravity or pressure casting. Cast Wheels: Aluminum wheels are manufactured through a process of pouring molten aluminum into a mold.While chrome wheels are known for their metallic mirrored shine, durability, and strength, they require regular attention and cleaning to maintain their visual appeal.
Chrome wheels are sought by drivers concerned with cosmetic appearance. Chrome is an aesthetically pleasing finish applied to both alloy and steel wheels.Steel wheels are perfect for harsh road conditions in the snow or off-road over rugged terrain, but lack other performance capabilities because of the added weight. Steel Wheels are heavier wheels that provide vehicles with a lower center of gravity.These light wheels increase cornering and steering precision, and decrease road feedback for better braking response. Alloy Wheels are light wheels with improved performance characteristics.If you have any questions during your research, simply contact us online. Before you start shopping for a new set of wheels, use our wheel buying guide below, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of different wheel materials in order to find the best wheel to suit your needs.