What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tire?
 

Hey guys, I was wondering what the reasoning is for running different wheel widths on the same size tire.

For this question, what are the differences in running say a 12" vs. 14" wheel on a 14X32 slick? Is one superior over the other? How do you choose which wheel width given a tire size you would like to run?

Thanks,

JP

Re: What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tir
 

An inch or so wider than the tire has yielded the best results on all of my rides from super gas to slow bracket cars. Bigger footprint and higher psi equals more consistent 60's.

Re: What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tir
 

X2
Most Stockers that I know of use 10" rims with 9" slicks. Some even wider. Narrower rims are usually run due to wheelwell clearance. The ability to run more air pressure also prolongs sidewall life and performance.

Re: What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tir
 

narrower wheel will let tire grow more,wider wheel will not let tire grow as much,is one effect.
Mike Taylor 3601

Re: What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tir
 

To expand on Myron's response, the narrower rim will decrease section width a little to help with wheelwell clearance. However, a rim of the same or greater width tends to give more directional stability, allow more tire pressure for best traction.

Re: What is the effect of different wheel widths on same tir
 

Using the same width Tire.
A 30 inch Slick has more contact surface than a 28 inch tall tire.
The taller the tire longer footprint, more contact area.