Drag Radials

Rick Schilling · 04-08-2009, 04:37 PM

It seems that a 10" rim with a radial tire is probably the most popular combination being used right now. I understand the logic behind that, with increased air pressure and decreased rolling resistance, etc., but what about the somewhat old school approach of using a narrower rim and a tire designed to grow a significant amount, allowing the final drive ratio to raise as wheel speed increases. I seem to remember a time when some of the tire manufacturers offered "high-growth" sportsman tires. The variable ratio effect would seem to me to be a real advantage if utilized properly ( i.e. steeper gearing) or has the wide rim/radial tire combination actually been proven to be that much better?

04-08-2009, 04:37 PM	#12
Rick Schilling Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Indy Posts: 103 Likes: 18 Liked 14 Times in 10 Posts	Re: Drag Radials It seems that a 10" rim with a radial tire is probably the most popular combination being used right now. I understand the logic behind that, with increased air pressure and decreased rolling resistance, etc., but what about the somewhat old school approach of using a narrower rim and a tire designed to grow a significant amount, allowing the final drive ratio to raise as wheel speed increases. I seem to remember a time when some of the tire manufacturers offered "high-growth" sportsman tires. The variable ratio effect would seem to me to be a real advantage if utilized properly ( i.e. steeper gearing) or has the wide rim/radial tire combination actually been proven to be that much better?