I have got myself caught up in an 'experts' argument over wheels and
tyres, so I thought I might gather a few more opinions to confuse me
more. This weekend was race weekend so the after-race barbecue was the
perfect time and place for this argument where EVERYONE had an opinion.
I had decided that I needed decent width sticky tyres (road legal) for
racing, so I picked on an expensive brand and model (not important to
this argument) that others use successfully on the track. These tyres
are 205's that required me to get wider rims (5 1/2 or 6 inches). I
found myself a set of Datsun rims that seemed to fit the bill and all
was well with the world.
THEN I had an offer of some good condition used tyres of the same
make/model I wanted. These tyres had approx 70% wear left on them and I
could save myself 30/40% of the price of the new tyres (I will only use
them usually once a month for racing), the only hassle being that they
come off 15 inch rims. So I hunted down 15 inch rims.
THE ARGUMENT is that I should NOT put 15 inch rims on my car as I will
have to alter diff ratios to get the speed/performance I would get from
the 14 inch rims (extra money and no guarantees). There were other
elements thrown in there... but they became just a wall of sound after a
while. Yes, I know the physics behind turning the wider diameter wheel
with the same force, etc., and my 'real' racer mates have 13 inch
wheels!
Some said GO FOR IT - others argued. It wasn't pleasant!
Any final thoughts? And yes, money is one of the criteria (hence used
rims and used tyres being attractive).
Eric
'68MGB MkII
Adelaide, South Australia
So, fire away. I will/have to make the decision today. Do I get the
bigger rims and save a few hundred dollars
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