Big Wheels benefit or not...tested and compared

[127.0.0.1]

makes a good read I reckon

http://www.caranddriver.com/features/10q1/effects_of_upsized_wheels_and_tires_tested-tech_dept

[minnyar]

I thought that was interesting as well. I would think the results would be amplified on something as light as a Yaris. Makes lightweight 15's sound great!

[why?]

it's a great article, too bad they couldn't exactly match the tires.

[cherry tomato]

That article saved me from doing alot of research and math. I have been writing down tire weights for different sizes and then I was going to find the rim weights to see if a larger rim with a lower profile tire would weigh less. (I actually thought it would, since rubber is pretty heavy)

Pretty funny that "upgrading" to bigger rims reduces acceleration, reduces braking, and reduces mileage.

I now know I won't be "upgrading".

Well, except maybe if I can find some nice black 15" aluminum rims that weigh less than the stock steel ones.

[severous01]

ya but you dont have to go wider to go bigger. it'll look goofy as all get-out but it can be done. they went from a 195 series to a 235 series...that's like 2" wider. of course it's going to be heavier. plus, metal is more dense than rubber and therefore heavier...

i kinda wish they'd gone with a similar width. maybe a 205 tops even in the 19's. but then again, tire selection woulda been hard to come by.

[derickveliz2]

Pretty funny that "upgrading" to bigger rims reduces acceleration, reduces braking, and reduces mileage.
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There is a lot to do with the overall Diameter of the tire. when changing rims make sure the tire on the new wheel matches as much as possible the Diameter of what you have now.

you can always check the sticky for "Official YARIS Wheel & Tire Guide" (http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5021)

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:thumbsup: