PROS* Shorter, stiffer sidewalls flex less under
hard cornering, improving response and driver
communication.
* 17" wheels tend to be either 7" or 7.5" in
width for our cars, which keeps the tire flat
on wheel, stabilizing the contact patch and
putting more of the tire on the road surface
for improved traction... even if the tire is
the same section width.
* Less sidewall flex and "roll-over" means a
high-speed drift or slide isn't sullied by a
skidding, chattering, stuttering, lumpy, fat
sidewall flopping around under the vehicle.
* Generally speaking, and using only the most
considered, technical wording here, plus-size
wheels and low-profile rubber have the effect
of appearing "bad ass" or "damn sweet" to the
trained observer.
CONS:* Inexpensive cast wheels are usually heavier
than the factory alloys, which can increase
unsprung weight and *potentially* negatively
impact acceleration, suspension damping, and
braking.
* Reduced sidewall height means that even low
curbs can cause damage to the wheel surface.
* Reduced sidewall height means that potholes
and road obstacles may impact, bend, or crack
the wheel itself.
* Low-profile tires tend to be more sensitive
to tire pressure, and may need to be baby-sat
and monitored more closely.
* Even with lighter wheels, it is possible to
move unsprung weight further from the hub and
increase the "moment of inertia", which again
negatively affects acceleration and braking.
* Some loss in ride quality with low profile
tires judging with the same tire on different
sized wheels.
VERDICT:This is your prototypical compromise when it
comes to performance. There is a reason that
you see 16" wheels on BMWs and Mercedes, but
there's equally valid reasons you'll see 17"
and 18" wheels too... it's about priorities.
T.
