Date: Sun, 29 Jan 2006 12:19:02 -0500 From: ma_twain <ma_twainnospamo.com> Subject: Re: Beware!-Re: Removing rear spoilers?
Bob wrote: > On Sat, 28 Jan 2006 20:23:23 -0500, ma_twain <ma_twainnospamo.com> > wrote: > > >>I have heard the same argument for alloy wheels. The advocates >> >>say the alloys wheels handle better, but forget to add only at higher >>speeds - speeds over 100 MPH. They also love the compare a minivan with >>steel wheels and all season tires to a sports car with a sport >>suspension, alloy wheels and high performance tires - and give all of >>the credit solely to the alloy rims. As some Saab owners know very well, >>their alloy rim handle their wallets very well, especially after they >>have driven through a few potholes. >> > > There is some legitimate argument to rotational acceleration of alloy > wheels due to lighter weights even at lower speeds. I've seen the > physics although I can't quote them. > > However, most "alloy" wheels today are rather heavy. They seem to > easily weigh 30lbs each. Contrast that to my mini-lites of days gone > by that used _real_ alloys and were about 10lbs each. (and it was not > just a size difference, it was the alloy used). > > Common alloy wheels are likely still lighter than a comparable steel > wheel in the sizes we use today and likely have an advantage. Also, > reducing unsprung weight is an advantage in handling. They are also > better vented in some cases - not all, and steel wheels could be if > someone tried - but that has braking advantages. > > I admit that the cheap alloy we get today do bend easily and it is now > a major problem. > I agree that alloy rim contribute to better handling, as you have said. But you did not mention at what speed you would experience this better handling - something most alloy rim enhusiast omit. As for the improved acceleration of alloy rims due to their lighter weight, I would suggest we get some numbers before we declare it worth the cost. Say my Saab goes 0-60 in 7 seconds with alloys, will it go 0-60 in 7.1 seconds with steel rims - is that worth the cost? Why won't the manufacturers and buyers admit they are selling/buying the alloy rims to add to the profit margin (suppliers praying for potholes) and because they look better. I can tell you I have driven Saabs with steel rims and alloy rims at reasonable speeds, around the legal speed limits. I have experienced no difference, no "improved handling" due to the slightly lighter unsprung wheel weight or better braking due to better venting. I have personally experienced the financial pain of replacing alloy rims (potholes)versus the cost of buying steel rims for snow tires. I will tell you a BMW racing instructor and stock car class racer has said alloy rims are better - at speeds above 120 MPH. If you live in an area where you can drive on the public roads at 120 MPH or better (and keep your license), then I would say alloy rims are worth the extra money. If someone knows of such a place let me know :-)
