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Subject:Re: Bigger Wheels and Unsprung Weight
From:James
Date:Sun, 6 Oct 2002 02:56:35 -0700

> If your only concern is accelleration, then yes, you should go with a super
> light weight wheel, with little itty-bitty thin tires, with none of that heavy
> reinforced sidewall junk either.  Take the valve caps off, too.

Uh...Sorry, I guess I should clarify:  I was just trying to consider the
possible drawbacks of a heavier wheel.  Getting to 60mph in 18 sec instead
of 17 or whatever probably wouldn't bother me much either.

> Where the v-dubs
> really shine is their handling, and the larger wheels/lower pro tires
> accentuate this.

Agreed.  Which is why I was wondering about the affect of unsprung weight
(the worst kind!) on our canyon-carving vans.

> To answer your "seat of the pants" ride quality impression Q, though, my
> synopsis is that little bumps are a teeeeny bit harsher.  Due to heavier
> wheels or shorter sidewall?  I dunno, but it doesn't really bother me.  If i
> was concerned about a hugely plush ride, i'd just get an Impala or somethin.

I wasn't so much thinking comfort with big wheels, but again, handling.
And, w/ your review I'll chalk one up for the 15's!

James
90 Carat