Alloy Wheels: The Benefits
Posted: Thursday, October 30, 2008
by John Symonds
What are alloy wheels?
Alloy wheels (sometimes referred to as rims) are wheels for automobiles made from aluminium or magnesium or a mixture of both. Until recently, the wheels that come fitted by car manufacturers to their every day cars have been standard ‘steel' wheels. This is still the case with many manufacturers but more and more now provide alloy wheels as standard or as an optional extra. Steel wheels are more hard-wearing and a great deal cheaper to fit than alloy wheels but in most cases are heavier, less attractive and smaller both in width and diameter than alloy wheels.
Generally alloy wheels are lighter and much more attractive than their steel counterparts. Due to their lighter weight alloy wheels can provide better steering and can also improve the cars acceleration. However, some alloy wheels can be heavier than the equivalent steel ones and may not provide any noticeable gains in handling or performance.
Another benefit of upgrading your wheels is that they are much more attractive than the standard manufacturer's wheels giving a more unique and expensive look to your car. The most common reason people purchase alloy wheels is for cosmetic purposes rather than for performance gains. Alloy wheels come in many intricate designs, sizes and finishes from aluminium to chrome and spinning wheel designs (also known as spinners).
Alloy wheels also improve heat dissipation from the brakes which decreases the chance of brake failure in more difficult driving conditions. Also, as alloy wheels are by and large lighter than standard wheels they normally reduce the cars unsprung weight. This means that the rotary mass at the ends of the suspension mechanism is reduced giving an enhanced steering feel and braking response.
Aftermarket wheels
There are a huge number of aftermarket wheels available in all sizes and for almost any car. There are many aftermarket wheel brands, some of the most known and popular brands include BBS, Donz, Wolfrace, Rennen, Zen and Konig among many others. Although many manufacturers now provide alloy wheels with their cars, these are often as optional extras or on top-end models.
Generally, only luxury and performance cars come with alloy wheels as standard. As most cars come with the standard steel wheels, many car enthusiasts opt for these aftermarket wheels to enhance the look of their cars or for performance gains and improved handling and suspension. The aftermarket wheels industry is a huge market and buying aftermarket wheels have become a part of pop culture. Car enthusiasts want to have the best, most exclusive, expensive and biggest wheels for their automobiles.
This article was submitted by Concept Rides who offer hundreds of aftermarket car parts including exterior car parts, performance car parts, interior car parts, car electronics parts, donz alloy wheels & rims, diesel car parts and much more including a blog where you can find information on aftermarket car parts products and cars in general.This Article has been viewed 375 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
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