|
The sidewall on the 17" tires is an inch less high than on the 15"s.
On impact with the road they have to flex deeper than the 15", and it also takes more force to flex them in the first place.
The 17" rim has a much wider open gap, and the thin spokes do little to prevent the air from flowing in. The 15" rims have thick spokes and little gaps between them, so less drag.
4 big bucket sized holes generate more drag than 20 tea cup sized ones.
My guess is that setting the pressure to max sidewall PSI will have a big effect on rolling resistance, as the sidewalls will have to flex much less then. Steering will be lighter and more precise. Grip and comfort stay behind in the parking lot.
Covering the rim with a plate would help reduce drag at higher speeds.
__________________
2011 Honda Insight + HID, LEDs, tiny PV panel, extra brake pad return springs, neutral wheel alignment, 44/42 PSI (air), PHEV light (inop), tightened wheel nut.
  lifetime FE over 0.2 Gmeter or 0.13 Mmile.
For confirmation go to people just like you.
For education go to people unlike yourself.
Last edited by RedDevil; 01-03-2013 at 03:42 AM..
Reason: typo
|