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Old 01-03-2013, 10:23 AM   #51 (permalink)
F8L
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Location: Sacramento, CA
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F8L's 2012 Prius - '12 Toyota Prius Three with Solar Roof
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RedDevil View Post
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.
Indeed but even at 55psi the loss is still there.

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2012 Prius Three with Solar Roof - Blizzard Pearl w/dark gray interior: Prius Plug-In 15" Wheels | Michelin Energy Saver A/S 195/65/15 tires | TRD Lowering Springs | WeatherTech FloorLiners | Scangauge II | Morimoto/DDM HIDs 5000K | Clazzio Leather Seat Covers | Best Tank: 71.7mpg@702miles | Best Trip: 95.9mpg@233miles
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