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brucey · 10-07-2013, 12:50 PM

We all know smooth wheels are the way to go for MPG. With most sources on this websites wiki reporting somewhere between 3 and 7 percent increase, that's something that I would call 'low hanging fruit'

The problem comes from it's not aesthetically pleasing to most, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think moon caps look great on certain rides.

People have experimented with clear wheel covers before. The idea of course being maintain a wheels look but get the aero benefit too. With the main problem being mounting points to properly attach it, followed by brake dust from the caliper attaching to the clear cover and making it not only more difficult to clean, but making it more obvious the cover is there.

Why not use those two problems against each other for a solution?

Essentially, have TWO clear covers. An inner disc and an outer disc. With some long bolts in between and have them pinch the spokes. Yes it might cost a bit, but the wheels should stay cleaner if anything, since they will be 'sealed' in. Plus you're still getting the aerodynamic benefit.

I think I'm going to try this method as I really appreciate the wheels I have on the new car, but I'm sure they're not helping to maximize efficiency. I also haven't been able to find anyone using this method, so does anyone have any thoughts on this? I can draw a picture if my explanation is confusing.

10-07-2013, 12:50 PM	#1 (permalink)
brucey A madman Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: WV Posts: 1,018 Pequod - '17 Subaru Outback 90 day: 22.79 mpg (US) Thanks: 73 Thanked 183 Times in 98 Posts	Clear Wheel Covers We all know smooth wheels are the way to go for MPG. With most sources on this websites wiki reporting somewhere between 3 and 7 percent increase, that's something that I would call 'low hanging fruit' The problem comes from it's not aesthetically pleasing to most, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I think moon caps look great on certain rides. People have experimented with clear wheel covers before. The idea of course being maintain a wheels look but get the aero benefit too. With the main problem being mounting points to properly attach it, followed by brake dust from the caliper attaching to the clear cover and making it not only more difficult to clean, but making it more obvious the cover is there. Why not use those two problems against each other for a solution? Essentially, have TWO clear covers. An inner disc and an outer disc. With some long bolts in between and have them pinch the spokes. Yes it might cost a bit, but the wheels should stay cleaner if anything, since they will be 'sealed' in. Plus you're still getting the aerodynamic benefit. I think I'm going to try this method as I really appreciate the wheels I have on the new car, but I'm sure they're not helping to maximize efficiency. I also haven't been able to find anyone using this method, so does anyone have any thoughts on this? I can draw a picture if my explanation is confusing. Attached Thumbnails Last edited by brucey; 10-16-2013 at 09:56 AM..