Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
Why did wheel sizes increase? If larger is better, why didn't manufacturers simply start from a larger wheel?
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Hmmm...bigger wheels have less centripetal force on the tire since they rotate slower at a given speed, so the tire can be made weaker in tension. I suppose the tread flexes a bit less reducing energy consumption and improves grip a little. Finally, I think customers think big wheels look cool, because wheels have been getting bigger and bigger while the tire sidewalls have been getting smaller and smaller.
I'm guessing it didn't start that way because they didn't want to spend money making big wheels when a small wheel would do. Unfortunately, tires for small diameter wheels are getting harder and harder to find, so we'll all be switching to big wheels at some point :/