Truck Tire Size for low RR
 

I tried searching but not many threads for 2500HD pickup tires :)

Does a larger wheel with smaller sidewall help or hinder rolling resistance?

Which one of these wheel sizes would likely have the lowest rolling resistance of these sizes in the same tire (Michelin LTX M/S 2).

265/75r16, 48lb tire weight, 31.7" tall, 80PSI max

265/70r17, 48lb tire weight, 31.7" tall, 80PSI max

265/60r20, 50LB tire weight, 32.5" tall, 80PSI max

Thanks!!

My guess is, given the same compound, pressure and width, the taller tire will give the lowest rolling resistance as it will have the least sidewall deflection for the tire footprint.

Tire rolling resistance is way, way more dependent on the make and model of tire than on size. In other words, tire size plays a small role in RR.

In other words, there is no point is going smaller in trying to achieve better fuel economy.

PLUS - the diameter of a tire will affect the overall gearing - larger being better. So it is good if you can fit a larger diameter under the fenders (and that is larger overall diameter, not larger wheel diameter!)