The Jaguar I-Pace can be specified with 22-inch wheels and tyres as standard.
As a car owner, you must have thought about modifying or “zhnging” your wheels and tyres.
Especially if you have friends who say modifying your rims can increase performance.
But is this really true for all cars?
BIGGER WHEELS AND TYRES: WHY?
Getting a set of bigger rims and tyres is done for two reasons.
The first is performance. The second is aesthetic.
Ask any enthusiast and they will tell you that bigger wheels just look “right” on a car.
Bigger wheels require larger tyres with wider contact patches.
The size of a tyre’s contact patch has a great influence on its grip.
The wider it is, the more grip a tyre can exert.
THE PROS
All things being equal, bigger wheels and tyres will enhance roadholding.
This also results in shorter braking distances and improved grip, especially in wet conditions.
Keen drivers who want an edge in handling should definitely consider this.
A nice set of lightweight rims from a reputable brand, along with a set of high-performance tyres can do wonders – even without suspension mods.
THE CONS
Increasing your wheel size by one inch will not negatively impact ride quality.
However, high-performance tyres tend to have much stiffer sidewalls compared to normal or eco-friendly tyres.
So, you can expect a bumpier ride.
Also, an increase of one inch will not negatively impact fuel consumption.
But bear in mind that high-performance rubber is not engineered for economy.
Therefore, rolling resistance and economy may deteriorate as a result – especially if you start driving more aggressively.
BEFORE YOU UPSIZE…
Remember, there is no point upsizing if your next set of wheels are not of lightweight construction.
And if you just get larger sized touring tyres or green tyres, the chance to improve handling performance is lost.
If you want bigger wheels and tyres, choose high-performance rubber to go along with it!
