At
Wheels and Rims® we discovered most people don’t even know the advantages of
getting n alloy wheels; but if you do, that is a wonderful bonus.
Let
us take a moment to actually look at the benefits of having an alloy wheel on
your vehicle
What Are the Benefits of Alloy
Wheels?
Alloy wheels are more expensive than their steel-plated competitors, but the
benefits of having them justify the high price tag. While steel wheels are
acceptable for use on everyday roads, some drivers prefer the better
alternative. Alloy wheels refer to any wheels made from a combination of
aluminum and small traces of other metals. Aluminum combined with these other
metals creates a supremely strong and lightweight wheel.
Alloy wheels are also favored for their aesthetic appeal, and they tend to
increase the overall value of the car. Some alloy wheels are made for specific
makes and models of cars, so it is imperative that shoppers buy a set of wheels
that fits their cars. Customers who buy a set of alloy wheels must also learn
to properly care for and maintain their investment.
Benefits of Alloy
Wheels
Alloy
wheels may have gotten their start in racing, but more and more people are
putting them on their everyday cars. Most people purchase a set of alloy wheels
because they enhance the appearance of their vehicles, but there are actually
many other benefits to having them on a car. They weigh significantly less than
their steel-plated competitors, while being incredibly durable. Adding a set of
alloy wheels to any car increases the overall value of the car. Depending on
the make and model of the car, some alloy wheels can be fitted to give the car
more brake clearance. Some experts claim alloy wheels also increase the gas
mileage and handling and performance of the vehicle.
Aesthetic
Appeal
It is no secret that alloy wheels look significantly better than steel
wheels and hubcaps. In fact, many people buy alloy wheels based on aesthetics
alone. Alloy wheels are sold in all the standard sizes, and the selection is
large and impressive. For cars with common bolt patterns, such as Hondas and
Volkswagens, it is easy to find a set of alloy wheels in sizes from 13 inches
all the way up to 18 inches. Alloy wheels are sold with a variety of finishes,
such as chrome, painted, and polished. Some companies even allow buyers to
customize their wheels, but these deals typically come with high price tags. At
wheels and Rims, we will take that journey with you.
Lightweight
Aluminum is the key material that makes alloy wheels so lightweight. Wheels
are classified as unsprung weight, which means weight that is not supported by
the car’s suspension. Unsprung weight makes the vehicle vulnerable to shock
transmission. Alloy wheels decrease the unsprung weight, and because of this
lower weight, there is an increase in the car’s handling, particularly in the
steering precision. A lighter wheel also makes it easier for the car to accelerate,
and this can give drivers a small increase in gas mileage.
Increased
Brake Clearance
Shoppers should see if there is a set of alloy wheels that allows for more
brake clearance for their vehicles because this increases their brake
performance. With more break clearance, the effort to push the brake pedal is
reduced, and this gives drivers better control over the deceleration of their
vehicles. Not all car and wheel combinations offer this feature, but at wheels
and Rims, we are on hand to help you along this decision line.
Durability
The aluminum mixed with other metals makes alloy wheels stronger than
typical steel wheels, and the unprecedented strength of alloy wheels leads to
greater control and precision steering. Alloy wheels disperse heat better, and
this decreases cracking and bending. Better dispersion also translates to more
efficient braking. Additionally, many alloy wheels have spokes designed to let
air flow freely around the rest of the tire, and this helps cool the brakes.
Increased
Vehicle Value
Fitting a car for alloy wheels is a considerable upgrade. At the very least,
it makes the car easier to sell, and at best, it increases the resale value of
the car, especially if the car is already in good condition. More drivers are
starting to recognize the benefits of having alloy wheels, whether it is for
their looks or their performance enhancing qualities, and with the addition of
aftermarket alloy wheels, resellers can often sell a car for a very decent
profit.