Greetings all! I want to start a thread on drag racing tips and tricks, that touches on wheels and tires. I will post up a few pics and info a couple times a week, and would love for all to join in with knowledge! Lets keep it classy and informative!

Here we go!

Why are skinny front wheels and tires used?

Weight savings (unsprung weight), aerodynamics, less rolling resistance

First off weight savings!

Unsprung weight refers to the weight that is not supported by the vehicle’s springs. This can include brakes, wheels, tires, axle shafts, brake calipers, and various suspension components to name a few.

Reducing the unsprung weight in the front end aides the reaction of the car’s suspension. By having less weight to move, the car’s suspension will react/respond faster.


Aerodynamics


In a street/strip set up aerodynamics may not play such a huge role as it would on a car traveling down the track to a trap speed of two hundred miles per hour. However, it is important to note that with a skinny front runner we have decreased the surface are that air has to move around the tire as well as lowered the front end of the car, both of these play a role in the overall aerodynamics of the car.


Less rolling resistance


By reducing the total surface area that is contact with the pavement, you have lessened the rolling resistance of the front of the car. A lot of us also do not have power steering or have removed it to save weight, with less rolling resistance steering at low speeds is easier.