Is there a preferred size for a set of track wheels? 16", 17", 18"? I've read tha people prefer a smaller/lighter wheel for drag racing but what about for the track? Anyone got any input on this?

 

bigger, that way you can fit bigger brakes so you can go faster and break later

 

I would use the smallest size that fits over your brakes.

 

Good point.

 

This is the answer most 'function over form' guys would give. Bigger wheels are more appealing to the eye but do nothing for outright speed. Plus usually you can find the same width tires for cheaper in smaller wheel diameters, & the increased sidewall offer greater protection of expensive wheels. Think about it, most race cars don't sport wheels greater than 18in. - F1, Indy, CART, WRC, & I think DTM & JTGC use 17s...

 

WRC cars use 15" for gravel/snow and 18" for tarmac. F1, Indy, CART, use different size front and rear, but I'm not sure what they are. Fronts are significantly smaller in both width and diameter. Not sure what JGTC/DTM/BTC cars use, but I'd actually guess 18" for them too.

But you're right about the 'form over function' part.

 

Great chunk of info there. Danka.

 

Bigger is not better for racing - BAN said a mouthful with the "smallest that fit your brakes" theory.

 

but if you are running stock breaks you want to get a wheel that will fit over most big brake kits so that you can upgrade your breaks and dont' ahve to buy another set of wheels when you upgrade your brakes

 

How about "smallest that fit you current or future brakes"

 

haha... i like 17" wheels