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Date:         Mon, 1 Mar 1999 00:33:38 EST
Reply-To:     Vantaztik@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Roger&Zoe Ann Banker <Vantaztik@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Answers about Tires and Handling
Comments: To: KENWILFY@aol.com
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII

In a message dated 2/28/99 8:37:25 PM Pacific Standard Time, KENWILFY@AOL.COM writes:

> I have seen or heard the way to improve > handling on a vehicle is to increase wheel size (like with 15" alloy wheels) > and then go for a lower profile tire (like 205/60s). Is this true? I know > that lower profile tires would not be so good in adverse conditions (like > going through the woods or on really bumpy roads) but my driving very rarely > sees any conditions like these. I figure that lower profile tires should > really help with the swaying and wind buffeting that Vanagons and Westies > experience in windy condtions. Hi Ken. There are many factors that will affect your handling. With the taller rims and a shorter sidewall, there will be less sidewall flexing, and thus less lean and better control in sidewinds, and when turning. The down side is that the flexing also helps absorb bumps, so the ride gets harsher. The difference is normally minimal. A bigger difference is made by putting a bigger "footprint" on the road. Wider tires will help with handling and sidewinds, and you can vary the tire pressure to get the ride you want. The down side of big tires is that their greater weight will slow you down and cause a bouncier ride, perhaps requiring better shock absorbers, depending on how big you go. Weight distribution is also a factor in sidewind sensitivity. To reduce sidewind problems, keep tool boxes, cargo, etc., as far forward and as low as you can, especially in Westies. Roger


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