squarehat

I tried searching for answers to this, but couldn't really find a definite answer. Here's the scenario: I have a '96 ES with the stock 205/65/R15's. I was considering upgrading to 17" or 18" wheels for the warmer months. However, I've read various warnings that talk about how going to big wheels with low-profile tires stresses your brakes, with no explanation of the physics of it. I like my current stopping distance, for example, the other day, a little old man in a Lincoln LS pulled out in front of me suddenly and I stopped with a couple of feet to spare. I don't know if I had put on 225/40/18's whether my car would be at a body shop right now.
So, what causes this, and is it matter for concern? Is it a "flywheel effect" that causes the larger, heavier wheel to have more inertia? If so, wouldn't that make it harder to get off the line, also?. Does it have something to do with the wider contact patch of larger wheel/tire combos? Does it have something to do with less rubber/air to cushion and "give" when stopping?

Ag02M5

You are right on.

The larger wheels carry more weight (usually). To compund matters, the weight is focused further away from center...and there you have your inertia.

As long as you get some good quality, reasonably light wheels you should be ok. If you are really concerned, just go with 17's...or bigger forged wheels.

Good luck and glad you stopped ok.

BTW...I just put on a medium weight 19 and am upgrading the brakes (had planned to do that before I got new wheels though).