Car rims are also called wheel rims. The different types of rims are spinning rims, chrome rimes, truck rims, American racing rims or custom rims. These differ in design, price, size, weight and mounting options. When the rims are lighter in weight, the overall road performance of the vehicle is improved.
Car rims are vital to the handling and performance of the vehicle. The wheel styles range from regular 5 spoke alloy wheels and wire wheels to the latest chrome spinning wheels. Many car owners also use custom designed rims and this enhances the look of a vehicle and lends it a bit of exclusivity.
Earlier car models had steel rims. Steel wheels were heavy, added unnecessary weight to the car and reduced performance. Modern rims are more sleek and aerodynamic. Alloy wheels are a good choice for city commuting and are most common in the mainstream market. They are light, dissipate heat rapidly and improve mileage.
Chrome wheel rims are popular due to their shiny exterior. Many other types of alloy rims have been introduced in the last decade. Custom alloy rims include magnesium rims that are x-rayed and heat tempered to ensure that they look good and are durable.
The size of the rim increases with the size of the car. Smaller cars have rims that are 13 inches in diameter. Larger vehicles have rims that can go up to 27 inches and beyond. Rear wheel drives vehicles typically need rims 2 inches larger in diameter than front wheel drive vehicles.
Increasing the size of the rim enhances the look, as well as the performance of the vehicle. “Plus sizing” is a term that refers to increasing the size of the car rim in proportion to the wheel. Plus sizing gives the driver a better steering response and the ability to handle corners more efficiently. A larger surface area of the wheel comes in contact with the road when the size of the rim is increased.
One of the hottest trends today is for car rims that include spinners. These rims cause an optical illusion. The wheel looks as though it is still spinning when a vehicle is stationary. These wheels are designed to attract an onlooker’s attention. They don’t have any specific utility value, but are popular nonetheless.