Few aftermarket mods get as much love or as much flak as stretched tires. Let's take a look at some of the pros and cons.
Source | Jonathan Leung on Flickr
What is tire stretching?
First, if you’re not familiar with tire stretching, it’s essentially installing a tire on a wheel size that’s larger than what’s specified for the tire, causing the tire to have to stretch to fit the wheels. A lot of online forums give credit to the VW crowd for starting the trend.
The pros and cons of stretching tires
Pros
Ok, there’s probably just one. Stretched tires just look cool and draw added attention to the wheels.
Cons
Here are some considerations that fall on the “minus” side of the equation. Tire stretching probably isn’t good for your tires’ longevity. Stretching places undue stress on the tire sidewall and bead and can cause premature and irregular tire tread wear, particularly if you have an aggressive camber setup.
Plus, the tire companies don’t like it.
“We follow the RMA (Rubber Manufacturers Association) guideline, beginning on page 42, under Tire Rim/Wheel Selection,” explains Jim Davis, PR Manager, North America, for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. “If it doesn't fit in the rim width range that is published in the tire data books, then we don't approve.”
Performance vs. appearance
Wheels are undoubtedly an important part of the appearance equation, but also play an important role in performance, specifically when it comes to weight.
Here are some thoughts on wheels from Kevin Wells, Technical Manager for FORMULA DRIFT. “Wheel weights matter to our drivers,” Wells explains. “Less rotating weight is preferred, especially in drifting. The wheel speed changes very rapidly–100 mph to 0 mph (ebrake) to 100 mph. Excessive rotational weight places additional stress on the drivetrain and the slower this reaction takes place, not to mention suspension setups from excessive wheel weight.
“Other considerations when it comes to wheels are sizing, fitment, and sponsors,” he adds. “You will see drivers use spacers, front and rear, to get available sizes with the incorrect offset to suit their needs. And as for sponsors, free wheels are good wheels unless you can afford to buy something better!”
So what’s it going to be–looks, performance, or both? Leave us a comment and tell us about your opinion on and experience with stretched tires.
