Several Wheel Questions

[300bhp/ton]

Originally Posted by HRees44

I'm curious as well.

I know most 16'' tires have better load ratings, and most of the time stronger sidewalls, but other than this, I don't see any other advantages to a 16'' rim used off road.

Looks like Ian doesn't want to let on.

[p76rangie]

Sorry, just don't go into these threads very often. You can get the same tyres for 15 inch and 16 inch rims, so the specification of the tyre (sidewall thickness, etc) are largely irrelevant.

Basically a 16 inch rimmed tyre has less thichness in the wall of the tyre. This makes them more stable for sideway movement. If you have the same PSI in a 16 inch rim and a 15 inch rim, the diametre of the 16 inch rim will be greater due to a greater portion of the overall diametre being made up of the steel rim. Therefore gives better ground clearance. Due to the amount of rubber and the sideway flex in a 15 inch rim, it is easier to roll the tyre off the rim. However, the 15 inch rim will have a longer foot print at any given PSI and therefore will have better traction in wet conditions.

Like anything, horses for courses.

[300bhp/ton]

Thanks for answering although on something like a 33 or 35" I suspect no one can tell the difference between 15 and 16" rims. As you are talking about a small percentage change in sidewall height.

On a car running lower profile tyres I can see it making a much greater difference.

[p76rangie]

You do notice the difference between the rim sizes. But if you don't, it really doesn't matter whether you have 15 or 16 inch rims. As 16 inch rims are standard on most older LR product, they are easier to come by and cheaper.