For many automotive enthusiasts, rims and tyres are the first upgrades on the list. Choosing the right mags and tyres can be difficult, but a bit of research can help you choose the right wheel and tyre package while improving your car’s handling and performance.

Size Matters

When most people buy new rims, they buy them in a larger size. Although a bigger set of wheels gives your car an aggressive look, but there are other things to consider besides appearance. When an automaker selects tyres and wheels for a car, it gives thought to wheel clearance as well as handling and ride. When increasing rim size, you’ll need to buy lower-profile tyres to maintain the same diameter.

Performance

Another thing to think about is the wheel style you want. Chrome rims and mags have a distinctive look, but the real difference is underneath. An alloy or mag is typically forged from aluminium, which is lightweight and soft. These rims are ideally suited to performance applications where low weight and great braking is necessary. Chrome, on the other hand, is applied to steel rims, which are much heavier than those made from aluminium.

Wheel Offset

Another option when upgrading your rims and tyres is offset, or the spacing of the wheel well and the wheel itself. Offset is an important measurement because it can leave your wheels protruding if it’s too high, or it can cause fender rub if it’s too low. A tyre and wheel vendor can help you find the right offset for your car.

Going Larger

It’s possible to increase the size of rims relative to your tyres to retain the original outer diameter, but it’s a bit more tricky to go with a larger overall size. When you plus-size your rims and tyres, you’ll need to think of wheel clearance on turns and on straightaways. Wheels that are too large can rub the wheel well and limit your turning radius, and they can put extra strain on your brakes and on other parts.

Sometimes You Really Do Get What You Pay For

When buying mags, your last consideration should be their construction and composition. Good rims are made with high quality materials, and they’re designed for great looks and durability. By consulting an expert on rims and tyres, you can find just what you and your car are looking for.