Hints and Tips - Wheels

Wheels

Your choice of wheels will contribute to the performance of your vehicle. There are four major factors to consider when choosing your wheels:

1) Diameter

he diameter of the wheel will effect the performance of the vehicle in a similar way to gear ratios. In fact, it is the circumference of the wheel that is the important factor although it is directly affected by diameter. The distance a wheel travels with a single revolution is the same as the circumference. So, in theory, larger diameter wheels will make the vehicle faster although weight will be increased.

2) Width

Wider wheels have a larger area of the wheel in contact with the ground. This means that traction and stability will be improved. However, as with larger diameter, weight will be increased.

3) Weight

Heavy wheels take more energy to turn them and so will make the vehicle less efficient.

4) Material

The material used for the wheel or tyres will affect traction. A material that provides a lot of grip may help improve acceleration but will also increase friction and so could affect top speed and efficiency.

Tip: When building your environmentally friendly vehicle consider using recycled and/or recyclable materials to earn more marks.