There are two main reasons that anybody would want to buy a set of alloy wheels for their car. First of all, they are lighter than the ordinary steel wheels that are found on most vehicles, meaning that the unsprung weight (Unsprung weight is a term used to describe that part of a vehicle's mass that is directly connected to the wheels, and not isolated through the suspension.) of the car is reduced, increasing performance and handling.
However, by far and away the main reason that most people decide to purchase a set of alloy wheels, is because they look good!
When choosing a set of alloy wheels, to a certain extent, the decision is determined by the make and model of your vehicle, although in today’s market, manufacturers of alloy wheels generally make all of their leading designs available in most rim sizes and stud patterns.
Probably the hardest decision faced by anyone looking to buy a set of alloy wheels, is the choice of style. There are literally thousands of different designs available to suit all tastes.
What follows is by no means a strict guide to the style that you should, or should not buy for your particular type of vehicle. All tastes are different and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. They are, however, popular suggestions as to what might be best for any particular type of vehicle, based on many years of professional experience in the alloy wheel retail market.
Three spoke alloy wheels - These were very popular when they were first released. Owners of all types of vehicle flocked to purchase a set of these purely based on the novelty factor that they offered at the time. Today however, three spoke wheels have gone out of fashion and very few people choose this type of wheel.
Five and six spoke alloy wheels - These are probably the most common style of alloy wheels currently available. They are very versatile and tend to suit almost any type of vehicle. Although it is generally accepted that you should choose wider spokes for the larger vehicles as the slim spoked wheels can look out of place, as the three spoke wheels might. For your standard family vehicle it would probably be best to stick to something smooth and simple, you don't want the car to be dominated by a set of outlandish alloys.
Twin and multi-spoke alloy wheels - If you are purchasing a set of alloy wheels for a prestige or sports car, sometimes a simple, smooth five or six spoke wheel just doesn't do it justice and can look a little understated. In these situations it might be worth considering a more stylish twin or multi-spoke wheel that will better suit the overall look and feel of the vehicle.
Other style factors - There are other style factors to consider. Some alloy wheels have an open centre with exposed bolts, these tend to also be multi-spoke wheels and have a very 'rally car' type feel to them. Also you should bear in mind that when you buy wheels that have fewer and thinner spokes, your brake pads will be much more visible, this is fine if your brakes are relatively new and in good condition, in some instances being able to see a set of high quality, performance brakes can actually improve the appearance and appeal of a vehicle.
Just remember, there are no rules as to what style of alloy wheel you should purchase for your car. These are just suggestions, you may find them helpful in making a decision on what style you want to go for, and I hope you do.
About The Author: http://www.topgear.co.uk.
