Wheels have come a long way in design since their invention. The wheels of today come in an unlimited variety of styles and colors to fit any drivers needs and desires. The right set of wheels can give any vehicle a completely different look.
Steel wheels have been a basic factory standard on cars for decades. These wheels are cheap and usually not aesthetically pleasing. They will usually be covered with decorative hub caps. The use of steel wheels is slowly being phased out as alloy wheels are becoming cheaper to produce.
Alloy wheels are commonly made from aluminum or magnesium alloy metals, and have been commonly referred to as "mags". Available in a number of sizes, these wheels can improve the performance and handling of a car. They can also add to the overall appearance. These wheels are light and strong, and are a very popular option for performance cars.
Chrome refers to the shiny nickel finish that is applied to wheels. This style has grown to be a popular addition to cars and trucks despite having a heavy weight. Chrome wheels come in a variety of sizes, but 20 inch, or "dubs," chrome rims and larger are most popular. This type of wheel offers no performance benefit, thus serving primarily aesthetic values.
Spinner rims have grown in popularity in recent history. These rims have an appendage stemming in the wheel hub that will keep spinning after the vehicle has stopped moving. Similar to chrome wheels, this option serves no performance value, and is strictly aesthetic. These wheels come in a variety of designs and colors, and tend to be very expensive compared to other wheel types.
Keep in mind the types of wheels used on a vehicle can drastically alter the handling and general driving properties. Large or heavy wheels should not be used on small cars, as they tend to handle and react better with smaller and lighter wheels. The opposite can be true for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. If you are in the market for a new set of wheels and tires, a specialist at any tire store can be of great assistance in making the best decision.
