Quote:
Originally Posted by elcarajo
The tire width I understand, but not the wheelsize. The tire diameter and circumference remain the same, so why does the amount of rubber between rim and road matter?
Not arguing or being a smartass. I've heard it before, so I'm presuming there's truth to it... I just don't get it.
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+1 to chris719 on cost of wheels. Cost of tires is also a factor, 18" tires are usually less expensive than 19" tires.
Smaller diameter wheels often have narrower widths, allowing a narrower tire.
Another reason is that winter roads usually have more potholes, and a smaller wheel with a taller tire is less likely to be damaged by a pothole (more rubber between wheel and road to absorb impact).
Not all of these factors apply in every case, and you can certainly get a good winter package without changing wheel diameter, but the smaller diameter is often preferred.