advice : 18's or 19's for track ?

[MTROIS]

Reading all the threads in this section, I fully understand the advantages of the 18"s in terms of cost, number of choices available, etc... but (just for my info) speaking strictly in terms of performance, aren't the 19"s supposed to be better (ie, stiffer wheel, may be lighter, etc...)?

The reason why I am asking is because today I picked up a set of OEMs in 18" so I am now wondering if down the road I should be using the 19"s (forged, etc...) or the 18"s as dedicated track wheels. One thing is sure, it looks like the Nitto 01 are a real good value for their performance.. so the choice might be an easy one if they only come in 18".

[Dascamel]

No, the contact patch will only be slightly increased with 18 to 19. But, the increased mass of rim/tire will more than offset that gain. General rule, go with the rim size you need to fit your brakes. Increasing rim width, far better than increasing radius.

[attila]

I am not even sure your contact patch will be larger with larger rim. If the entire tire outside circumpherence / diameter larger, then yes, you potentially have a larger contact patch given equal tire pressures.
The 18" wheels are generally lighter than 19", but weight differs so much between different rims that you should check the actuall weight of your choice.
The OEM 18" wheel is OK for track use but not ideal. I would recommend a little bit wider and lighter rims. (I use the OEM set as my rain setup)

[quads]

I shaved off 4 seconds at road atlanta (same day and conditions)
going from
275/35/18 front
285/35/18 rear
apex arc-8 18's (6 pounds lighter than stock zcp's)

to
275/30/19 front
295/30/19 rear
stock zcp wheels

both on michelin pilot super sports

I attribute it to a tad more traction in the rear and lower sidewall/less tire squirm

[STALKER]

Originally Posted by attila

I would love the TE37 too!!
Is there anyone here who had any negative experience with the Advan RS wheels??

I run Advan RS for my track set up. Zero isssues.