What is appealing about these wheels? Rappers and basketball players have succeeded in bringing these things into mainstream america. The trend has gotten so big that GM and Chrysler have jumped on. Chrysler doesn't surprise me as they use Snoop dog in their car commercials targeting a specific demographic.

All the major wheel companies are cashing in on the "latest fad" that really serves no mechanical advantage.

Chip foose uses them on the back of some of his creations trying to stay cutting edge but to me,,, rappers and basketball players and their "Bling Bling" should have zero influence on our precious hotrod car culture. I could understand the lowriders welcoming this fad but call me Mr. "whitebread" as I recognize where this fad started and its just not for me...:cool:

What do you guys think?

Yes or no A or B?

A
http://www.v-drivevideo.com/jerrysgallery/albums/userpics/10001/normal_Cor%20Chevell.jpg
http://www.v-drivevideo.com/jerrysgallery/albums/userpics/10001/DSCF1097.JPG

http://www.v-drivevideo.com/jerrysgallery/albums/userpics/10001/normal_Hotrods.jpg

B
http://www.v-drivevideo.com/jerrysgallery/albums/userpics/normal_30_s.jpg

It's not what I would do, I'll stick with the old school look. I like to be able to drive my cars fast and hard.

I like A #1, A#2, and the hood ornament on the boat in A#3. Seriously old school hotrod is the way to go for me. 1960 and 1970 cars weren't designed for bicycle tires. Here's my look.

I like A #1, A#2, and the hood ornament on the boat in A#3. Seriously old school hotrod is the way to go for me. 1960 and 1970 cars weren't designed for bicycle tires. Here's my look.

Sweet car!
Those SS Cragars look great on musclecars!:beers:

I think the anything bigger than an 18 looks stupid on any car! if you want a 4x4 buy a truck?????

I like 20's on my Avalanche. Also like the staggered 18/20 look on street rods. To each his own I guess. For me it's not really the rim size as much as I don't care for anything less than a 50 series on classic muscle cars.

Here is another example of Ghetto Fabulous!

http://www.v-drivevideo.com/jerrysgallery/albums/userpics/23_s_Chevelle.jpg

What is appealing about these wheels? Rappers and basketball players have succeeded in bringing these things into mainstream america. The trend has gotten so big that GM and Chrysler have jumped on. Chrysler doesn't surprise me as they use Snoop dog in their car commercials targeting a specific demographic.

All the major wheel companies are cashing in on the "latest fad" that really serves no mechanical advantage.

Chip foose uses them on the back of some of his creations trying to stay cutting edge but to me,,, rappers and basketball players and their "Bling Bling" should have zero influence on our precious hotrod car culture. I could understand the lowriders welcoming this fad but call me Mr. "whitebread" as I recognize where this fad started and its just not for me...:cool:

What do you guys think?

I think you are making too large of a generalization about the 20" (or bigger) wheels and the demographic that is appeals to. Many of the auto manufacturers are including 20" diameter wheels as standard equipment (or options) on their vehicles. If you take the time to look at some examples of this (BMW 7-series, Mercedes S-class, Porsche 911 etc) you will see that these large diameter wheels compliment these vehicles quite nicely and a 15-17" rim with a large sidewall tire would look silly.
The example of the vehicle you use in your post is on the extreme end. I, personally, dont care for the look shown in your photo (B), but to each his own. However, to use that as your "20inch wheels or bigger" example is simply a biased/skewed portrayal of the "fad".
Let me offer up some examples of the 20" wheels on some chevelles that show (IMHO) alot of style and really help to enhance the muscular image of these vehicles.
http://www.extreme-explorer.com/files/Chevelle/0509sc_70cover_02_z.jpg
http://www.extreme-explorer.com/files/Chevelle/OverhaulinVelle.jpg

bill c show nice examples of 20's on a car. the first pix of the caprice on 26's rims look like trash. there is a limit. I love the look of 20's on s nice car like( 94-96 impala) 20's on a 04-06 charger are two small, you will have a four inch gap above tire.

I think you are making too large of a generalization about the 20" (or bigger) wheels and the demographic that is appeals to. Many of the auto manufacturers are including 20" diameter wheels as standard equipment (or options) on their vehicles. If you take the time to look at some examples of this (BMW 7-series, Mercedes S-class, Porsche 911 etc) you will see that these large diameter wheels compliment these vehicles quite nicely and a 15-17" rim with a large sidewall tire would look silly.
The example of the vehicle you use in your post is on the extreme end. I, personally, dont care for the look shown in your photo (B), but to each his own. However, to use that as your "20inch wheels or bigger" example is simply a biased/skewed portrayal of the "fad".
Let me offer up some examples of the 20" wheels on some chevelles that show (IMHO) alot of style and really help to enhance the muscular image of these vehicles.


The first question I ask when a fad pops up is who started it and why.

Thats right, the big automakers now sell them as standard equipment. I made mention of that. The point is, why? I believe they saw the public buying them and wanted to sell more cars. Why did the public take to them? IMO Because people in general are like sheep and go with the latest fads. Before the rappers appeared with "DUBS" on MTV cribs, the biggest wheels were 18".

Many of todays cars were designed specifically to accomodate the large wheel fad -> Chrysler 300, Dodge magnum, Chevy SS pick-up etc.

I'm all for change if it brings good function but truth be said, rappers weren't looking for performance when they came up with these. The wheels in your pictures are a twist to the original Dub fad that our ganster rap culture cultivated and continues to refine by way of spinners and 20+ sized wheels.

Great looking cars in the pics and to each his own but for me, more rubber with less wheel in back would best fit these musclecars.:cool:

Thanks for your reply!:)

The first question I ask when a fad pops up is who started it and why.

Thats right, the big automakers now sell them as standard equipment. I made mention of that. The point is, why? I believe they saw the public buying them and wanted to sell more cars. Why did the public take to them? IMO Because people in general are like sheep and go with the latest fads. Before the rappers appeared with "DUBS" on MTV cribs, the biggest wheels were 18".

Many of todays cars were designed specifically to accomodate the large wheel fad -> Chrysler 300, Dodge magnum, Chevy SS pick-up etc.

I'm all for change if it brings good function but truth be said, rappers weren't looking for performance when they came up with these. The wheels in your pictures are a twist to the original Dub fad that our ganster rap culture cultivated and continues to refine by way of spinners and 20+ sized wheels.

Great looking cars in the pics and to each his own but for me, more rubber with less wheel in back would best fit these musclecars.:cool:

Thanks for your reply!:)

So your problem is more with rappers/ball players and the african american community in general than with the actual wheels themselves?? The trends in the United States, and most other countries for that matter, are set by the celebrities and those with money and power. Look at all the teenie boppers running around at the mall dressed like whores because of Paris Hilton. Its just the way it goes and in many cases is a powerfull force that leads to great developments.
If you want to argue the technical aspect of the wheels there are some benefits to less sidewall when it comes to lateral traction and stability. Obviously there is a tradeoff with weight and there is a balance that must be struck. Eitherway though, a larger sidewall on a tire can be bad in the twisties so there is some mechanical advantage to a larger wheel and a shorter sidewall'd tire.
Additionally, while I do feel that excessivley large and flashy chrome wheels are over-the-top and are definatly not my thing. I am appreciative for these trendsetters because now I can purchase much more tastefull larger diameter wheels for my vehicles that I feel compliment their sporty or muscular appearance.

My explorer:
20" Chrome wheels
http://www.extreme-explorer.com/files/Explorer/CityView/frontangle1.jpg

My Cayenne:
22" Techart wheels
http://www.extreme-explorer.com/files/Cayenne/CayenneEBSide.jpg

Id also point at that the Porsche Cayenne Turbo requires a 20" wheel to clear the brake rotors and calipers.

Its all a matter to taste.

My dodge has 22" centerlines on it with 45 series tires. I hit huge potholes and have never had a problem. http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/DCP_0014.JPG

Its not something you can throw a blanket statement at. Comes down to a matter of being tasteful.............and everyone has diffrent taste.

So your problem is more with rappers/ball players and the african american community in general than with the actual wheels themselves?? The trends in the United States, and most other countries for that matter, are set by the celebrities and those with money and power. Look at all the teenie boppers running around at the mall dressed like whores because of Paris Hilton. Its just the way it goes and in many cases is a powerfull force that leads to great developments.
If you want to argue the technical aspect of the wheels there are some benefits to less sidewall when it comes to lateral traction and stability. Obviously there is a tradeoff with weight and there is a balance that must be struck. Eitherway though, a larger sidewall on a tire can be bad in the twisties so there is some mechanical advantage to a larger wheel and a shorter sidewall'd tire.
Additionally, while I do feel that excessivley large and flashy chrome wheels are over-the-top and are definatly not my thing. I am appreciative for these trendsetters because now I can purchase much more tastefull larger diameter wheels for my vehicles that I feel compliment their sporty or muscular appearance.

Id also point at that the Porsche Cayenne Turbo requires a 20" wheel to clear the brake rotors and calipers.

I have no problem with rappers, ball players or the african community. Would I allow snoop doggy dog to pick out my next set of musclecar wheels? Definately no.

"Powerful force pop trends that lead to great developments!" Lol I can't say I agree with that one but no disrespect none the less.

Sure you may gain some handling from less sidewall but lets face it, these chevelles weren't originally built for canyon carving. You can get there, but not before you completely upgrade the suspension. An american musclecar's forte is for the most part, acceleration. The best way to compliment that is through traction gripping fat tires and wrinkling sidewalls.:)

Its admirable that some may appreciate trendsetters. Its seems to spawn popularity. Myself, I'm not into following the herd or making decisions based on status quo. I prefer individiallity and staying true to our "Hot Rod" roots. :thumbsup:

chevelle aren't meant for anything bigger than 18's. 20's and above make you look stupid and "ghetto" 24 and such make your car handle like **** too. 18 inch wheels look good on pro touring cars but for yours, keep it how it is, it is already a great looking car

Here ya go http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevrolet-Chevelle-1970-Chevelle-SS-Super-Clean-Green-Machine_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ6164QQihZ017QQi temZ270092554579QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Actually, I'm looking for a good set of chrome rims to fit these (http://www.michelingc.com/na_eng/Tires/X-QUARRY/Details.html). I figure that'll REALLY give people something to gripe about. :yes:

You will need to get a different speedometer gear with those. :D

...but lets face it, these chevelles weren't originally built for canyon carving...
These cars have the perfect platform for building a high-performance cornering car that can out-handle new BMWs and other high-end performance sedans, using bolt-on parts that are readily available and affordable.

Just my south Arkansas view on this
A. Looks like weak redneck CRAP from 1980. No Taste
A2. Flames on a Chevelle :sad: give me a break.
B. Looks like weak Gangsta CRAP from 2006. No Taste

BUT! the obvious thing is I don't own either car so I could give a dang less what they run.

I hope if a guy wants 15's that's what he gets and if a guy wants 22's that's what he gets. I have a set of 20's for my Malibu I like them, and I needed at least 17's to clear my brake up grades

This should be the last post on the wheel size Bashing
Thanks that is all. Now I feel better

Just my south Arkansas view on this
A. Looks like weak redneck CRAP from 1980. No Taste
A2. Flames on a Chevelle :sad: give me a break.
B. Looks like weak Gangsta CRAP from 2006. No Taste

BUT! the obvious thing is I don't own either car so I could give a dang less what they run.

I hope if a guy wants 15's that's what he gets and if a guy wants 22's that's what he gets. I have a set of 20's for my Malibu I like them, and I needed at least 17's to clear my brake up grades

This should be the last post on the wheel size Bashing
Thanks that is all. Now I feel better

Careful with that "dang" word D, up here in deez parts peeps get labelled as rednecks talking like dat. LMAO!!!http://www.riverratlife.com/forum/images/graemlins/909er.gif

and the hood ornament on the boat in A#3.
EWWW! Old ladies!!! She's probably 60 by now! ;)

Seriously, the best pictures you could find to make your point is some 80s pro-streeters and a 70s magazine cover?

You don't get out much, do you? :p

EWWW! Old ladies!!! She's probably 60 by now! ;)

Seriously, the best pictures you could find to make your point is some 80s pro-streeters and a 70s magazine cover?

You don't get out much, do you? :p

Lol... no I guess I dont!

Neither chevelle was built to be Labelled "pro street" they were both drag cars that are now registered. The magazine cover is to connect the dots to the "hotrod roots" point I was making.

The adaptation of "Dubs" is proof positive that the ghetto is shaping current market trends. The general population doesn't realize that nor do they care. Its all about fitting in and trying to fit the status quo of popularity like they were all back in high school.

I say quit worrying about 'what's popular" and let the ballers and rappers roll 30 inch gold plated spinners to match their teeth, while the rest of us performance minded musclecar freaks adopt performance enhancing mods learned from the race track.

Quit watching mtv and pick up a wrench.http://www.riverratlife.com/forum/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

This is no different than the cars of the 80s with 33" Mickey Thompsons, a full cage, and wheelie bars with 235hp under the hood... or the billet everything of the 90s.

"bigger" and "shinier" will alway have its followers, it doesn't matter who is leading the trend, or what the particular trend is.

Even some wanna-be drag-racers think this way. You know you've seen a 850 double-pumper on top of a 305 at some point.

You'll never stop the "if some is good, more is better" mentality of the masses.

This is no different than the cars of the 80s with 33" Mickey Thompsons, a full cage, and wheelie bars with 235hp under the hood... or the billet everything of the 90s.

"bigger" and "shinier" will alway have its followers, it doesn't matter who is leading the trend, or what the particular trend is.

Even some wanna-be drag-racers think this way. You know you've seen a 850 double-pumper on top of a 305 at some point.

You'll never stop the "if some is good, more is better" mentality of the masses.

I see your point but I think Dubs and tubs are worlds apart.;)

EWWW! Old ladies!!! She's probably 60 by now! ;)

Seriously, the best pictures you could find to make your point is some 80s pro-streeters and a 70s magazine cover?

You don't get out much, do you? :p

OK, She's probably 60 now. I'm 44 my cars 38 and she's 60. Guess we're all getting older. I have my own "hood ornament" here that's the same age as my car. But really I "WAS" only joking!:beers:

also you know yrs ago a set of 20 inch rims would have cost you an arm and a leg...because of the huge rims that manufactures r producing now the prices of smaller rims have dropped...u can now get 20" american racing with tires for $1650...yrs ago it would have costed $4000. I think with the right rim size and right stance without going over board can make any car aggressive. there's nothing wrong with 14" rims on a car either but i don't like having a 6in gap between my wheel well and rim.

i don't like having a 6in gap between my wheel well and rim.

6 inches? either do I.:cool:

Careful with that "dang" word D, up here in deez parts peeps get labelled as rednecks talking like dat. LMAO!!!http://www.riverratlife.com/forum/images/graemlins/909er.gif



I'm no redneck I'm Ghetto Country :waving: