What are advantages & disadvantages of Alloy Wheels?

Alloy wheels

What are Alloy wheels?

Generally, manufacturers use the term ‘Alloy wheels’ to refer to the wheel rims made of Aluminium and/or Magnesium alloys. Hence, some people also term them as ‘Mag Wheels’. This is because of the fact that Magnesium metal is one of the most important constituent elements of these wheels. All modern day cars widely use alloy wheels and their popularity is increasing rapidly.

In addition to the superb styling that these wheels offer, there are several engineering advantages of using alloy wheels. Firstly, they are lighter than the steel wheels of the corresponding size. The lightweight of these wheels is advantageous not only in terms of weight reduction, but it also improves the ride and handling of the vehicle. They also help to steer the vehicle easily.

The main reason behind this is- the wheels of any vehicle belong to that part of the entire vehicle which is not supported by the suspension system. More weight of the unsupported systems results in more jerks being experienced by the passengers thereby lowering the ride quality. It also affects the handling of the vehicle. Thus, the lower the weight of such systems, the better is the ride and handling of the vehicle. Thus, the alloys improve the ride quality of the vehicle.

Advantages of using alloy wheels:

  1. The improved exterior styling of the vehicle.
  2. They have more strength compared to steel rims.
  3. Reduction in overall weight of the vehicle.
  4. Improves ride and handling.

Disadvantages of alloy wheels:

The only significant disadvantage of employing these wheels is that they cost more than the steel wheels.

Most of the vehicle manufacturers now offer alloy wheels as a standard fitment on the vehicles. It is also possible to fit them as an aftermarket fitment.

For more information on alloy-wheels, please click here.

Watch here how they manufacture the alloy wheels:

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