On Mon, 26 Dec 2005 10:58:20 -0600, "Rob" <rdbdriver@blomand.net>
wrote:
> Hey.... I got a 2002 Civic LX 5sp with stock 14" steel wheels and
>hubcaps. Right now I do a lot of commuting and get about 39 to 42 miles per
>gallon. However don't like the looks of the cheap looking hubcaps on my
>Civic and was thinking of going to the nicer looking 15" or 16" Honda wheels
>or nice after market wheels.
>
> But, I really don't want to lose my good gas mileage that I'm getting
>with my Civic.
>
> I did some checking and my stock steel wheels, plus tires and hubcap
>weight around 31 pounds. going to a new larger wheel and tire will add
>around 10 to 15 pounds per wheel and tire.

Where did you get those figures?

> I do a lot of atv riding and no first hand at the power you will lose
>by getting a heavier bigger wheel and tire, so was wondering about the mpg
>that all Honda owners here have experienced when they install new sets of
>rims. Thanks for any advice, Rob.

As all have said, the idea behind aluminum/alloy wheels is to weigh
*less*, I think you might check again, go to some reasonable nearby
dealer and weigh the stuff yourself if you have to!

Larger wheels suggest lower-aspect tires, which will weigh less. For
a given size, more wheel and less tire might weigh a bit more for
decorative wheels, if you're really that serious, I'm sure you can
find some wheels lighter than others.

Bottom line is it's unlikely to matter beyond cosmetics.

J.