As an automotive expert with extensive knowledge in the field of mechanics and engineering, I can provide a comprehensive answer to the question of whether bigger wheels make a car go faster.

Firstly, it's important to understand the basic principles of how wheels affect a vehicle's speed. The speed of a vehicle is determined by the rotational speed of its wheels, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). The larger the wheel, the more distance it covers with each rotation. This is due to the fact that the circumference of a wheel is directly proportional to its diameter. The formula for the circumference of a wheel is given by \( C = \pi d \), where \( C \) is the circumference and \( d \) is the diameter of the wheel. Therefore, a larger diameter wheel will have a larger circumference and thus cover more ground with each rotation.

However, the relationship between wheel size and speed is not as straightforward as it might seem. There are several factors to consider:


1. Tire Rolling Resistance: Larger wheels often come with wider tires, which can increase rolling resistance. This means more energy is needed to keep the wheel rotating at a given speed, which could potentially slow the car down.


2. Aerodynamic Drag: Larger wheels can also affect the aerodynamics of a car, particularly if they are wider. Wider tires can create more drag, which is a force that opposes the motion of the vehicle and can reduce its speed.


3. Weight: Larger wheels are generally heavier than smaller ones. The increased weight can negatively impact acceleration and overall performance, as the engine has to work harder to move the additional mass.


4. Transmission Gearing: The gearing of a car's transmission can also be affected by wheel size. Larger wheels might require different gear ratios to maintain optimal engine RPM for acceleration and fuel efficiency.


5. Traction: Wider tires can provide better traction, which can be advantageous in certain driving conditions. Better traction can help a car accelerate faster and maintain higher speeds.


6. Efficiency: While larger wheels can potentially cover more ground with each rotation, they also require more energy to rotate. This can lead to decreased fuel efficiency if not properly balanced with other factors.

In conclusion, the impact of wheel size on a car's speed is multifaceted and depends on a variety of factors. While larger wheels can theoretically allow a car to go faster if they rotate at the same RPM, the practical implications of increased rolling resistance, weight, and potential decrease in efficiency must be taken into account. It's not simply a matter of bigger being better; the optimal wheel size for speed and performance is a balance of these considerations.

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Do bikes with larger wheels go faster than ones with small wheels? Yes; provided the wheels are turning at the same RPM. You have to put proportionately more effort into turning a big wheel but it will go faster if you can keep it spinning at the same rate as a small one.read more >>