Miata Mailing List: May 1996, Message #270
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   From: Andy Poling 
Subject: Re: Aftermarket wheels
   Date: Sun, 5 May 1996 00:25:08 -0400

On Fri, 3 May 1996, Helio de Oliveira wrote:
> To those who fitted bigger wheels:
> 
> Have you found the hi-speed stability increased ? I'm considering changing
> the wheels but i want to know if there is an increase in performance
> .somehow !
> 
> Since handling is near perfect at normal speeds...

I think there are better ways to improve high-speed handling if that is your
aim.  Look at putting on serious adjustable shock-absorbers/dampers and
heftier anti-roll bars... maybe even stiffer springs.

I autocross my '91 in the SCCA C Stock class so I have to use original size
wheels, but I also like to play at a nearby (OK, it's a 2hr drive) road
course.  My only mods are GAB 8-way adjustable shocks and 205/55ZR14 BFG R-1
tires (admitedly designed for road racing, though I never take them off).

High speed composure couldn't be better.  Imagine swooping over a rise,
through a left hand sweeper dipping into a right hand sweeper (bumping over
the curbing a little) at about 95 MPH and immediately braking down to about
35MPH for a hairpin turn to the left.  All with the security to do it lap
after lap all day long.  This car can handle up just about anything that's
street legal in fast twisty bits.  And it'll do it with such composure you
won't realize how fast you're going except for the wind ripping at your
helmet and shoulders.

Yes, I need to get to the track - I haven't been yet this Spring and I guess
it shows...  :-)

-Andy
'91 white - CS #311