MidEngineRules

Forged is stronger pound per pound but they aren't necessarily stronger than a good cast wheel based on the wheel design, especially with today's offsets putting extreme stress on the inside edge. There's no way to determine which are actually stronger without subjecting them to failure tests which no one is going to do. I prefer stronger to saving a few pounds if a heavier and thicker cast is potentially stronger. OEM is the least expensive option anyway since you have them already. The weight savings is less significant due to the tire being equally as heavy and at the perimeter. I think most who spend thousands on new wheel packages are going to believe they can feel a big difference. Maybe they can, or maybe it's just wishful thinking. The only time I can really tell is on race bikes. But there you can easily shave 50% total weight with forged or carbon fiber wheels. There's more rotating mass than just the wheels and tires. When you add it all up, the savings isn't as great in terms of % saved. And the savings is not at the outer edge where it makes the most difference. I bought my last aftermarket wheels years ago. It may be noticeable but I don't want a wheel made for dozens of different cars. Nothing special about that. I love my Spyder's wheels, especially in matt black.

spyderphile

Good explanation; thanks. Lighter wheels seem to have significant positive impact on motorcycles in particular. It seems, ridden back to back with forged/CF wheels vs cast, riders were able to perceive the difference in flickability, turn-in, etc. Besides weight savings, you do get personalization. And, yes, Spyder's wheels are good.

aryork

Right! I rode and raced (amateur) dirt bikes a lot when I was younger. Had not thought about lighter wheels in that context, but the effect would be even more pronounced on a motorcycle I would guess. I had a 250 cc MX bike most of the time and recall riding a 500 cc bike several times. Even though the 500 only weighed about 10 lb more, the additional moving mass made it feel like the gas tank was filled with lead - very hard to turn and move that bike compared to the 250. I imagine things like this are critical for superbikes on the track.

spyderphile

Yeah, riders tracking with CF wheels rave about turn-in. Even on the streets, they make a difference. The suspension needs to be tweaked accordingly as well.

Alan C.

I ordered a set of Forgeline CF205s this week. I think the fronts, 20x9, are 16 lb. and observed a rear, 20x11, on a scale at 17 lb. 13 oz. That's a good savings on unsprung weight and they are great looking with the large CF weave. Did the centers in Pearl Grey.

wizee