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TECHART-to buy or not

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Old 05-23-2006, 10:48 AM
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SilverSteel
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Default TECHART-to buy or not

I have a 997S cab and really like the Techart Formulas (19's since I don't want to buy new tires). I've read on some of those other forums that they are like anchors. Can you guys weigh-in before I take the plunge...
Old 05-23-2006, 11:50 AM
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gravedgr
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Looks good, very heavy. More show than go.
Old 05-23-2006, 12:10 PM
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Edgy01
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Why people are buying aftermarket wheels is beyond me. Porsche contracts for some of the best wheels both mechanically and cosmetically, from BBS. I suppose if you have a silver 911 you have to do something to make it more distinctive. But you pay for it in performance,--they're quite heavy.

Dan
Old 05-23-2006, 12:38 PM
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JohnnyBahamas
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Only since you asked... I wouldn't. It's a Porsche, it would look good on blocks. I'd only consider wheels that reduced weight like Kinesis one piece. Consider that people are paying $8000+ for lighter brakes to remove 30+ lbs. per wheel.

If I had to I'd change wheels... but only for something lighter.
Old 05-23-2006, 01:12 PM
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allegretto
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Wheel Enhancement for example has a very large selection of wheels from many different manufacturers. Techart makes some good accesories, but wheels are not among them. I am putting their steering wheel in today. It is beautiful and I'll post some pics.

Lobster claws are technically a very good wheel, but like many engineering-designed object fall a little short on the looks. I ordered some HRE's for mine that are very light weight and georgous, but to each their own. There are pros and cons in all the choices so do what makes you feel good.
Old 05-23-2006, 01:12 PM
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frayed
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No way. anchors
Old 05-23-2006, 02:27 PM
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Edgy01
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It's interesting that the lobster claws are the lightest of the current line of wheels for hte 997. But they are still relatively heavy,--but then, you are taling a MASSIVE wheel. 19 inches by 11 inches. Nothing small about that! (And I remember when 8x16s were considered far out!)

Dan
Old 05-23-2006, 04:55 PM
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jcnesq
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I almost went for Ruf wheels (which are a little similar to Techarts) but they are both heavy - maybe 28 lbs in the rear. I ended up with Champion RG5's - very light (20# rear, 19# front), also very strong, and I'm very happy with them. Got tired of the lobster claws. Have dealt with Wheel Enhancement (in person) for more than 10 years, and highly recommend them.
Old 05-23-2006, 04:57 PM
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gravedgr
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Originally Posted by Edgy01
It's interesting that the lobster claws are the lightest of the current line of wheels for hte 997. But they are still relatively heavy,--but then, you are taling a MASSIVE wheel. 19 inches by 11 inches. Nothing small about that! (And I remember when 8x16s were considered far out!)

Dan
No kidding, Dan. 20 years ago I got my first car (a '78 Camaro) and the first thing I did was swap wheels - 14x7 on the front, and 15x10 steamrollers on the rear. I think the only thing on 10" wheels back then was the Countach.

As for why? I almost always add aftermarket wheels for the uniqueness. Its the same reason Porsche offers tens-of-thousands of dollars in options straight from the factory.
Old 05-23-2006, 08:10 PM
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SilverSteel
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You guys confirmed what I already knew. I guess I'll keep the damned lobsters. I agree, Porsche makes great wheels, but what the hell happened with the lobster claws. I don't care for heavily spoked wheels--I prefer 5 thin ones so I can see the inside of my cleeeeean rims and my red brake calipers. That said, I'll stay in a holding pattern until something just grabs me. Something lighter than what I have. Thank all of you for "weighing-in" with your comments. I guess you can call me the silver lobster going forward.
Old 05-23-2006, 09:37 PM
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A little OT but, I thought about the switch as well (to Techart) with new tires until I saw the new 997 Turbo wheels then I suddenly appreciated my Sport Designs.



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