THE IMPORTANCE OF RIMS IN KARTING
We
have already repeatedly emphasised how all the technical aspects
of a kart significantly contribute to achieving a top performance.
A basic vehicle like a kart is extremely responsive to any adjustment
and each accessory can affect the performance in a considerable
way. For this reason, the Freeline accessory range, which we refer
to in the various in-depth analyses on this web site, is manufactured
following a production process marked by extremely high quality
standards. From the design up to the production of every single
accessory, Freeline engineers have to optimise every parameter
in pursuit of the top performance, both as far as construction
and final results on the track are concerned. Thanks to the superior
quality features of its rims, Freeline managed to achieve leading
market positions. In particular, the Freeline magnesium rims are
among the most widely used all over the world. Rims are noticeably
important accessories since they have the essential task of enabling
tyres and chassis to work under top conditions, which is a crucial
aspect from the technical point of view. The range of Freeline
rims is divided into two series, depending on the material they
are made of:
- Magnesium
- Aluminium
Let’s go through the differences and features of the two
different solutions. Because of the properties of the alloy they
are made of, magnesium rims are lighter and favour the discharge
of the heat generated by the friction between tyres and track.
This property enables the tyres to preserve a constant inside
pressure, thus ensuring also optimum long-distance performances.
On the other hand, the rims made of magnesium, which is a valuable
and more fragile material, are more expensive and shock-sensitive
than aluminium rims. In consequence of the above said qualities,
magnesium rims offer best performance on very “grippy”
tracks and with high temperatures. Aluminium rims, on the contrary,
ensure higher structural resistance, but lower heat discharge
during use. This property can contribute to a pressure increase
in tyres. Therefore, aluminium rims should be mainly used in cold
or rainy weather conditions.
Rims are available in the following sizes:
- dry track: front 130 mm ; rear 210 mm;
- wet track: front 120 mm ; rear 180 mm;
The rims used can determine a different set-up; a possible adjustment
is that of using 120-mm rims on the front also in dry track conditions.
This choice offers better trajectories into bends.