SEMA has released the SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) Ride Guide, a new manual that includes technical test data regarding the effects of plus-sizing wheels for select vehicles.

These guides are designed to equip sales staff with data-supported comparisons to assist consumers in understanding how plus-sizing will affect the ride and handling of their vehicle. The goal is to better understand the changes of vehicle handling dynamics in relation to the customization of wheels and tires.

The information contained within these brochures was researched and provided by the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR).

“The purpose of these guides is to provide sales staff with the data they need to help a customer make an informed and confident decision on the purchase of their new wheel and tire package,” said WTC Senior Council Manager, Clayton Drescher. Included is easy-to-read data on such common tire performance criteria as: ride comfort, road grip, steering firmness, directional response and steering speed. Based on a customer’s preference in each category, a wheel and tire package can be selected that will meet their wants and needs.

Guides have been created for two of the most-customized sectors with the ninth generation Ford F-150, representing the full-sized pickup truck segment; and the 2014 Mazda Mazda3, representing the front-wheel drive compact sedan sector.

For copies of the WTC Ride Guide or information about the research contained within, visit www.sema.org/ride-guide, contact Clayton Drescher at 909-978-6696 [email protected].