good question
larger dia. wheels tend to give you the following advantages
(within reasonable limits, and assuming careful selection of components)
room for larger brakes
less tire sidewall flex
lighter total tire/rim weight
more effective brake cooling
more road to tire contact area
more consistant braking, (see above)
slower tire wear due to the slower rotation per distance traveled
the larger contact area, and less sidewall flex allows more aggressive driving
slightly more pavement to frame/oil pan clearance
EXAMPLE
most guys Ive talked to suggest that swapping from the stock 16" to 17' wheels made the car brake and handle better but ride a bit stiffer
the smooth ride quality tends do be less forgiving as theres less GIVE or cushion in the tires, on bumps
larger dia. wheels tend to give you the following advantages
(within reasonable limits, and assuming careful selection of components)
room for larger brakes
less tire sidewall flex
lighter total tire/rim weight
more effective brake cooling
more road to tire contact area
more consistant braking, (see above)
slower tire wear due to the slower rotation per distance traveled
the larger contact area, and less sidewall flex allows more aggressive driving
slightly more pavement to frame/oil pan clearance
EXAMPLE
most guys Ive talked to suggest that swapping from the stock 16" to 17' wheels made the car brake and handle better but ride a bit stiffer
the smooth ride quality tends do be less forgiving as theres less GIVE or cushion in the tires, on bumps