Why is F1 going to 18" tires?

I'm not sure what the stated reasons are, but the current 13" wheel size is totally irrelevant to what is used on roadgoing cars today, so perhaps the tire manufacturers would like to use a wheel size that allows them to carry over the racing technology to the road more effectively.

Of course, a lower profile tire will also have less tire flex, although it's not like F1 cars are sloppy on turn-in to begin with.

 

I'm sure they know better then most of us..but an 18 inch tire for racing I would think is less then ideal. That's a lot of weight being thrown around out there

 

More wheel diameter will mean less rubber sidewall diameter. Rubber is often heavier than the alloy used for wheels. It's very possible the wheel / tire package will be lighter as a result of bigger wheels.

 

IMO They look better

 

Well they will have to redesign the suspension as the sidewall on the F1 tires are designed to act as a part of the suspension with the play they have vs a low profile tire. They'll act like it's more inline with street cars and will somehow save costs, but will end up costing a lot more than just leaving it the same.

 

Because there is no real reason to stay with 13 inch rims.

 

Bigger wheels would allow bigger brakes.

Is there any change to the brakes in the rules?