Optimal Steering Wheel Dimensions

[JohnT]

I currently have a flat 15" (poor man's power steering!) Moto Lita steering wheel in the race car. When I raised the seat (for much better visibility and root rest to clutch operation), my right thigh began interfering with the wheel particularly when going from gas to brake and vice versa. I'm thinking I can mitigate some (or hopefully all) of the interference by changing to a smaller diameter and using a dished wheel. My choices in Moto Lita (to save the hub, and besides I like them) are 13" and 14" diameter with a 1 1/2" dish. My friend, Pythagoras, tells me that I gain .9" additional clearance with the 14" and 1.3" with the 13" wheel.

I fear that the 13" is too small for turning-in with 205/60-15 racing tires and will be more difficult to input modest steering changes. I don't have "Popeye Arms" and probably am not going to go to the gym simply to turn the durned steering wheel.

Any of you have opinions? I'd really appreciate them.

thanks

johnt

[Chuck Miller]

John,

I run a 14"/355mm Nardi w/ a little over 1" dish on a standard hub.

I use the car for everything.. including the track a couple times a year.....

I run 225 x 50's all the way around with no problem parking........

Steering wheels are a VERY personal preference, but this set-up is the best I've driven.

Hope this helps,
Cheers

[Harvey Weidman]

John,
I have a similar problem and I went to a custom 45mm spacer. Even the factory 30mm is a big help. I personally don't care for wheels much smaller than 14".
Chuck's set up has the dish and the size. mine is just a little closer. I figured if the left turn hillbillies can drive with a big steering wheel close to their chest so can I.
H