What is a safe clearance between the brake calipers and wheels? I have the JCW (R53) brake calipers and read that Motegis TrakLites 2's in 15 inch clear the JCW brakes. Well, they do, but with only 5mm to spare. The spokes are fine almost 2 inch clearance to calipers. Its between that barrel and caliper that is a tight fit.
Is it safe?
Do the barrels of the wheel flex past 5mm during track use?

 

haha on my volks and brembo bbk i think i have like 2mm of clearance

 

Wheels have been known to flex enough to get a FSAE into a state of positive camber, but then that was when the wheel wasnt nearly strong enough for the grip levels the car was generating. This usually results from the team making their own wheels.



This is not likely to be a problem on a street car.

Basically, the tight clearance on your car wont be an issue.

 

That is reassuring then. Also plan on running tall sidewall tire like 205/50-15 or 225/45-15 enough to absorb impact. It has 5mm spacers on and plan on putting 8mm or possibly 10mm because the further the wheel goes out the more slope in the wheel's concave gives. Like 3 or 4mm out would give the caliper like an inch clearance which I'd be more comfortable with, the way I drive. Anybody got MINI Madness 8mm spacers they want to sell? Thanks guys!

 

Quote:

Originally Posted by toddtce

3mm is fine. I believe that 3mm clearance in any direction is more than ample

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex@tirerack

That's our margin as well! Alex

My question was is would this 3mm clearance margin also apply between the caliper and wheel barrel?

Thanks, I guess I am fine then!!