How to Calculate Rolling Radius
by C. Taylor
Rolling radius describes the radius of a wheel measured from center to tread. There are two types of rolling radius measurements used: static rolling radius and dynamic rolling radius. Static rolling radius is measured with the wheel at rest. Dynamic rolling radius is measured with the wheel in motion, and is difficult for the average person to measure. There is generally a slight expansion of the radius witnessed when the wheel is in motion. For most purposes, static rolling radius is sufficient.
Step 1
Stop the vehicle on a level, unobstructed surface.
Step 2
Find the exact center of the wheel. If this is not obvious, you can measure across the wheel until you find the longest measurement. This will be across the center. Divide this measurement by two to find the center point.
Step 3
Measure from this center point to the ground to determine static rolling radius.
References
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
Writer Bio
C. Taylor embarked on a professional writing career in 2009 and frequently writes about technology, science, business, finance, martial arts and the great outdoors. He writes for both online and offline publications, including the Journal of Asian Martial Arts, Samsung, Radio Shack, Motley Fool, Chron, Synonym and more. He received a Master of Science degree in wildlife biology from Clemson University and a Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences at College of Charleston. He also holds minors in statistics, physics and visual arts.
