17"s...good performance wise?

I see all kinds of circuit racers with 17"s on their cars. Are they better then smaller rims in some ways? I always hear smaller, lighter riims being considered better.

What do you mean circuit racers? Usually smaller wheels are better, but some road racers have to use larger brake packages and have to use larger wheels for fitment.

depends on torque i guess.

with civics, id prob stick with the lower sized

For a small car like a civic you'd get the best performance with a 15" wheel. Some lightweight rota slips and falken azenis are a nice combo.

The big brake kit issue makes sense. I guess since I'll never be able to afford or need a kit like that 16s will do. I'm not a serious racer or anything like that. However, i do enjoy having a car that performs well. So, I'm assuming that 16s would be a good mix of look/performance. Thanks