fenders vs. no fenders

[slideways...]

Originally Posted by KiwiBacon

If the F1 guys were allowed fenders (mudguards) then you can bet your life savings they'd be using them.
The only way to completely eliminate air resistance is to have it turning in a vacuum, the difference in high/low pressure zones over a moving vehicle is insignificant in comparison.

i understand. but the lower the pressure around the wheels, the less resistance they face when moving. its not even close to eliminated, but most of the front aero thats not used for pure downforce is focused on reducing drag across the wheels. its why the new chassis has a front wing that mimics the "3D" wings that touring cars use in back. with a more sloped profile on the ends, and a smoother transition in the middle. plus the mid chassis aero that directs air over the rear wheels.