I never would have guessed that. I guess I need work on my vocabulary.
Actually those Conestoga wagon wheels themselves do not affect traction because traction is all in the tires. In theory, the lower aspect ratio tires have improved handling because there is less sidewall flex but there is diminishing returns to scale. Since there is so little cushioning in those tires, they ride like a Conestoga wagon and potholes will blow out the tire and bend the wheels. Clever idea by wheel and tire designers - they sell lots more replacements than normal!