I always wondered why stock cars have quick release steering wheels, a safety measure of some kind, an anti-theft device? Some info would be helpful now that the subject has a thread. Thank you.
On the street they certainly serve as a theft deterrent (as long as you take it with you or at least put it in the trunk; otherwise it's more of a theft opportunity), however the main benefit of a detachable wheel is to make getting in (and especially) getting out of the car easier. Although I like to think NOT having one helps keep me more flexible,