How To Choose the Right Racing Wheels

Choose racing wheels based on your racing discipline, applicable rules, tire size, and required vehicle fitment. Confirm the wheel and tire specifications together rather than selecting a wheel by diameter or appearance alone.

Bigger race wheels don’t inherently increase speed. Increasing wheel size can change rotating weight, tire dimensions, gearing effects, clearance, and handling, so use the size specified for the car, tire, and racing application. The same applies to lightweight racing wheels: Lower weight can be useful, but fitment, strength, construction, and class requirements still come first. 

Racing Wheel Measurements and Fitment

Get the basic measurements right before ordering. Wheel diameter and width are only part of the fitment equation.

• Bolt pattern: Identifies the number and spacing of the wheel studs. Match it to the hub or approved mounting system.
• Offset vs. Backspacing: Offset measures the wheel's mounting surface relative to its centerline. Backspacing measures from the mounting surface to the wheel's rear edge.
• Wheel and tire width: Match wheel width to the tire manufacturer’s approved wheel-width range.
• Final fitment: Verify the hub, brake package, studs, suspension and body clearance, tire, and applicable class requirements.

Racing Wheel Materials, Beadlocks and Accessories

Wheel construction affects weight, durability, fitment, and application. Start with what your car and class require, and then compare the available materials and features. 

Steel vs. Aluminum Racing Wheels

The main differences between steel and aluminum racing wheels are their material, weight, cost, and construction characteristics.

• Steel racing wheels: Generally prioritize strength, durability, and value for demanding racing applications.
• Aluminum racing wheels: Generally weigh less than comparable steel designs and are common where reduced wheel weight is a priority.
• Lightweight racing wheels: Compare actual wheel weight along with load requirements, construction, fitment, and racing rules rather than selecting solely by weight.

Beadlock and Wide 5 Racing Wheels

These designs solve different fitment and racing needs, so match them to the car and class.

• Beadlock racing wheels: Mechanically clamp the tire bead to the wheel, helping keep the bead seated in approved applications that may use lower tire pressures. Verify beadlock rules for your track, class, and sanctioning body.
• Wide 5 racing wheels: Use a racing-specific large five-lug hub and wheel mounting configuration. Match the wheel to the required hub style, bolt pattern, size, and class rules.

Wheel Covers, Spacers and Replacement Parts

Complete the wheel setup with accessories that match the wheel, hub, and racing application.

• Wheel covers: Vented designs allow more airflow around the wheel and brake area, while non-vented designs provide greater coverage.
• Wheel spacers and adapters: Use compatible parts that match the hub, wheel, stud length, and application.
• Replacement and setup parts: Shop hubs, studs, beadlock rings, mud plugs, valve stems, and other wheel-related hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions About Racing Wheels

What are the benefits of vented wheel covers?

Vented wheel covers allow airflow through openings in the cover and around the wheel and brake area while providing partial wheel coverage. The actual effect on brake temperature, airflow, and aerodynamics depends on the wheel-cover design, brake system, vehicle, and racing conditions. Choose vented or non-vented covers based on your application and racing rules.

Can you use wheel spacers with racing wheels?

Yes, wheel spacers can be used in applications designed or approved for them. Match the spacer to the hub, wheel, bolt pattern, studs, required clearance, and racing application. Verify adequate stud engagement and follow the wheel, hub, spacer, and vehicle manufacturers’ installation requirements, along with applicable racing rules.

How often should racing wheels be inspected or replaced?

Inspect race car wheels regularly and after impacts, contact, or other events that could cause damage. Look for cracks, bends, deformation, damaged mounting holes, beadlock damage, and other signs of wear. Replacement intervals depend on wheel construction, use, damage history, and manufacturer requirements; replace any wheel that fails inspection or exceeds its specified service limits.