What makes a rim "good"?

luttersj

luttersj

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What makes a good rim stand apart from a bad one? In looking for a new set of "summer rims" I've noticed quite a price range. From +/-$500 on up to and over $1500++. What can I look for to determine if the lower priced rims are just as good, quality-wise, as the more expensive versions? I have no interest in paying for a name but I also don't want the finish to be flaking off after 20000 miles.
 
It has to hold air, and keep the tire in place. ;) Your welcome. :D
 
Also the material the wheel is made from. A lot of companies use cheap steel and just chrome plate it and then you have 60lb wheels on your car making it sluggish and drive like crap and putting strain on bearings and other suspension components. Get a better wheel made of lightweight alloy, those are the ones that usually cost more.

Cheap wheels may look good too until you hit the first pothole and bend the crap out of them from not being heat treated properly. Spend the money and buy a reputable companies wheels.
 
but what makes a wheel company "reputable"? name recognition? For example, there's a set of 4, granted used, ACE Rage wheels on eBay right now. hell, there's even a photo of a red LS (just like mine) with the rims on it. But I'm leary about them solely because I've never heard of the brand before. I did the customary Google search but really only found people either selling them or listing them as being on their car. no good info on quality.
 
well, these days it mostly depends on whether the wheel is cast or forged.
 
Theres a couple of indicators. People are getting rid of them and you cant find info about their company. They are probably made in China and very low quality.

I had a similar issue with tires on Ebay, bought a brand I never heard of, couldnt google their company name. The sidewall on 2 tires blew out after 5000 miles. Later found out they are banned from the US because they are not DOT approved tires.
 
Your question is a bit confusing. Are you asking about rims (steel/chrome/painted) or wheels (aluminum alloy)?
 
I didn't realize there was a nomenclature difference, I guess. But for the record, I'm looking at "wheels", I guess.

Also, I found ACE's website: click
 
I would say go with the lightest wheels possible. Most of the time the lightest wheels are forged which is better anyways. I know that you dont have alot of choices, so even if they are not forged, just get the lightest you can. Also realize that the weight of the tires matters just as much as the wheels. Crappy Indonesian tires are going to way ALOT. Expensive tires (pirellis, high end Bridgestone, ect.) will way ALOT less.

luttersj said:
I didn't realize there was a nomenclature difference, I guess. But for the record, I'm looking at "wheels", I guess.

Also, I found ACE's website: click
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