Your wheels connect everything to the ground. Choosing the right wheels affects handling, tire fit, weight, and looks. Here is what you need to know.
Steel vs Aluminum
Steel wheels are virtually indestructible and cheap to replace. The tradeoff is weight - steel wheels add 3-5 lbs per corner versus aluminum. That unsprung weight noticeably affects ride quality and handling. For utility and hunting use where durability matters most, steel makes sense. For trail riding and sport applications, aluminum wins.
Beadlock Wheels
Beadlocks mechanically clamp the tire bead to the rim, preventing de-beading when you run low pressures for traction. Essential for serious mud riding and rock crawling. You can safely run 3-5 psi with beadlocks versus 8-10 psi minimum with standard rims. ITP, STI, Raceline, and Fuel make excellent powersports beadlock options.
Wheel Size and Offset
Most ATVs run 10 or 12 inch wheels. Going larger adds tire options but increases rotating mass. Offset determines how far in or out the wheel sits - positive offset tucks the wheel in, negative offset pushes it out for wider stance. Match offset to your machine's specifications to avoid rubbing and bearing stress.