A beadlock wheel is a type of wheel used in off-road vehicles that locks the tires bead to the wheel using a clamping force generated by the tightening of a set of bolts that thread into the wheel and apply force to the beadlock ring which mechanically clamps and seals the tires outer bead to the wheel. This allows the end user to drop air pressure to a very low level, which increases the size of the tires contact patch, which in turn increases traction, flotation, and more. The purpose of a beadlock wheel is to prevent wheels from dismounting when placed under massive amounts of torque load and lower-than-normal tire pressure. Beadlock wheels are for extreme off-roading use and are not for everyone. Here are some pros and cons of beadlock wheels:
Pros:
- You can air down, way down. This means more traction in sand, snow, rocks, and more.
- Beadlock wheel rims (the outermost edge) are inherently stronger and can take the abuse of beating them against rocks.
- They look cool.
Cons:
- Beadlock wheels are not approved by the Department of Transportation and are illegal in some states.
- Bolts carry the possibility of flying off, which can be massively dangerous for other drivers at freeway speeds and could mean serious trouble for you behind the wheel.
- Beadlock wheels are expensive.
Whether or not to install beadlock wheels depends on several factors, such as what the vehicle will be used for. If its mostly road driving and you never air your tires down, then you dont need them. In fact, they will probably hurt more than help. If you go off-road a lot and airing down to 12 psi or below is necessary, then beadlock wheels may be a good option.
