| Best Choice |
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American Racing Wheels Baja Satin Black Wheel | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
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American Racing Outlaw II Machined Wheel | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
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American Racing Wheel with Chrome Finish | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
- 1. American Racing Wheels Baja Satin Black Wheel
- 2. American Racing Outlaw II Machined Wheel
- 3. American Racing Wheel with Chrome Finish
- 4. American Racing Estrella Machined Finish & Clear Coat
- 5. American Racing Off Road Wheel with Machined Finish
- 6. American Racing Custom Machined Wheel with Clearcoat
- 7. American Racing Hot Rod Torq Thrust II Polished Wheel
American Racing has been in the business of wheels since the 1950s when it introduced its first classic wheel. The wheel manufacturing company has decades of experience designing a number of wheels for drag racing, towing, cruising, and any other motorsports. The wheels also come with all sorts of finishes and are made out of high-grade steel or malleable aluminum.
With so many racing rims to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on the perfect set for your vehicle. From Torq Thrust wheels to Baja Satins, we’ve put together a list of some of the top-rated and best American Racing wheels to help you make an informed buying decision.
The Best American Racing Wheels
One of the best American Racing wheels we found is the AR172 Baja Satin Black Wheel. It’s simple yet elegant and aggressive look really makes a difference on your car, truck, SUV, or Jeep. Wheels start out with a 15-inch diameter and run up to 17 inches. They come with a satin black finish for added protection and shine. Plus, the center cap is painted and features the American Racing emblem right in the middle.
The wheels come with a lifetime structural warranty and a one-year finish warranty to protect against peeling and lifting. Plus, they are satin black machined for a more enhanced look. Note that the lug nuts are not included, and you may need to buy specific ones to mount the wheel to your hub. They are developed out of a powerful and durable steel that increases performance, looks, and load capacity.
- Steel design
- Satin black finish
- Several sizes
- Brand American Racing
- Model Baja Satin Black
- Weight 22 lbs.
Steel constructed
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Lightweight
Lug nuts not included
Dull spoke pattern
These American Racing Outlaw II machined wheels feature a unique design and finish. Rather than a black color, they include a metallic chrome that makes them stand out from the standard silver wheel. The spokes are also interesting and look different from the mundane spokes on every other vehicle you see on the road. Wheels start at 14 inches and range to 17 inches in diameter.
The machined face wheel is constructed out of a lightweight aluminum, which is both a good and bad thing. The alloy is lighter and capable of increasing carrying capacity, but it is also less durable than steel. Aluminum tends to be softer and can be damaged by dings and dents more easily. On the other hand, aluminum tends to not rust as easily.
- Cast aluminum
- Circular spoke design
- Clear coat
- Brand American Racing
- Model AR62 Outlaw II
- Weight 15 lbs.
Machined constructed
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Less prone to rusting versus steel
Lug nuts not included
Chrome center cap could rust
This chrome-cast wheel from American Racing is a great choice as a truck wheel. It’s six-pointed spoke design is unique, and the chrome finish will make it shine on the road or in the parking lot. The wheel comes in a range of sizes varying from 17 to 20 inches in diameter.
The wheels come with a hefty load capacity range of around 2,500 pounds. You will need longer lug nuts to mount the wheels to your vehicle, but these don’t come with any. The finish will help prevent rust. However, the center hole may be too large on some model cars’ hubs. You will need to do some research to see if they will fit your vehicle properly.
- Aggressive spoke design
- Chrome finish
- Hefty load capacity
- Brand American Racing
- Model Mainline
- Weight 23 lbs.
Several diameter sizes
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Finish prevents rusting
Center hole may be too large for some vehicles
Lug nuts not included
Require longer lug nuts
This is a lightweight and stylish American Racing wheel for either a car, truck, SUV, or Jeep. These wheels feature the most sizes of our choices and ranges from between 13 to 18 inches in diameter. They also include several widths, offsets, and backspaces for extra convenience and versatility.
The Estrellas feature a unique and interesting five-star spoke design. The center cap is made out of a sturdy and reliable chrome. They have been known to increase vehicle performance when it comes to gas mileage. They may not be compatible with all tires, so you need to do some research to see if they fit yours.
- Chrome finish
- Cast aluminum
- Five-point spoke design
- Brand American Racing
- Model Estrella
- Weight 22 lbs.
Several diameter sizes
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Machined wheels
Lower load range
Lug nuts not included
May not be compatible with all tires
The Ansen wheel from American Racing combines a satin black look with a machined finish aluminum. They are basically an upgraded and enhanced version of the Ansen Sprint. This blending of the two alloys provides a stunning look that really improves the look of your vehicle. They come in a number of different sizes from 15 to 20 inches in diameter with several backspacing and offset choices as well.
They are also lightweight and weigh 24 pounds. This means they can carry a hefty load at nearly 2,000 pounds. They are developed out of a chromium compound for additional strength, looks, and performance. The aluminum component is better at resisting rust, but it is also weaker and more prone to damage.
- Machine finish
- Satin black ring
- Blend of aluminum and satin
- Brand American Racing
- Model Ansen
- Weight 24 lbs.
Several diameter sizes
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Large load capacity
Lug nuts not included
May require longer lug nuts
Cast aluminum may show more damage
American Racing prides itself on making wheels built for speed, power, and performance. These are not an exception. They are machined aluminum and look excellent on any vehicle. They feature a five-pointed star spoke design and a large center badge with the American Racing symbol. They come in various sizes but nothing over 16 inches in diameter.
The wheels include several backspacing and offsets to fit multiple vehicle makes and models. They include a lifetime structural warranty, but the lug nuts are not included. They are also lightweight due to their aluminum construction. One thing to note is the center caps may rust over time.
- Five-point spoke design
- Clear coat finish
- Aluminum
- Brand American Racing
- Model Custom Wheels
- Weight 23 lbs.
Several diameter sizes
Lifetime structural warranty and one-year finish warranty
Machined wheels
Various backspacing and offsets
Cast aluminum
Center caps may rust
Lug nuts not included
One of the more popular wheel brands of American Racing wheels is the VN515 Torq Thrust II. It features a five-pointed star spoke design with a clear-coated polished finish that really stands out in the sun. The wheels are available in six sizes (14 to 18 inches and 20 inches) and various widths and offsets and would make a great addition to any sports or muscle car.
As one of the best aftermarket wheels, each American Racing Torq Thrust II wheel comes with a lifetime structural warranty but drops the finish warranty on account it does not include a coating. Lug nuts are also not included with these wheels, and you may need longer ones to accommodate them. The wheels are rather lightweight and easy to maintain.
- Five-point spoke design
- Clear coat finish
- Aluminum
- Brand American Racing
- Model Torq Thrust II VN 515
- Weight 14 lbs.
Several diameter sizes
Lifetime structural warranty
Various backspacing and offsets
Center caps may rust
Lug nuts not included
No finish warranty/no finish
Best American Racing Wheels Buying Guide
American Racing designs wheels for those who want to stand out in a crowd of similar vehicles. While specifically built for larger SUVs, trucks, and Jeeps, the wheels are a great fit for smaller cars and pickups as well. The wheels range from 13 inches in diameter all the way up to 22 inches and come with several backspacing and offset options to ensure they fit just about any make and model you can think of.
American Racing features several wheel options, and they are designed for more than just making sure your car gets from point A to point B. If you need to swap out your wheels because your old ones are damaged, American Racing offers great budget options that look great. The company also has higher-priced wheels built for power and speed.
Why Do You Need American Racing Wheels
Wheels are designed for increased mobility and comfort, but American Racing enhanced theirs even further. The company makes sure to develop each wheel out of a durable cast-aluminum alloy or sturdy steel material. This makes the wheels strong, reliable, and long-lasting so you stay on the road longer.
Specifically designed for racing and enhanced performance, American Racing wheels are a tough breed. Each one is specifically handcrafted to ensure it performs well under pressure and looks great on your vehicle. They make your vehicle look better, drive better, and are more reliable and dependable than factory or stock wheels.
- American Racing wheels are large, durable, and more reliable than standard wheels.
- They are built for speed, off-roading, and enhanced performance.
- Swapping out your old wheels for American Racing wheels makes your vehicle look better.
- They are better at protecting your tires.
Types of American Racing Wheels
Since American Racing wheels are so diverse, it can be difficult to decide on a specific set. They come in different sizes, colors, and spoke designs. But the main thing to keep in mind is what material they are constructed out of. You can choose from a high-density steel alloy or a malleable yet sturdy aluminum.
You should also consider what type of coating is on the wheel. This stylistic finish can better protect it from rusting or weathering. By choosing either satin, gloss, matte, or chrome, you get a different shine and look for your wheels.
- Steel
Each wheel is developed out of a different alloy or material that makes it more dependable and durable. One type of American Racing wheel you can find is a tough steel alloy metal. Hydraulic machines press the metal into steel billets to better reinforce the wheel. The steel can also come milled or with a glass black machined look. Milling is the process of providing more depth to the wheel. Hydraulics are used to enhance the wheel by adding a machined lip.
To break it down even further, the alloy is a blend of iron and carbon, which is cast together to increase durability and strength. However, since the steel is molded and pressed with several other pieces of metal, this process makes the metal quite heavy. Steel American Racing wheels are better equipped to handle difficult terrain or tow heavy trailers.
- Aluminum
American Racing wheels designed out of aluminum tend to have a more shiny or glossy look to them due to their design process. The material makes each wheel more malleable, and this helps the manufacturer design more elaborate spokes and wheels. However, this also makes the wheels more prone to damage, so if you sideswipe a curb you may see a more defined impact.
One of the best qualities about aluminum American Racing wheels is their weight. They are lighter than steel wheels due to the way they are built. American Racing also designs what it calls AR Forged aluminum wheels. These are made from 6061 forged aluminum and are handcrafted to order by size, style, fitment, and finish. The material is one of the best ways to prevent rust from forming on your wheels.
What to Look for When Buying American Racing Wheels
There are several components that make up a wheel. They’ve come a long way since they were initially used for wagons and carts. To make it simple, we’ve listed a few of the most important features of the wheel and their functions
One of the things everyone notices first about a wheel is the spokes. These are the spider-like webbed formations on the front of each wheel. Some are elaborate, while others are less luxurious and more mundane. Wheels can also come in various different colors but are more commonly found in black, chrome, and metallic.
- Outboard Face
The outboard face is basically the part of the wheel you see on the vehicle. It’s referred to as the outboard face because it faces towards the road and includes all the components that make it a wheel. Parts such as the spokes, plates, and rim all make up the wheel and provide the structure for it as well.
You may also hear the outboard face called the “spider” due to its circular shape and the spokes branching off from it like a spider web. The spokes define how the wheel looks and give each wheel an individual design. The outboard face can be made out of a number of coatings and finishes, including chrome-plated, gloss, or satin.
- Plates/Rim/Bolt Circle/Center Bore
A wheel’s plate is the central section containing the bolt patterns for the lugs. This section bolts to the wheel hub and ensures the wheel is properly attached to your truck, car, SUV, or Jeep without sliding or wobbling around.
Then there’s the rim. This acts as the entire outer portion of the wheel. It contains the spokes, face, and faceplate. The rim is also what is used to determine whether or not the wheel will mount onto your vehicle. As we noted earlier, the wheel sizes for American Racing wheels range anywhere from 13 to around 22 inches in diameter.
Rounding out what makes up the wheel is the bolt circle. This is where you find the bolt holes for the lug nuts that attach the wheel to the hub. Wheels typically feature a five lug nut pattern that secures the wheel to the hub. You want to make sure your wheel’s lug pattern matches both your tire and hub.This is also where the center bore is that includes the empty hole on the center of the wheel that contains the faceplate with the logo of the manufacturing company.
- Offset
While technically not a component of the wheel, it is still an important factor. The offset is how the wheel is mounted onto the vehicle, and it can be placed in one of three ways: zero, positive, or negative. It is measured in millimeters.
Wheels that are perfectly aligned with the hub are considered to be at a zero offset, while a negative offset sees the wheel brought a bit closer to the mounting hub. The positive offset pulls the wheel towards the front of the mounting hub. While mainly done for looks, it can impact ride quality when braking and accelerating as well.
- Size
The size of the wheel is one of, if not the most, important factors to consider when you are looking at new wheels. They will typically range anywhere from 13 to 20 inches in diameter but can be larger or smaller depending on the type of car or vehicle. No matter what vehicle you have—Chevy, Jeep, or Ford—make sure the wheel is compatible with your stock tires and that they won’t rub or touch any part of your vehicle while driving.
You can find the diameter of your tires stamped on the rubber sidewall. This will determine what size wheel you will need. For example, the number 255/55R18 contains a lot of information not necessary for the wheel. What you should focus on is the last number in the sequence, R18. That is the diameter of the wheel, and it determines what size wheel you need.
Tips for Buying and Using American Racing Wheels
There are some things you should know before you buy American Racing wheels. Wheels are not one-size-fits-all, so be careful when making a purchase. You should note the tire size on your vehicle and compare them with the wheels you are looking at. Keep in mind that if you go above a center diameter, you will have to get a lift kit or suspension kit for your car.
Note the backspacing of the wheels as well. This is the width of the wheel and the mounting plate on your vehicle. Larger wheels may end up rubbing or bumping against the plate. When this happens, they either won’t fit properly or may ruin the drive. Also, make a note of the lug patterns on your wheels to see if you need more lug nuts or larger ones.
- You should note the lug nut pattern on your wheels to ensure they match your tires and hub. There will typically be five or six lug nuts but can be up to eight.
- Check to see if the tires are compatible with your wheels.
- Make sure your wheels have enough backspacing to fit properly and securely on your car, truck, SUV, or Jeep.
Best American Racing Wheels FAQs
Swapping out your wheels is a great way to enhance the look and style of your vehicle. Whether you want to increase your vehicle’s performance or ensure it runs more smoothly, American Racing wheels are great for cruising around or racing. But you may still have a few questions about your American Racing wheels, and we’re here to help with a few answers.
The maximum capacity of a wheel is how much weight it can carry before losing integrity. Steel rims have a higher load rating than aluminum rims due to their construction. Lug nuts can also impact how much weight the wheel holds. The more lug nuts, the more weight the wheel can carry.
The two most common types of wheels are steel and aluminum, which we touched on a bit above. Steel wheels are constructed out of several pieces of steel that are welded together. Steel is more durable and easier to repair. Aluminum is more lightweight, provides better heat dissipation, and also offers endless design variations.
The coating helps protect the wheel from damage or rust. It makes them stand out by providing a unique color or shine to the wheel. Finishes include gloss, satin, chrome, and matte. American Racing also designs many wheels with a material called anthracite. The compound is a hard coal substance melted down and used as a coating.
Our Top Pick
If you are looking for one of the best American Racing wheels to replace your old worn-out ones, consider the American Racing Custom Wheels AR172 Baja Satin Black Wheel. It features an aggressive look that changes how your car, truck, SUV, or Jeep looks. Plus, its satin black finish adds more protection and makes each wheel shine. They are built out of a powerful steel alloy to increase performance, looks, and load capacity.
