The Purpose of Beadlock Wheels
Beadlocks secure tires to wheels. When a tire is inflated, tire pressure forces the bead of the tire against the inside of the rim. This keeps the tire in place. If tire pressure is not enough to hold the bead in place -- a common problem in sports such as drag racing -- a beadlock is used.
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Applications
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Specific beadlocks are made for a variety of automotive sports. Beadlock wheels are designed for use on funny cars, drag racers, off-road racing trucks and rock crawling trucks. Some beadlock manufacturers also sell beadlock wheels for use on the road.
Types
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Originally used for race cars, beadlock wheels have become the popular method to attach tires that require as little as 12 lbs of air pressure, but still need excellent grip to the wheel. Beadlock wheel manufacturers offer lightweight models for racing; standard weight wheels for heavier cars, trucks and rock crawler-type wheels; and extra heavy duty beadlock wheels for use on big trucks.
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Considerations
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According to Four Wheeler magazine, beadlock wheels and tires are not for everyone. In off-road sports, beadlock wheels are necessary when you plan to run your tires with low inflation. Four Wheeler states that if you are reluctant to run your vehicle with tire pressures of less than 18 lbs, you don't need beadlock wheels and tires.
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References
- Photo Credit extreme off-road image by krysek from Fotolia.com
