Raider Wheel, Grey, 17X7, 5 On 205mm

OVERVIEW

Elevate your vintage Volkswagen''s aesthetic and performance with the EMPI Raider Wheel, a stunning fusion of classic "Wide 5" heritage and modern pro-touring styling. Designed for the enthusiast who refuses to compromise, this 17x7-inch wheel brings a contemporary diameter to the iconic 5 on 205mm bolt pattern. The Raider features a sophisticated Anthracite Grey face that provides a deep, metallic contrast against the brilliant high-luster polished lip. This combination creates a visual depth that stock wheels simply cannot match, making it the perfect choice for high-end restorations, custom street sleepers, or aggressive Cal-Look builds. Whether you are cruising the coastline or showing at a major VW event, these wheels provide a commanding presence that honors VW history while pushing the boundaries of modern wheel design.

Beyond its striking appearance, the EMPI Raider Wheel is engineered for the rigors of the road. Moving to a 17-inch diameter opens up a vast world of high-performance tire options that are unavailable for traditional 15-inch rims, allowing for improved lateral grip, better braking response, and a more stable footprint. The 7-inch width provides ample support for modern rubber, ensuring that your Beetle, Bus, or Ghia handles with newfound precision. Each wheel comes complete with a sleek center cap and a high-quality valve stem, ensuring a seamless installation process. When you choose the Raider, you aren''t just buying a wheel; you are investing in a performance upgrade that transforms the stance and soul of your air-cooled machine.

FITMENT

This wheel is designed specifically for Volkswagen models utilizing the "Wide 5" (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern. Please note that custom disc brake conversions or aftermarket hubs may be required for later models originally equipped with 4-lug patterns.

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: Models converted to Wide 5 hubs
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any chassis utilizing Wide 5 drums or disc brake rotors
• Custom Trikes: Using Volkswagen rear torsion and hub assemblies

SPECS

• Diameter: 17 Inches
• Width: 7 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Backspacing: 5.5 Inches
• Offset: +40mm (Approximate)
• Finish: Anthracite Grey Center with Polished Lip
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Required for safety)
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9721-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Construction: Precision Cast Aluminum Alloy
• Recommended Lugs: 12mm 60-Degree Taper (Part # 00-9537-0 & 00-9516-0)

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Inner Fender Clearance

The 5.5-inch backspacing on these 17x7 Raider wheels is deeper than a standard stock wheel. This is excellent for tucking the tires under the fenders on vehicles with narrowed beams or lowered spindles, but it requires careful measurement. If you are running stock-width trailing arms or heavy-duty disc brake kits, check for potential interference with the inner wheel wells or suspension components during full-lock turns. In some cases, a small wheel spacer may be necessary to achieve the perfect "dead-center" fitment within the wheel arch.

2. Never Use Stock Lug Bolts

One of the most common mistakes when upgrading to EMPI alloy wheels is attempting to reuse the original Volkswagen lug bolts. Stock VW wheels typically use a "Ball Seat" radius, whereas the Raider wheel is engineered with a "60-Degree Taper" seat. Using the wrong lug seat will prevent the wheel from centering correctly and can cause the lugs to loosen or damage the aluminum wheel face. Always use the recommended 60-degree taper lugs (Part # 00-9537-0 for studs or 00-9516-0 for bolts) to ensure a safe and secure connection to your hubs.

3. Select Your Tires for Stance and Gearing

Upgrading to a 17-inch wheel significantly changes the overall rolling diameter depending on your tire choice. For a classic "Big and Little" Cal-Look rake, consider a lower profile tire in the front (such as a 205/40-17) and a taller sidewall in the rear (such as a 215/50-17). Remember that a taller rear tire acts like a taller gear ratio, which can actually help lower your RPMs at highway speedsa huge benefit for air-cooled engines during long-distance cruising. Always ensure your chosen tire load rating is appropriate for the weight of your vehicle, especially on heavier Type 2 Buses.