Raider Wheel, Grey with Polished Lip, 5 Wide, 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

The EMPI Raider wheel is a masterclass in vintage-inspired design, meticulously crafted for the air-cooled enthusiast who demands a balance of period-correct aesthetics and modern manufacturing precision. Featuring a sophisticated grey center finish contrasted by a brilliantly polished outer lip, these wheels evoke the spirit of early performance racing while maintaining a clean, professional look that complements any classic restoration or custom build. The iconic 5-spoke design is not just about style; it provides a structural rigidity that handles the unique weight distribution of rear-engine Volkswagens with ease. Whether you are aiming for a traditional Cal-Look, a rugged woods-ready Dune Buggy, or a sleek daily driver, the Raider wheel delivers an unmistakable presence that sets your ride apart from the sea of stock steelies.

Beyond its striking visual appeal, the Raider wheel is engineered specifically for the legendary Wide-5 (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern, making it a direct-fit solution for early Beetles, Buses, and Karmann Ghias. At 5 inches wide, this wheel offers the ideal footprint for owners looking to maintain nimble steering response without the clearance issues often associated with wider aftermarket rims. This specific width is particularly favored by those running narrowed beams or lowered spindles, as it allows for a tucked appearance while still providing ample room for tire sidewall flex. Each wheel comes complete with a high-quality center cap and a valve stem, ensuring that you have the essential components ready for mounting and balancing the moment they arrive at your shop. When you choose the Raider wheel, you are not just buying a component; you are investing in EMPI''s decades of air-cooled heritage and Appletree Automotive''s commitment to quality.

FITMENT

This wheel is designed for vehicles utilizing the 5 on 205mm (Wide-5) lug pattern, which includes the following applications:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967 (Standard models)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx-style shells utilizing early VW drum or disc brake conversions.
• Note: Always verify your specific brake drum or disc conversion bolt pattern before ordering, as many later models may have been converted to the 4x130mm or 5x130mm patterns.

SPECS

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Back Spacing: 3-3/4 Inches (3.75")
• Finish: Industrial Grey Center with Mirror Polished Lip
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires specific aftermarket lugs)
• Material: High-Strength Aluminum Alloy
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9721-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Recommended Lug Hardware: 12mm 60-degree taper (Lug Bolt # 00-9537-0 or Lug Nut # 00-9516-0)

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Correct Lug Hardware for Safety

One of the most common mistakes we see in the shop is the attempt to reuse factory Volkswagen lug bolts with aftermarket alloy wheels. Factory VW Wide-5 wheels typically use a radius (ball) seat, whereas the EMPI Raider wheel is machined with a 60-degree taper seat. Using the wrong seat profile will result in the lugs loosening over time, potentially damaging the wheel or causing a wheel-off failure. Always use the recommended 60-degree taper lugs (Part # 00-9537-0 for bolts or 00-9516-0 for studs/nuts) to ensure proper clamping force and safety. Additionally, always hand-start your lugs to prevent cross-threading before finishing with a calibrated torque wrench.

2. Check Tie-Rod and Fender Clearance

While the 5-inch width and 3-3/4 inch backspacing are designed to be "friendly" to most stock setups, air-cooled VWs are notorious for variations in body-to-chassis alignment. If you are running a narrowed beam or dropped spindles, we highly recommend performing a "dry fit" of the wheel without a tire mounted first. Check the clearance between the inner lip of the wheel and the tie-rod ends, especially during a full lock-to-lock turn. If you find the wheel is too close to the tie-rod, you may need a small spacer or a slight adjustment to your steering stops to prevent rubbing, which can mar the beautiful grey finish or compromise your steering components.

3. Maintain the Polished Lip for Longevity

The polished lip on the Raider wheel is uncoated aluminum, which gives it that deep, classic shine, but it does require regular maintenance to prevent oxidation. We recommend applying a high-quality carnauba wax or a dedicated metal sealant to the polished areas immediately after installation. When cleaning your wheels, avoid using harsh "acid-base" wheel cleaners commonly found at big-box stores, as these chemicals can etch the polished aluminum and dull the grey painted center. Stick to mild soap and water, and occasionally use a fine metal polish to bring back the luster. Keeping a coat of protection on the wheels will make brake dust removal significantly easier and keep your VW looking show-ready for years.