Raider Wheels, Grey, 17X7, 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled classic to a whole new level of performance and style with the Raider Wheel in a striking Anthracite Grey finish. For decades, VW enthusiasts were limited to small-diameter wheels if they wanted to keep their original "Wide Five" 5 on 205mm bolt pattern. These 17x7 Raider wheels shatter that limitation, offering a massive 17-inch diameter that allows you to run modern, high-performance low-profile rubber without the need for expensive disc brake conversions or hub swaps. The sophisticated anthracite face provides a deep, moody contrast that perfectly complements the brilliant polished lip, giving your Beetle, Ghia, or Bus a "restomod" look that demands attention at every show and stoplight. These aren''t just wheels; they are a complete transformation of your vehicle''s stance and handling characteristics, bridging the gap between vintage German engineering and contemporary automotive design.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of the Raider wheel design. Each wheel is cast from high-quality aluminum alloy to ensure a perfect balance of structural integrity and weight reduction. With a 7-inch width and a 5-1/2 inch backspacing, these wheels are designed to tuck nicely under the fenders of many custom VW applications, though their aggressive sizing often rewards the builder who isn''t afraid to dial in their suspension geometry. Each set comes complete with a dedicated center cap and valve stems, ensuring you have the essential hardware to get rolling immediately. Whether you are building a Pro-Street Cal-Looker, a slammed Type 2 Transporter, or a high-end custom Dune Buggy, the Raider wheel provides the durability required for the open road and the show-winning aesthetics that Appletree Automotive customers have come to expect from our premium wheel lineup.

FITMENT

These wheels feature the classic 5 on 205mm "Wide Five" bolt pattern, fitting a wide range of early air-cooled Volkswagens and custom kits:

• VW Beetle: 1946 through 1966 (Standard and Deluxe models).
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966.
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1970 (Includes Kombi, Panel, and Microbus).
• VW Thing / Type 181: All years (using the 5x205 pattern).
• Dune Buggies & Sandrails: Any custom chassis utilizing 5-lug VW drum or disc brake hubs.
• Replica Kits: Porsche 356 Speedster and Spyder replicas utilizing VW floor pans and 5x205 hubs.

SPECS

• Diameter: 17 Inches
• Width: 7 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide Five)
• Backspacing: 5.5 Inches
• Offset: Positive (Deep Tuck)
• Finish: Anthracite (Grey) Painted Face with Polished Lip
• Material: High-Strength Cast Aluminum Alloy
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires 12mm Tapered Lug Bolts or Nuts)
• Center Cap: Included (Part Number 00-9721-0 compatible)
• Valve Stems: Included
• Recommended Lug Hardware: 00-9537-0 (Bolts) or 00-9516-0 (Nuts)

PRO TIPS

1. Mind Your Backspacing and Suspension Clearance

With a 5.5-inch backspacing on a 7-inch wide wheel, these Raiders sit significantly further inboard than a stock 4-inch wide steelie. If you are running a narrowed beam on a Beetle or Ghia, you must carefully measure your inner fender well and suspension component clearance. In many cases, you may need to utilize a small wheel spacer to prevent the inner lip of the wheel from contacting the tie rod ends or the body during tight turns. Always "dry fit" the wheel without a tire first to check for any metal-on-metal contact throughout the full range of steering and suspension travel.

2. Upgrade to Tapered Lug Hardware

It is absolutely critical that you do not attempt to use your factory VW "ball seat" lug bolts with these aluminum Raider wheels. These wheels are engineered with a 60-degree tapered (cone) seat. Using the wrong lug hardware will not only damage the aluminum seat of the wheel but can also lead to the lugs loosening over time, which is a major safety hazard. We strongly recommend purchasing a fresh set of 60-degree tapered 12mm lug bolts or studs and nuts specifically designed for aftermarket alloy wheels to ensure a secure and hub-centric fit.

3. Tire Selection for the Perfect Stance

Moving to a 17-inch wheel opens up a world of modern tire choices, but you need to be strategic with your sizing to maintain the classic VW look and driveability. For a "Cal-Look" rake, many builders opt for a lower profile tire in the front (such as a 205/40-17 or 215/40-17) and a slightly taller sidewall in the rear (like a 215/45-17 or 225/45-17). This helps fill the wheel well while providing a bit more "meat" to protect that beautiful polished lip from potholes. Remember that because these are 7 inches wide, a 205mm wide tire is generally the minimum recommended width to avoid an excessive "stretched" look.