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

OVERVIEW

Elevate your vintage Volkswagen''s aesthetic with the timeless styling of the Raider Wheel set. This specific set of four wheels features a sophisticated grey-painted center that provides a stunning contrast against the high-luster polished outer lip. Designed to capture the spirit of the classic Cal-Look and Outlaw movements, these wheels offer a custom appearance that honors the heritage of the air-cooled era while providing the structural integrity required for modern driving conditions. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to swap out tired stock steelies, these Raider wheels deliver a bold, aggressive stance that instantly transforms the profile of your Beetle, Bus, or Ghia. The 5-inch width is ideal for maintaining a period-correct look while allowing for a variety of tire options that fit comfortably within factory fender wells.

Crafted with precision and engineered for the unique demands of the Wide-5 (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern, these wheels are a direct fit for early Volkswagen models. The 3-3/4 inch backspacing is carefully calculated to ensure proper clearance for brake components and suspension linkages, reducing the risk of rubbing on lowered applications. Each wheel in this set comes complete with a dedicated center cap and a high-quality valve stem, ensuring you have the core components needed for a professional installation. By choosing this matched set of four, you ensure uniformity in finish and fitment across your entire vehicle, providing that cohesive, show-quality look that Appletree Automotive customers demand. These aren''t just wheels; they are a statement of performance and style for the serious air-cooled enthusiast.

FITMENT

These Raider Wheels are designed for Volkswagen models utilizing the "Wide-5" 5x205mm lug pattern, including:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1955 through 1966
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): All years using 5x205mm hubs
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx-style bodies built on early VW chassis.

SPECS

• Quantity: Complete set of 4 wheels
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Back Spacing: 3-3/4 Inches
• Finish: Grey Center with Polished Lip
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires 12mm or 14mm tapered hardware depending on drum/rotor)
• Center Cap: Included (Part number 00-9721-0)
• Valve Stem: Included with each wheel
• Material: High-strength Aluminum Alloy

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Correct Hardware is Mandatory. When installing these Raider wheels, you must never reuse your original stock VW lug bolts if they feature a "ball seat" or "radius seat." These wheels are machined specifically for a 60-degree taper (conical seat). Using the wrong hardware will prevent the wheel from seating properly against the drum or rotor, leading to vibration, damaged wheel seats, or even wheel failure. We highly recommend pairing these with our 00-9537-0 lug bolts or 00-9516-0 nuts to ensure a safe and secure fitment.

Pro Tip 2: Plan Your Tire Profile for Clearance. While the 5-inch width is very versatile, if you are running a significantly narrowed front beam or a "slammed" suspension setup, tire choice is critical. For the classic "big and little" look, many enthusiasts opt for a 145/80R15 or 135R15 tire in the front to maximize fender clearance. Always perform a "dry fit" of the wheel on your hub before mounting tires to check for interference with tie rod ends or brake lines, especially on early link-pin front ends.

Pro Tip 3: Maintain the Polished Shine. The polished lip on these wheels is beautiful but requires regular maintenance to prevent oxidation from road salts, brake dust, and moisture. To keep them looking new, clean them regularly with a pH-neutral soap and water. Periodically apply a high-quality aluminum polish followed by a synthetic wax or sealant. This creates a protective barrier that makes future cleaning easier and prevents the grey-painted centers from fading or chipping over time.