How to Sell True Beadlock Wheels vs Simulated (Faux) Beadlocks

If you’re a wheel business, then you simply can’t ignore the growing demand and appeal of beadlock wheels.

These wheels have captured the attention of off-road enthusiasts and vehicle modification hobbyists alike, thanks to their distinctive look and superior performance.

Beadlock wheels are designed to provide exceptional grip and durability, making them a must-have for serious off-road applications. But there’s a growing market for wheels that have the look and feel of beadlocks, without the necessity of their full off-road functionality. 

These are known as simulated (faux) beadlock wheels, and they offer an attractive alternative for customers who want the rugged aesthetics of beadlocks for their trucks and jeeps without needing the “extreme” capabilities.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between true and simulated beadlock wheels, address common misconceptions, and demonstrate how you can make simulated beadlock wheels a highly profitable part of your product lineup. 

By understanding the benefits and market potential of these wheels, wheel businesses and resellers can make informed decisions, cater to a broader customer base and improve their margins.

Explore our beadlock product offerings to see the full specifications of AST’s true and simulated beadlock wheels.

What Are Beadlock Wheels?

Beadlock wheels are a specialized type of wheel designed primarily for off-road use. 

They feature a unique mechanism that clamps the tire bead to the wheel, preventing the tire from slipping or spinning around the wheel in extreme conditions. This clamping is achieved through a detachable ring that bolts onto the wheel, securing the tire bead firmly in place.

How to Identify True vs. Simulated Beadlock Wheels

True Beadlock Wheels: Feature a functional beadlock ring that is bolted onto the wheel to clamp the tire bead. They are designed for serious off-road use and provide superior grip and durability.

Simulated Beadlock Wheels: Feature a non-functional, decorative ring that mimics the appearance of a True beadlock. These wheels are intended for aesthetic purposes and are suitable for street use and light off-roading.

Understanding these differences and addressing the common misconceptions will help you educate your customers, so they can feel confident in their purchase.

The Keys to Selling True Beadlock Wheels

• Know the Definition of Beadlock Wheels

True beadlock wheels are designed for the most demanding off-road environments, such as rocky terrains, deep mud, and loose sand. These wheels are equipped with a functional beadlock ring that physically clamps the tire to the wheel. 

This clamping mechanism is essential for preventing the tire from slipping or spinning on the wheel in extreme off-road conditions.

1. Understand the Manufacturing Process for True Beadlock Wheels: 

True beadlock wheels are typically forged, which means they are made by shaping metal under high pressure. This process results in wheels that are significantly stronger and lighter than cast wheels. 

The rotary forging process along with metal spinning, aligns the grain structure of the metal, which enhances the wheel’s strength and durability. For example, AST’s rotary forging technology ensures that the wheels are not only robust but also lighter, which is critical for maintaining vehicle performance.

Benefits of Real Beadlock Wheels:

• Superior Grip and Traction: The beadlock ring locks the tire bead to the wheel, providing superior grip and traction. This is especially important for off-road enthusiasts who often “air down” their tires to improve contact with the terrain.
• Enhanced Durability: True beadlock wheels are built to withstand harsh conditions, including impacts from rocks and other obstacles. They are less likely to crack or bend compared to cast wheels.
• Improved Safety: By preventing the tire from slipping or dismounting, True beadlock wheels enhance safety during off-road adventures.

 

• Appeal to the Ideal Customers for Authentic Beadlock Wheels: 

True beadlock wheels are perfect for:

• Professional Off-Road Racers: Who demand the highest performance and reliability from their equipment.
• Serious Off-Road Enthusiasts: Who frequently tackle challenging terrains and need wheels that can keep up with their adventures.
• Heavy-Duty Off-Road Vehicles: Such as those used in competitions like the Baja 1000 or King of the Hammers.

By understanding and catering to the needs of these customers, your wheel business can effectively market true beadlock wheels and capitalize on their unique benefits.

Keys to Selling Simulated (Faux) Beadlock Wheels

Incorporated properly, simulated beadlocks can be your most profitable product line, and will significantly boost your bottom line. 

These wheels appeal to a broad market segment, and their lower price point makes them easier to sell. And most importantly, the higher margins on forged simulated beadlock wheels can greatly enhance the overall profitability of your wheel business.

Let’s dig into the keys to making these wheels a cash cow for your business:

Know the definition of Simulated (Faux) Beadlock Wheels

Simulated beadlock wheels, also known as faux beadlock wheels, are designed to mimic the appearance of true beadlock wheels without incorporating the functional beadlock mechanism. 

These wheels feature decorative bolts and a machined ring that give them the rugged look of true beadlock wheels.

Know the Key Differences from True Beadlock Wheels:

• Appearance vs. Functionality: While true beadlock wheels have a functional ring that clamps the tire bead, simulated beadlock wheels only replicate the look. They are not designed to keep the tire bead in place under low pressure or in harsh off-road environments.
• Cost: Simulated beadlock wheels are generally more affordable than true beadlock wheels, making them accessible to a broader market.
• Weight and Material: Simulated beadlock wheels can be either forged or cast. Forged simulated beadlock wheels offer the benefits of being lighter and stronger, while cast wheels are typically heavier and less durable.

However, they do not provide the same level of performance required for extreme off-road conditions.

Advantages of Simulated Beadlock Wheels:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Simulated beadlock wheels are popular among truck and jeep owners who want the tough, off-road look without needing the full functionality of true beadlock wheels. They provide a visual upgrade that enhances the vehicle’s appearance.
• Cost-Effective: For customers who do not engage in serious off-roading, simulated beadlock wheels offer a more affordable alternative to true beadlock wheels.
• Customization: These wheels can be customized with various finishes and designs, allowing customers to achieve the exact look they desire for their vehicles.

Benefits of Forged Simulated Beadlock Wheels:

• Weight Reduction: Forged simulated beadlock wheels are lighter than their cast counterparts. This reduced weight improves vehicle performance by enhancing launch, acceleration, braking, and cornering due to a better power-to-weight ratio.
• Strength and Durability: Despite being lighter, forged wheels are stronger and more durable, making them less prone to damage from everyday driving conditions.
• Multi-Piece Design: If a forged simulated beadlock wheel gets damaged, it is often possible to replace just the outer ring, reducing repair costs.

The Ideal Customers for your Simulated Beadlocks: 

Simulated beadlock wheels are perfect for:

• Truck and Jeep Owners: These customers want to enhance the look of their vehicles with rugged, off-road styling. The aesthetic appeal of simulated beadlock wheels provides the tough, off-road look they desire without the need for extreme off-road functionality.
• Vehicle Modification Hobbyists: Hobbyists who enjoy customizing their vehicles for aesthetic appeal will find simulated beadlock wheels an attractive option. These wheels allow them to achieve the desired rugged look while maintaining practicality for everyday use.
• Street Vehicles Modified for Racing or Show Purposes: For street vehicles that have been modified for racing or show purposes, the look of beadlock wheels adds credibility and style. Many owners prefer the authentic racing appearance that simulated beadlock wheels offer, even if their vehicles never see a racetrack.

How to Increase Your Profit by Selling Forged Simulated Beadlock Wheels (vs. Cast)

When it comes to simulated beadlock wheels, the benefits of forged wheels for your customers are clear.. 

And if you can communicate these benefits properly then you can often double your profit margins.. Here’s how: 

Benefits of Forged Wheels for Your Customers

Performance and Durability: Forged wheels are lighter and stronger than cast wheels, making them an attractive option for street use. The reduced weight of forged wheels improves vehicle performance by enhancing launch, acceleration, braking, and cornering due to a better power-to-weight ratio. Despite their lighter weight, forged wheels do not compromise on strength and durability, which are critical for maintaining safety and performance.

Authenticity Appeal: This customer profile prefers authentic racing products, even if their vehicles never see a racetrack. Forged wheels provide the credibility and aesthetic appeal that these owners want. Forged simulated beadlock wheels offer a unique advantage for street vehicles modified for racing or show purposes. The aesthetic and performance benefits make them a compelling choice for enthusiasts.

Cost Efficiency and Repairability: Another benefit of multi-piece wheels, including simulated beadlocks, is that if a wheel gets damaged, it may be possible to replace just the outer ring, reducing repair costs. This feature is particularly appealing to customers looking for long-term value and ease of maintenance.

Profitability Impact for your Wheel Business

Impact on Margins: Offering forged simulated beadlock wheels can significantly boost your profitability. For instance, while a set of four cast wheels might sell for $2,000 with a profit margin of 15%, selling a set of forged wheels for $4,000 can yield a margin of up to 25%. 

This means that you could be making over three times the margin on the higher-cost forged wheels compared to cast wheels.

By emphasizing the superior performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal of forged wheels, you can justify the higher price point to your customers. This not only meets customer demand for quality but also enhances your bottom line with massively higher profit margins.

Myths About Faux Beadlock Wheels

There are several misconceptions about faux/simulated beadlock wheels that can create confusion for customers and resellers. It’s important to clarify these myths to help customers make informed decisions and to highlight the value of offering simulated beadlock wheels.

Misconception #1: Simulated Beadlock Wheels Are Inferior to True Beadlock Wheels 

While it’s true that simulated beadlock wheels do not provide the same level of off-road performance as true beadlock wheels, they are not necessarily inferior. Simulated beadlock wheels are designed for a different purpose. They offer the rugged look of beadlock wheels without the need for extreme off-road functionality, making them suitable for a broad range of customers who prioritize aesthetics and street use.

Simulated beadlock wheels are NOT just cheap imitations. 

High-quality simulated beadlock wheels, especially forged ones, are engineered to be strong, durable, and lightweight. They provide a cost-effective alternative for customers who want the beadlock look without the additional cost and weight of true beadlock wheels. 

It’s important to emphasize that these wheels are made with the same attention to detail and quality as true beadlock wheels.

Misconception #2: Faux Beadlock Wheels Are Dangerous 

There is a belief that fake beadlock wheels are unsafe. 

This is NOT the case when high-quality materials and proper manufacturing processes are used. Forged simulated beadlock wheels, for instance, offer superior strength and durability, making them suitable for everyday driving conditions. 

While they are not good for “extreme” off-road use, they are perfect for street use and light off-road activities.

Are Beadlock Wheels Street Legal?

Legality of Beadlock Wheels: One of the common questions surrounding beadlock wheels is whether they are street legal. The legality of beadlock wheels can vary significantly depending on the region and specific regulations in place. It’s important for wheel businesses and resellers to understand these regulations to provide accurate information to their customers.

True Beadlock Wheels: true beadlock wheels are typically designed for off-road use and may not be legal for street use in certain areas. The primary concern with true beadlock wheels is that the bolted-on ring, which secures the tire bead, can sometimes come loose or fail if not properly maintained. This potential safety issue has led some regions to restrict the use of true beadlock wheels on public roads.

• United States: In many states, true beadlock wheels are not street legal. However, enforcement of this regulation can vary. It’s important for customers to check their local laws and regulations.
• Europe: European regulations tend to be stricter, and true beadlock wheels are generally not allowed on public roads.

Simulated (Faux) Beadlock Wheels: Simulated beadlock wheels, on the other hand, are generally street legal because they do not have the functional beadlock ring that can pose a safety risk. These wheels are designed to meet the safety standards required for street use, making them a popular choice for customers who want the beadlock look without the associated legal concerns.

• United States: Simulated beadlock wheels are legal in all states, as they meet the standard safety requirements for street use.
• Europe: These wheels are also widely accepted in Europe, provided they meet the necessary safety and performance standards.

Recommendations for Street Use: For customers who are considering beadlock wheels for their street vehicles, simulated beadlock wheels offer a safer and legal alternative. They provide the rugged, off-road appearance without compromising on safety or violating local laws.

Why Choose AST for Your Beadlock Wheels?

AST’s simulated beadlock wheels are crafted to the highest standards of quality and safety. Our forged wheels offer reduced weight and increased strength, ensuring superior street performance.

By choosing AST’s products, customers can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of beadlock wheels with the confidence that they are investing in a truly superior product.

Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction

Advanced Wheel Manufacturing Technologies: At AST Forged Wheels, we utilize cutting-edge manufacturing technologies to ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our use of rotary forging and metal spinning processes, which create wheels that are both strong and lightweight.

Rotary Forging: This process shapes metal under high pressure while rotating, aligning the grain structure for stronger, more durable wheels. The reduced weight of forged wheels enhances vehicle performance, making them ideal for customers seeking both strength and efficiency.

Metal Spinning: Metal spinning shapes a metal disc at high speeds using precision tools, allowing for the creation of complex shapes with high structural integrity. This ensures our wheels can withstand rigorous demands, whether for off-road or street applications.

Custom Solutions: We offer tailored designs for both real and simulated beadlock wheels, ensuring they meet specific customer needs. Whether it’s a unique size, finish, or design feature, our team works closely with customers to create wheels that perfectly match their requirements.

Exceptional Customer Service: Customer satisfaction is our top priority. We provide exceptional service and support at every stage of the purchasing process. Our knowledgeable team is always available to answer questions, provide technical assistance, and help customers choose the best wheels for their needs.

Proven Excellence: AST’s commitment to quality is recognized by top organizations, including the U.S. Army, and we deliver components for leading aerospace companies. This track record underscores the reliability and excellence of AST Forged Wheels.

Conclusion

Beadlock wheels are essential for off-road enthusiasts and vehicle modification hobbyists. Offering both real and simulated beadlock wheels allows businesses to meet diverse customer needs and maximize profitability. AST Forged Wheels stands out as a trusted partner for wheel businesses and resellers, offering products that enhance vehicle performance, safety, and appearance.

Explore our beadlock product offerings to see the full specifications of AST’s real and simulated beadlock wheels.

Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and see how AST’s custom solutions can enhance your business. Request a Quote.