What is wheel offset and why should you care.
Wheel offset is the distance from the hub mounting surface to the center of the wheel. It’s measured in three ways.
Zero Offset:
The mounting surface of the hub is even with the center of the wheel.
Positive Offset:
The mounting surface of the hub is located in the front half of the wheel. Being positive would tuck the wheel and tire further into the wheel well.
Negative Offset:
The mounting surface of the hub is located in the back half of the wheel. Being negative would cause the wheel to stick further out of the wheel well, creating a wider stance.
To much negative wheel offset issues:
The farther you push the wheel and tire out from the wheel well, the more strain and stress you put on the wheel bearing, hub, and suspension. You will make the stance of the machine wider, and it may not fit on some trails or your trailer. With larger tires, you can also increase the chance of the tire hitting the body.
To much positive wheel offset issues:
The further you push the wheel and tire into the wheel well, the more strain and stress this will also cause on wheel bearings, hubs, and suspension. This can also cause the wheel and tire to rub on the inner fender area when turning. This will also cause you to have a narrower stance and can make the machine more top-heavy.
Be sure to check out our other Stories and everything SXS Nation has to offer.
Subscribe to our blog.
Follow us on Facebook.
