Method Bead Grip Wheels: Are They a Gimmick?

Posted by Nick Kovar on 2/28/2024 to Informative Articles

When it comes to off-road adventures, the right set of wheels can make all the difference between conquering challenging terrain and being left stuck in the mud. One innovation that has recently sparked both curiosity and skepticism is Method Race Wheels' Bead Grip Technology. With its unconventional approach to securing the tire bead, questions arise: Is it a game-changer? Or just another automotive gimmick? Spoiler Alert: These wheels are not just another flashy addition to your ride. Method's Bead Grip Wheels are engineered to redefine how we think about tire mounting and performance, featuring small ridges inside the wheel lip to lock the tire bead into place. In this article, we'll explore the value of Method Wheels, uncover the nuances between Bead Grip and Bead Lock Wheels, and reveal the advantages each Bead Grip wheel offers to provide a concise guide for off-road enthusiasts.

Are Method Wheels any Good?

Method is a legendary name in the off-road racing world, and their catalog of aftermarket wheels reflects the legacy of aggression and toughness that's unmatched just about anywhere else. Each wheel is carefully crafted to give your off-road build an amazing look and the durability needed to handle just about any job you have in mind. Here at Stage 3, we're more than familiar with Method Wheels, featuring them on many of our custom builds including our 2017 F150 3.5L EcoBoost Project Truck. While we don't have any firsthand experience with the new Bead Grip Technology, we've used Method for years and can attest that a set of Method Wheels make for a great addition on just about any off-road truck. Their sleek designs and high-quality construction ensure the perfect blend of aesthetics and robust performance, giving you more confidence on every adventure.

Are Method Bead Grip Wheels Street Legal?

One of the biggest concerns that comes with upgrading to a Bead Lock wheel, or Bead Grip for this matter, is their legality for street use. Traditional Bead Lock wheels are typically not street legal due to the clamping mechanism that can potentially damage road surfaces. As the name would suggest, Bead Lock wheels lock the tire bead into place, while Bead Grip wheels offer a more subtle approach to bead retention by using small ridges on the inside of the wheel. This minor design difference allows the Bead Grip technology to be street legal, as the bead seating does not a pose a threat to safety under normal driving conditions.

What is the Difference Between Bead Lock and Bead Grip Wheels?

As discussed previously, the major difference between Bead Lock and Bead Grip Wheels lies in their approach to securing the tire bead. Bead Lock wheels come standard with an outer ring that clamps the tire bead (the inner edge of the tire) to the wheel, holding it securely in place. This extra clamping force prevents the tire from slipping off the wheel when it's deflated, providing more stability for challenging off-road environments. On the other hand, Bead Grip wheels feature small grooves on the inside of the wheel lip, securely holding the tire bead in place without the need for an additional outer ring. This creates a more secure connection between the tire and wheel, preventing it from slipping, especially in situations where lower tire pressure is beneficial for off-road traction. This innovative solution ensures tire stability for both on and off-road applications without the need for a protruding outer ring that could potentially damage road surfaces.

Are Bead Grip Wheels Right for your Ride?

There's a ton of advantages that come with upgrading to set of Method's Bead Grip Wheels; however, they're certainly not meant for everybody. For starters, the Bead Grip technology comes with a high price point, so it might not make sense for those who don't find themselves tackling new terrain on a regular basis. If you want the look and capability of a Method Wheel without breaking the bank, the Method 318 Series might be the perfect choice for you. For those who do frequent challenging off-road environments, the Bead Grip Wheels strike a solid balance between off-road capability and on-road legality. Each Bead Grip is constructed from solid A356 aluminum with T6 heat treatment which ensure maximum strength and durability for practically any terrain on the planet. Most recently, we've added the 701 Series and 703 Series wheel to our catalog which features Method's Bead Grip technology, giving you the choice between a classic 8-window or iconic 12-window design. These wheels are available with various bolt patterns, sizes and colorways, helping you find the perfect balance of fucntion and appeal for your off-road vehicle of choice.

Product Name	Price	Features
6x135mm Method 17x8.5" 701 Bead Grip Wheel	$319	Classic 8 window styling with debossed METHOD logo Hub centric design for a perfect fit Super tough 2650lb load rating Sold individually
6x135mm Method 17x8.5" 703 Bead Grip Wheel	$319	Iconic 12 window styling with debossed METHOD logo Patented Bead Grip® technology Solid A356 aluminum with T6 heat treatment construction Sold individually

How Do You Mount Bead Grip Wheels?

Mounting up a set of Bead Grip wheels follows a process similar to mounting standard wheels, with an additional focus on ensuring proper engagement of the tire bead with the wheel's inner ridges. Here's a simplified breakdown on the procedure:

1. Lubricate the Tire Bead: Apply a lubricant to the tire bead to facilitate easier mounting onto the wheel.
2. Position the Tire: Carefully place the tire onto the wheel, aligning it with the BeadGrip ridges.
3. Inflate the Tire: Inflate the tire, ensuring the bead expands into and securely engages with the BeadGrip ridges. You may hear a series of "pops" as the bead settles into place.
4. Inspect the Seating: Once fully inflated, inspect the tire bead around the entire circumference of the wheel to ensure it is properly seated against the BeadGrip ridges.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Method Race Wheels' Bead Grip Technology stands as a testament to innovation in the world of off-road adventures. While it's always a good thing to have doubts about something new, the Bead Grip technology has proven itself as a transformative upgrade that redefines tire performance and reliability. For those seeking the perfect blend of capability and aesthetics, these wheels will prove to be a solid investment. You can check out the video above for even more info on the Bead Grip Wheels, or scroll below to find the perfect wheel setup for your off-road build!

Method Wheels