XD Wheels has gained the respect of many aftermarket and custom wheel specialists in the trucking and racing industries across the United States. They are known to be extremely capable and structurally sound manufacturers of high-end custom rims which have what it takes to take on any surface you choose to tread on. Add to that the rich style quotient, and you have a winner.
But there is a common query among XD rim owners: should they choose their aluminum or stainless steel rims? Actually, this is a question which vexes anyone who owns a set of custom rims. Examples are plenty, from Fuel to Ridler Wheels.
To cut a longer story short, aluminum wheels are the ones you should turn to.
But before we tell you why, let us provide a brief background.
The enduring legacy of aluminum
Aluminum as a standalone metal is an extremely expensive one. It is certainly more expensive than stainless steel. However, before the 1970s, most wheels were forged out of steel. Wire Wheels, another top-shelf producer, is a good example of a company that started out manufacturing steel rims and then diverging into several other sectors within the ecosystem.
During the 70s and later, the appeal of durable alloy wheels gradually took shape. It was found that Magnesium could also be used to make high-quality wheels. Steel rims were gradually dispensed with as aluminum and alloy rims took over.
XD Wheels is well-known in the industry for its prowess as a manufacturer of repute. It sources very good quality aluminum from across the United States and the world. Starting from this, they manufacture several different types of rims that sell widely across the country and the world.
Now, let’s look at why aluminum Ridler Wheels, or any other brand that you prefer, are mostly better than steel rims.
Why choose XD aluminum rims?
There are several different reasons why aluminum rims trump all others in sales volumes every year, but the most elementary ones are the following.
- Lighter rims with better fuel savings: One reason why steel rims have fallen out of favor is their weight. They tend to be rather heavy, certainly more than most commercially available aluminum variants. But with aluminum Wire Wheels or the like, this low weight is a blessing, and certainly not one in disguise.
The lighter the rims, the more your savings on fuel will be. They contribute to the overall lowering of the weight of the vehicle.
- Aluminum rims are more durable: While there is no doubt that steel wheels beat everything else when it comes to sheer and absolute durability tests, aluminum is not to be regarded with contempt! Rims made with aluminum alloys are chosen worldwide for their legendary ability to take punishment while also being able to retain their shape and consistency.
XD Wheels certainly knows this better than most competitors. After all, the company manufactures some of the best and sturdiest rims in the aftermarket segment. Given the brand’s enviable reputation in a notoriously finicky market, it is safe to assume that they know what they are doing!
- Aluminum rims are easier to style: One pillar of the custom wheel segment is the style factor. Steel does not lend itself to as many variants as aluminum does, and hence the latter rims are found in a lot more styles and aesthetics than any other. If you are wondering which style or fashion would suit your vehicle, it is recommended that you ask for expert advice from your nearest reliable retailer where professionals man the counters and know the difference between these products.
You will be astounded by the sheer variety of models available, especially when you choose a high-end brand like XD Wheels!
- Off-road capability: Quality aluminum rims are tested hundreds of times to ensure they pass every parameter and do not lead to any compromise on roads. XD itself has several in-house testing facilities which help the brand maintain quality consistency. It is no wonder that these rims are as cherished as they are!
Aluminum rims are available in a wide range of sizes, and the lug patterns available for sale are also several. If you are driving passenger vehicles, perhaps the 19-or-20-inch models will be okay.
Else, if you drive a pickup or something heavier, go for the 24-inch wheels. They are the real monsters!
Wrapping up
Bear in mind that aluminum XD Wheels should always be your first choice, as you now know some benefits. All said, if you drive across inhospitable terrains regularly, and not as a passing fancy, try out steel wheels. They drive differently, but remain very viable alternatives.
