ATV Wheels – Sizes, Differences, and Maintenance Guide

How to Read ATV Wheel Sizes

ATV wheel sizes follow a standardized measurement system expressed as “diameter x width” in inches. For example, a wheel marked 25×8-12 means:

• 25: Tire diameter in inches
• 8: Tire width in inches
• 12: Rim diameter in inches

ATV vs Four-Wheeler: What’s the Difference?

The terms “ATV” (All-Terrain Vehicle) and “four-wheeler” are often used interchangeably, but technically:

• ATV: Broad category including 3-wheel, 4-wheel, and 6-wheel vehicles
• Four-Wheeler: Specifically refers to 4-wheel ATVs

Most modern ATVs feature four wheels, with 3-wheel models largely discontinued due to safety concerns. Six-wheel ATVs like Can-Am’s Outlander 6×6 specialize in heavy-duty tasks with superior load capacity. For those interested in heavy-duty options, explore our comparison of steel vs aluminum wheels to understand which material best suits different terrains.

How to Align ATV Front Wheels: Step-by-Step

Proper wheel alignment prevents uneven tire wear and improves handling. Follow this professional process:

1. Park on level ground and measure current toe-in (distance between front tire centers at front/rear)
2. Loosen tie-rod locknuts using appropriate wrenches
3. Adjust tie rods equally on both sides (1/4 turn increments)
4. Re-measure until achieving 1/8″ to 1/4″ toe-in specification
5. Tighten locknuts to manufacturer’s torque specification

Misalignment often causes pulling to one side or uneven tire wear patterns. For vehicles needing frequent adjustments, consider upgrading to heavy-duty components. Learn more about wheel durability in our article on why steel ATV rims are your best bet for durability.

Are ATV Wheel Spacers Safe? Expert Analysis

Wheel spacers increase track width for stability but pose potential risks:

For safe usage: Choose hub-centric spacers, limit to 2″ maximum width, and regularly inspect for stress cracks. Consider wheel offset alternatives for permanent solutions. Our guide on how to measure ATV wheel offset explains how to achieve stability without spacers.

ATV Wheel Bearing Maintenance Guide

Proper bearing maintenance extends wheel life significantly:

1. Cleaning: Remove wheels and clean bearings with degreaser
2. Inspection: Check for pitting, discoloration, or roughness when rotating
3. Repacking: Fill bearing cavity 2/3 full with high-temperature grease
4. Reinstallation: Torque axle nuts to manufacturer specifications

Most ATVs require bearing service every 50-100 operating hours. Water exposure demands more frequent maintenance. For rough terrains, steel off-road wheels offer superior impact resistance compared to aluminum alternatives.

Most Durable ATV Wheels: Steel vs Alloy

Choosing between wheel materials depends on your riding style:

For heavy-duty applications like farming or rock crawling, steel wheels from Ningbo BRS provide unmatched durability. Our automotive steel wheels undergo rigorous testing, including impact and fatigue tests exceeding SAE J328 standards.

How to Paint ATV Wheels Professionally

Revitalize your ATV’s appearance with proper wheel painting:

1. Remove wheels and thoroughly clean with degreaser
2. Sand surfaces with 400-grit sandpaper for adhesion
3. Apply self-etching primer in thin, even coats
4. Use high-temperature wheel paint (3 light coats)
5. Finish with clear coat for UV protection

For industrial-grade finishes, powder coating provides superior durability. Our powder coating services offer professional results with dozens of color options.

Understanding ATV Wheel Bolt Patterns

Bolt patterns determine wheel compatibility and follow a “number of lugs x diameter” format:

• 4×110: Common on Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki models
• 4×137: Standard for Polaris ATVs
• 4×156: Used on Can-Am ATVs

Always verify your specific model’s requirements. Need replacements? We offer custom ATV rims in various bolt patterns with reinforced steel construction.

Top ATV Wheel Recommendations

Based on terrain and usage:

• Mud/Rocks: BRS Heavy-Duty Steel Wheels (12″ rim)
• Dune Riding
• Farm/Utility: BRS 14″ Steel Wheels with 6-ply rating

Ningbo BRS specializes in custom steel wheels engineered for extreme conditions. With over 20 years of manufacturing expertise, our wheels feature:

• Robust 12-gauge steel construction
• Shot-blasted surfaces for superior coating adhesion
• Reinforced centers for impact resistance
• Custom powder coating options

Explore our full ATV wheel catalog for sizes from 6″ to 14″ rims.