Like many others here, I've been doing some research on new wheels and tires for my CL-S.

Many of the treads concern size, weight, and offset. I've seen none address durability, yet I do see people post about their bent rims.

One of my concerns about new (lightweight) wheels is their durability. I spend a lot of my time driving on crappy city streets that are full of potholes. I do my best to avoid the deeper ones, but sometimes they cannot be avoided.

Are there any rims that have a propensity to bend? Are there any rims we'd be advised not to have on city streets? Are there any rims know to be bullet-proof and light?

For instance, I once saw post somewhere that said the OZ Supraleggera is susceptible to trauma and bends easy.

I'd hate to spend the money for aftermarket rims just to find out that they'll bend on the first bump I go over.

(oh, and if it helps, I'm thinking in the 17x7.5 size with 235/45 tires --- I'm not planning on going super low profile)

 

Good thread Slimey, will be watching for informed answers.

 

Bigger diameter rims bend easier. Unless you are going to be completely crazy and start hunting for massive potholes you should be ok with 17s.

Funny about the OZ superleggra's......i heard the same thing about SSR competitions Point being.....any rim will bend if you hit it hard enough.

 

stay away from the cheap imitation wheels, they tend to bend easier.

plus sizing also makes bending easier. more rim, less tire to absorb the shock from potholes etc.

underinflated tires can also lead to bending.

and if you are looking for lightweight and stong, go w/ forged wheels. the rims i just bought only weigh 16 pounds, yet they are very strong.

cast = molten aluminum poured into a mold.

forged = nearly molten aluminum stamped into shape under unbelievable pressure.

maybe someone can interject, and finish off my rough definitions.

 

the wheels are as safe as you are a driver...this is the main thing because even nice wheels bend!