1. What is Wheel Offset?

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. It determines how far in or out the wheel sits in the wheel well and affects vehicle handling, suspension geometry, and tire clearance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the wheel offset formula:

Where:

• \( Backspace \) — Distance from mounting surface to back edge of wheel
• \( Wheel\ width \) — Total width of the wheel

Explanation: Positive offset means the mounting surface is toward the front (street side) of the wheel. Negative offset means it's toward the back (brake side).

3. Importance of Correct Wheel Offset

Details: Proper wheel offset ensures correct wheel positioning, prevents rubbing against suspension components, maintains proper scrub radius, and preserves vehicle handling characteristics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure backspace from the mounting surface to the back edge of the wheel. Measure wheel width from edge to edge (not bead seat to bead seat). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between offset and backspacing?
A: Backspacing measures from the mounting surface to the back edge, while offset measures from the mounting surface to the centerline.

Q2: What are typical offset values?
A: Most factory wheels have positive offset (35-50mm). Performance and custom wheels may have lower or negative offsets.

Q3: How does offset affect my vehicle?
A: Incorrect offset can cause tire rubbing, accelerated bearing wear, and altered handling characteristics.

Q4: Can I convert offset from inches to millimeters?
A: Yes, multiply inches by 25.4 to get millimeters (1 inch = 25.4mm).

Q5: What if my calculated offset is negative?
A: Negative offset means the wheel will sit further outward, which may require fender modifications or smaller tires.