Unless you are purchasing off-road rims for the first time, you must have heard about how unbelievably popular Moto Metal Wheels are! Ask anyone you know who is interested in aftermarket fitments and they will tell you that this is one of the very few companies that manufacture rims for all types of vehicles with a single caveat: that they are used for off-roading!
Naturally, Moto Metal describes itself as ‘unapologetic’ and ‘aggressive’ and has adopted a slightly brash style of marketing its off-road wheels over the years. Founded in 2002, Moto Metal’s unique campaigns have generated appeal and traction among the young and the restless. And as off-roading becomes more and more mainstream, it is hardly surprising that the manufacturer is one of the most successful in this niche.
It is a direct competitor to household names like Fuel Wheels. While Fuel was founded in 2009 as an off-road specialist manufacturer, their products have gained a very high degree of respect not only here in the United States but worldwide. It is very difficult to pit Fuel against a brand like Moto Metal given their reputations. Indeed, it would be an exercise in folly!
While Fuel has already shown off a few new models and some others with new avatars, we were waiting for Moto Metal to do the same. Now, there is some unofficial confirmation that some brand-new off-road Moto Metal Wheels are en route!
There is no word on which new models will be made available, however. We spoke with some reputed industry experts and keen watchers; they have no clue either.
If you are planning to take home a new set of rims from this company, you’ll have to wait a few more days. Meanwhile, here are some of the most common questions answered exclusively for you!
Where are Moto Metal’s off-road rims made?
Unlike the vast majority of other brands, Moto Metal is based out of Denver, Colorado, and not sunny California. Initially, the company manufactured everything in-house using the latest technological breakthroughs. With a spurt in demand, however, they outsourced the manufacturing part to some of China’s biggest plants.
One of their biggest units is in the Zhejiang Province. Before you dismiss them as ‘Made in China alloy rims, do remember that almost every company across the business spectrum has a range of products that are manufactured in China. Moto Metal Wheels conducts a thorough quality check of every single rim that they import before they are released for public consumption.
Besides, the rims are forged from HQ aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. They conform to the world’s most rigorous safety standards including ones set by the SAE & TUV, besides the globally accepted TS16949 specifications.
Which 2 models should I go for if they receive upgrades?
The following 2 models, each as good as anything Fuel Wheels has to offer, will receive a massive upgrade without a doubt. They are already superstars, you see!
- Moto Metal M0970: This model seems to break its own sales record every year! It’s a 1-piece rugged alloy rim that comes in several sizes and styles. The basic template is the classic 8-spoke design that creates an optical illusion while in motion, making the wheel bigger than it is.
With its hidden lugs, finely machined spoke edges, a broad palette of colors and finishes (we love the satin black M0970 set!), heavy-duty but lightweight nature and a host of warranties besides other bells and whistles, these rims will suit almost any vehicle.
We had bought a set in 2019 and we’re now using them on our handy Ford F-150 Raptor. They’ve never given us any trouble. Ever!
- Moto Metal M0805 Predator: The Predator has been a model to reckon with since it was launched and we fully expect a new model come 2023. Another 1-piece beauty, the M0805 has angular spokes with very deep lips and has a lot more concavity than other models in its family.
Precision teardrop machining on the face lends it a more aesthetic appeal. This is one of the most expensive off-road rims that Moto Metal Wheels manufactures. However, with their heightened performance and superior load-bearing capability, every penny is worth spending!
You can opt for dual-tone finishes if you wish.
Where can I buy these & other models with discounts?
Well, discounts on new rims are fairly common. However, most such ‘discounts’ are offered at slightly marked-up prices! We recommend you visit AudioCity USA, one of the oldest retailers of aftermarket rims and sundry automotive spares for well over 30 years now.
To be honest, we visit this particular facility often. They now have a spanking-new 2-storied showroom on Telegraph Road in Santa Fe Springs. A few advantages you’ll appreciate include:
- Lowest price guarantees on every model across all leading brands
- Attractive shipping charges with faster deliveries
- Financing options galore in association with ‘Progressive Leasing’
- Complete peace of mind knowing that the rims their experts have selected will fit
- Free balancing and aligning on every tire & rim package you purchase, and
- Quality advise from professionals who know their stuff!
If it’s difficult to drive down to California, you can always visit their website. There’s a ton of information on all aspects of off-road wheels.
Anything else I should know about?
Keep in mind that the market’s flooded with fake Moto Metal Wheels! These are guaranteed to bring some grief. For best results, visit reputable retailers like the one we discussed.
Alternatively, buy directly from the company’s official website!
