APEX Race Parts x EHR: Choosing the right wheel for your setup

To a car enthusiast, there is almost nothing more exciting than getting new parts for their car. Since the car is essentially a visible expression of an enthusiast’s passion, each part tends to be painstakingly agonized over and, when it comes to wheels, choosing the right one can be quite the undertaking. For many, the right wheel is a deeply personal choice; the final piece of an epic build, or the first upgrade that will set the tone for the rest of the project. With so much selection, it can be incredibly challenging to find the “perfect” wheel. Selecting the right wheel for grassroots motorsports requires similar considerations to a street wheel; finding the right balance between weight, strength, aesthetics (emphasis/importance will vary), and cost.

When I took delivery of the new APEX Race Parts SM-10, I was incredibly excited to open the boxes and take a closer look at one of their newest offerings for the VW Golf. It’s incredibly refreshing to have a Flow-Formed wheel built specifically for this vehicle with the common 5x112 bolt pattern, suitable offset (ET42), standard ball seats, and, most importantly, a 57.1mm centre bore that will not require hub rings. Adding to this, the SM-10 is built to accommodate big brake kits and I’m especially pleased that this 18x9” wheel will accommodate the StopTech ST-60 380x32mm kit that will be fitted to my vehicle. So, let’s take a closer look at these wheels.

Opening the box, I was pleasantly encouraged to find a wheel that has been carefully packaged, ensuring each wheel is kept safe and secure throughout the delivery process. With cardboard and a fabric “bonnet” protecting the face, plastic rings surrounding both sides of the wheel, and a plastic bag keeping moisture out, all four wheels arrived from California without a trace of abuse.

Taking a closer look, the anthracite finish is very smooth, even, and the high-quality clear coat makes the wheel just glisten in the light, without being overly sparkly. It is also noteworthy that care was taken to ensure the bolt seats have been left completely unfinished to ensure the wheel can be fastened safely to the vehicle.

Before diving into the design of the wheel, I must confess that I do not place a strong

emphasis on aesthetics, especially when I’m considering a wheel that will be primarily used