If there’s one thing about the styling of the Rivian R1T that could use improvement, it’s the rather ordinary selection of stock wheels. While this could be addressed with aftermarket options (although many are not pleasing), Rivian owners have discovered a more cost-effective and potentially superior alternative. Interestingly, many Rivian owners have turned to using wheels from Rams, which not only come at a lower cost but also complement their pickup trucks quite well.
The trend of fitting Ram wheels onto Rivians dates back nearly a year, originating from Rivian owners who were hesitant about paying $1,235 for a factory spare tire. Instead, members of Rivian Forums stumbled upon an alternative: 20-inch alloy wheels used on 2002 to 2012 Dodge Ram 1500s. These wheels match the diameter of Rivian’s smallest factory wheel and share the bolt patterns of 5×139.7. Although not exact replicas, as they are slightly narrower by half an inch, have a lower offset at 19 mm (compared to the stock 48), and possess a smaller bore at 64.1 mm instead of the Ram wheel’s 77.8, they still fit comfortably in all height modes and, with a hub-centric ring, fit perfectly without any issues.
In terms of cost, these wheels can be considerably more affordable than a factory spare from Rivian. Even when factoring in the cost of a new tire, purchasing a wheel from a salvage yard (or from a Ram owner who upgraded to aftermarket options) means acquiring a spare for a fraction of the cost. Some savings can still be enjoyed even if opting for a brand-new wheel.
Moreover, they are aesthetically pleasing, with the straightforward, blocky design of the 2000s Ram wheels complementing the style of the Rivian R1T. Many Rivian owners concur, evident from the multitude of photos showcasing R1Ts outfitted with Ram wheels online. Even if one does not prefer them over the stock wheels, they serve as a practical backup set for installing snow tires. It’s foreseeable that they will continue to be a popular choice until steel wheels of similar size are introduced, as they have the potential to enhance the appearance of Rivians as well.
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