Annual Wheel Buyer's Guide - FootWork - 2NR 2001

Once again, it's 2NR's annual wheel guide, filled with every wheel imaginable. Flip through the pages and absorb as much information as possible. If you don't see any wheels that stimulate the glands, then call, write or e-mail any of the wheel manufacturers in the Hot Box at the end of this guide. Even try telling them exactly what style you're looking for and check to see if there is any way possible for the company to manufacture your desired wheels. The more inquires it receives, the better chances you have of getting what you want. But remember: Custom wheels don't come cheap. So be forewarned.

It's a fact: Everybody knows of or knows each other by their ride. The 2NR staff always catches each other saying stuff like, "You know that guy. He's the one cruising the Integra rolling on Volks." Even when we're looking for cover cars, we'll be like "Hey, let's use that wide-body MR2 with those 19-inch Racing Harts. 'Ya know...the one with mad lip."

Besides the type of vehicle, the rolling footprint undoubtedly makes its own dramatic statement. There is nothing sweeter than seeing an import blasting down a straightaway in full squat with its oversized slotted rotors and calipers glazing behind a set of spinning 18-inch, three-piece wheels. When that racer reaches the stoplight or parking lot, everyone who heard the blow-off valve release (giving that signature sigh) gets the chance to scope out your baby's footwork. That's when you get to pimp-walk away with a much-satisfied smirk.

Whether you believe it or not, wheels are the single most important modification (when all you get to see is a glimpse of a passing import) one can make to their ride in order to claim that stake in the battlefield of street customization. The style of wheels is just as important as the style you choose to live your life. Your chosen wheels will automatically categorize you into a class of your own-or a class of millions.

Decide if you want to go with one-piece, two-piece or three-piece wheels. Dent your one-piece wheel? Who cares? You can buy another one-piece wheel for practically nothing. Two-piece wheels, on the flip side, will always make you wary of street conditions. Denting a two-piece wheel will also dent your wallet. Sporting the coveted three-piece wheels will always make you consider alternatives to the pot-hole filled drive home. Damage a three-piece wheel and you're pretty much assed-out; these wheels cost a grip and, for the most part, they're custom built.

Take a look at the eye-candy we bring you on the next pages. We think you'll like what you see.