Consider nice rims to be the icing on the cake. An installation that can take as little as fifteen minutes can instantly transform the look of your car, and will turn heads if your selection is just right. Everyone likes the look of aftermarket rims, but how do you make the perfect selection for your sports car, SUV, truck etc?

Custom rims are available from a rapidly growing list of aftermarket manufacturers, and the options are truly amazing. When choosing aftermarket rims you can opt for the low priced, which often means low quality or, you can invest a little bit more and be completely satisfied with your purchase. Quality determines the time your rims last based on the road conditions you drive on, so it is recommended that you spend more and worry less. You get what you pay for. Ensure that you know how much to expect from your investment. Quality (and style) can be pricey

Wheel styles range from regular 5 spoke alloy, to wire, all with varying creative designs and color options. Add the latest and craze, chrome ’spinners’ rims that run up to and over US$10,000 per set. Most tuner car lovers are not interested in these, as we want to go fast and look good doing it.

The correct selection, if you are looking strictly from show perspective, is easy- just choose a custom rims that you feel fits the style of your vehicle and your personal preference. Those seeking performance for racing should opt for light alloy. Steel rims will only slow your automobile down and should not be considered as heavy rims increase fuel consumption.

It’s a common principle among the tuner car crowd that chrome does not work well with sports cars. Like wearing a sweat suit with a dress shoes-a definite no no!

If you do lots of city commuting in traffic, then alloy is a great choice. Alloy rims actually offer cool air flow over your car's brake system which will prevent overheating. Alloy aluminum is lighter than chrome or steel, so you can also slightly improve your gas mileage.

Another tip to help the performance of your automobile is to install rims that are one or two inches larger than the stock rims. Larger rims also give your SUV, truck or sports car a sportier look and feel. It’s ambitious to try and fit 19”s under the 1999 Civic wheel wells with 35 series tires and still attempt the four hour drive to Negril. Make sure the custom rims you purchase have a maximum-load rating compatible with your vehicle, and ensure that you only purchase those that match the bolt pattern of your automobile.

The careful selection of tires is just as important as that of the rims. To avoid negative camber consider both tire and rim size carefully along with the lowering of your automobile. The offset is also very important. Installing the wrong offset size, will result in steering and handling problems. The sales person at the wheel shop should be able to help you choose the right offset for your vehicle so don’t worry if it sounds complicated.

Where can you buy rims? You have a few choices here in Jamaica, you can shop at the local car accessory store or you can shop online. Each has their own benefit. There are a few well established rims dealer that when shopping for rims is a must visit. These include GG & Gregg, Automotive Art, World Tron, Tire Warehouse and a few other dealers. The widest rage of manufacturers is available at the GG & Gregg ranging from REV, AXIS, KONIG, Hyper 5ZR, TSW along with other popular brands.

Above all, ensure that your selection is made with your understanding of the Jamaican road surfaces in mind.

Additional text taken from
http://www.custom-rims-n-chrome-rims.com.