Multiple Bolt Pattern Wheels?

[KTL]

What's the story about some aftermarket wheels that have mutliple bolt patterns? Like these:

http://www.discounttiredirect.com/product/wheels/atscom.fb.xl.jpg

I would think the wheel strength is compromised by the extra lug holes, but others say no. The above ATS wheels are TUV approved, so they must be good quality wheels. ATS is the same manufacturer who made the phone dials, cookie cutters, some Turbo wheels, and apparently many other OE wheels. Nonetheless, the multiple bolt pattern issue would bother me.

Any comments?

Thanks,

[ttweed]

This is very common in aftermarket wheels and not something to worry about. The area of the wheel encompassed by the lug circle is very well supported by the hub when the wheel is clamped down by the lug nuts, so stresses are minimal in that area and hole-hole cracking is not likely, compared to unsupported parts of the rim like the spokes. If they have TUV approval, they are well engineered, as that is a very tough standard.

TT

[Zeke]

Point well taken. But, do you really want to look at the 'other' holes? Wheels and tires comprise a major component of the car's exterior appeal.

[KTL]

Thanks Tom. Good point Milt.

I guess you could put some plastic plugs in there for appearance purposes? Or pick a wheel design that has a centercap which covers ALL of the lug holes.

What about the hub-centric or lug-centric issue? It's my understanding that hub-centric wheels do a better job of supporting the weight of the car because the wheel center itself is what's supporting the car, and not the wheel studs. Please correct me if i'm wrong.

I do know that some wheels use centering rings, which I guess is better than the studs doing all the work? From TireRack:

http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/tech/centerb.htm

Thanks for the replies fellas. Keep 'em coming.