What's the difference between beadlock and non-beadlock wheels?

Beadlock wheels and non-beadlock wheels are two different types of wheel designs commonly used in off-road and high-performance vehicles. The main difference between them lies in how they secure the tire to the wheel.

Beadlock Wheels:
- Beadlock wheels have a special ring or clamp that bolts or clamps the tire's bead (the inner edge of the tire) to the wheel. This clamping action effectively "locks" the tire in place on the wheel.
- Beadlock wheels are typically used in off-road applications, such as rock crawling, mud bogging, or desert racing, where low tire pressures are common for better traction. The clamping action prevents the tire from coming off the wheel when the tire is aired down to very low pressures, which can help the tire conform better to the terrain and increase traction.
- Beadlock wheels provide added security and safety in extreme off-road conditions, as they reduce the risk of a tire debeading (coming off the wheel) and the potential for catastrophic failure.

Non-Beadlock Wheels:
- Non-beadlock wheels are the more common and traditional type of wheels found on most vehicles. They rely on the tire's bead and the air pressure inside the tire to keep the tire in place on the wheel.
- Non-beadlock wheels are used on everyday vehicles and most on-road vehicles. They are designed to maintain the integrity of the tire-to-wheel connection at standard tire pressures.
- Non-beadlock wheels are lighter and less complex than beadlock wheels, making them suitable for vehicles where weight and complexity are concerns.

In summary, the primary difference between beadlock and non-beadlock wheels is how they secure the tire to the wheel. Beadlock wheels are designed for extreme off-road use, where low tire pressures are common and added security is essential, while non-beadlock wheels are the standard choice for most on-road and off-road vehicles. When choosing between these two types of wheels, it's essential to consider the intended use of the vehicle and the specific demands of the terrain and driving conditions.