Okay,

Been hanging out here for about a year, and have had my 05wrx wagon since early December. Throughout that time I've noticed one thing regarding budget minded wheels and recommendations from this site. Everyone seems to roll Rotas. Now what I haven't been able to figure out is why it seems that most Suby owners (at least around here) seem to stay so loyal to one brand.

Don't get me wrong, I've been kicking around what inexpensive kicks I should slap on the wagon, and a set of gunmetal torques or SDRs are in the running, but it would appear that there are other options to consider.

How does the build quality of a Rota wheel, (LP cast production) compare to wheels from Tenzo, Motegi/American Racing, and R2 which are also cast wheels? Do I only hear good things about Rotas because they are actually better than the other brands mentioned, or do I just not hear any positive remarks about the other brands because no one runs them and as such, no one has an opinion to render? I'm not so much concerned with conforming to the norm as to make sure I'm not looking at a wheel that might be from a manufacturer with a less than stellar reputation. All my previous aftermarket wheel experience revolves around billet domestic wheels which are a completely different animal in terms of price and application so input is welcome.

Thanks in advance for any insight,
Chris

 

I think Rotas are so popular because they are hubcentric to scoobies, so you don't need a ring or anything to correct the offset. You combine that with the fact that they're cheap and decent knockoffs of name brand wheels, there you go.

But maybe I'm wrong.