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Technical Discussion

APEX Wheel Styles & Features

Article | 08/23/2018 by Brandon Kimbell

Updated on 08/06/2024

Lightweight, strong, affordable. Choose three.

We are not a design company. We are not a fashion accessory company. We make wheels that fit, function, and perform to the highest standard, period. Looking great is just a byproduct of a functional, purposeful setup.

Choosing the right wheel comes down to more than just appearance. Each of our models has its own unique traits.

Flow Formed Designs Lightweight & durable track wheels at an affordable price. Load ratings meet JWL standards.

ARC-8 17" / 18" / 19" Learn More

The lightest wheel we make. Also the most affordable. A deep lug recess allows for easy access for beefy impact sockets without scratching the wheel face. Available in Profile 1 (less concavity) and Profile 3 (deep concavity). The less concave profile provides increased caliper clearance on narrow applications, while the deep concave profile reduces weight and creates a stunningly aggressive appearance on low offset and wide width applications. Both profiles are available in 17”, 18”, and 19” diameters.

EC-7 18" / 19" Learn More

Massive brake clearance & a plethora of fitments. The curved spokes of the EC-7’s face beautifully contour around some of the largest brake calipers available. The split "Y" spokes were carefully evaluated from every aspect to ensure light weight and remarkable strength. Available in Profile 1 (less concavity), Profile 2 (medium concavity), and Profile 3 (deep concavity). Profile 1 provides increased caliper clearance on narrow applications, while the deepest concave face reduces weight and creates a stunningly aggressive appearance on low offset and wide-width applications. All three profiles are available in both 18”, and 19” diameters.

FL-5 18" Learn More

Gorgeous flow formed lip with I-beam spokes for reduced weight. Both the inner and outer lips are flow formed to stand up to all the abuse the street and track have to offer. The spokes of the FL-5 were designed to be robust where they need to be, and extra lightweight where they should be. Weight is reduced by CNC machining material out from the sides of each spoke. It’s expensive and avoided by almost every manufacturer, but affordable with volume. Available in Shallow, Medium, and Deep lip profiles. This maximizes spoke concavity and reduces weight on the FL-5 design.

SM-10 18" / 19" Learn More

Modern design with reinforced lips and I-beam spokes. Like the FL-5, the SM-10 spokes were also designed to be robust where they need to be, and extra lightweight where they should be. Weight is reduced by CNC machining material out from the sides of each spoke. Available in Profile 2 (medium concavity) and Profile 3 (deep concavity). Both profiles are available in 18”, and 19” diameters.

Forged Designs Designed with high-end features for the most demanding conditions. Load ratings exceed JWL standards.

ARC-8R 17" / 18" / 19" Learn More

Classic look with modern performance. It's the ultimate formula. Now enhanced with all the added benefits of forged manufacturing. The ARC-8R is a significantly stronger version of our most popular flow formed design, and now feels right at home on today's more powerful, heavier cars with massive brake setups.

EC-7R 17" / 18" / 19" Learn More

Lighter, stronger, and more functional. Even more brake clearance than the original flow formed version thanks to "I" beam spokes and forged manufacturing.

Need help picking a design? View our Fitment Gallery - Be sure to search for your specific chassis!

Need to know what fits your car? Check out our Vehicle-Specific Fitment guides

Brandon Kimbell

Brandon is a Porsche Fitment Expert at APEX Wheels. Prior to joining APEX in 2022, he worked as Office Manager for a Porsche & Ferrari service and race shop, guiding customers in all areas – suspension, power, aesthetics, you-name-it. His first foray into racing came In college when he was asked to assist at a PCA club race. Says Brandon, “I figured if I am already making the drive, I might as well enter the HPDE happening at the same time.” He hasn't stopped since. Among the various cars he has owned and/or tracked are a ‘74 Corvette Convertible, ’74 Firebird Formula 400, ‘17 GTI, ‘07 Cayman S, and his current ride, a ‘12 Cayman R (BGB X51 pack 3.8L) with staggered APEX EC-7RS 18x9”ET46 & 18x10” ET36 in Motorsport Gold. Fun Fact: Brandon is a big fan of SIM racing, which he uses to learn about a new track he’s going to or get a refresher on a familiar track, as well as improve his racecraft.Have questions about wheels for your Porsche? Use our contact form and ask for Brandon.

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