While the G87 M2 is inarguably the highest-performing M2 ever in its stock configuration, the OEM G87 wheel setup was a compromise. Unlike the M3 and M4, the wheels on the new M2 are only available as cast wheels and are significantly heavier than even the forged M3 and M4 wheels in the same design. We developed chassis-specific fitments for the M2 in our Forged VS-5RS and SM-10RS that simultaneously let owners increase wheel and tire width while saving weight. Optimize your M2’s performance with your ideal fitment on our G87 M2 Wheel and Tire Fitment Guide.
After the runaway success of the prior M2 generation, expectations were high for the G87 M2. A compact frame with an M division powerplant and RWD only layout, cemented the new M2 as the new enthusiast option in the already long list of performance BMWs offered by the M division. The release of the G8X M3 and M4 demonstrated not just the potency of the S58 power plant, but the M division’s increasing interest in xDrive-equipped M cars. Luckily, the fundamental appeal of front-engined rear-wheel drive only models carried through with the launch of the M2. Unlike the prior F87 generation, the G87 launched with a detuned but identical spec “S” series engine from the outset derived from the other M division products. This proven engine was mated to either a 6-speed manual or the venerable 8 speed ZF automatic.
The shared architecture with the M3 and M4 mean a huge variety of components carry over and transition between the larger cars and the M2. Unlike prior generations, wheel and tire clearances improved slightly on the M2 when compared to the M3 and M4. Carbon Ceramic brakes are not available on the M2, making multiple wheel diameters viable from launch. Overall wheel fitment and low offsets mean that our G87 M2 wheels are significantly more concave than prior generation M2 fitments.
With compact steel brakes derived from heavier variants and more room in the front wheel wells for wider wheels and tires, the M2 lends itself quite well to track work. Unlike the F87 M2 competition models sold in the US with massive 400mm brake rotors, the G87 front brakes allow owners to run 18” wheels. This is a huge benefit for a platform that will be hard on its tires because of weight and power. Lightweight wheels and tires can transform a sluggish car, especially on track.
S58 power is abundant and if the G8X M3/M4 aftermarket is anything to go by, this model will likely prove to be highly customizable. Significant cooling ports and heat exchangers are present throughout the front end to keep it cool on and off track as well. Standard adaptive dampers also let you sharpen the suspension tuning without aftermarket parts, ensuring you have built-in adjustment dialed in for both the street and track. While some owners were disappointed with the heavier and more limited factory BMW wheel options for this car, Apex offers a range of lightweight forged wheels headed by our VS-5RS in 18, 19, and 20” diameters.
Don’t just take our word for it. Hear what Road and Track had to say during their initial G87 M2 review.
* Designed to fit BMW 5x112mm and GR Supra center caps
Our new forgings weigh as much as 120 pounds before machining. To form such a thick blank we require special equipment capable of 10,000 metric tons of pressure. This extreme pressure increases the strength of the aluminum by eliminating porosity and improving the grain structure.
Many companies use 3rd-party blanks intended for non-motorsport wheels which can severely limit sizes, concavity, spoke design, and critical brake clearance. We designed our very own blank profiles from scratch to give us total control over the final product.
To be as light as possible the VS-5RS features extra-deep, side-milled spokes. Any excess material that doesn’t add strength is carved out using a precision CNC ball cutter. Side-milling is often deemed cost-prohibitive by others, but for true performance without compromise we believe it's essential.
Our forged Sprint™ wheels are lightweight without the strength compromises found on typical lightweight wheels. First, we carved out as much material as possible, then we purposefully added one pound back to reinforce critical areas, creating a stronger inner lip and a higher load rating.² What’s the point of a lightweight wheel if it’s fragile?
We conducted extensive Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to reinforce high-stress areas and to remove material where it didn’t improve strength. The result is a wheel that is exceptionally light without the strength compromises found on typical lightweight wheels.²
We don't rely solely on computer simulations or unverifiable in-house testing. We believe independent testing is critical to protect consumers in this unregulated industry. We chose STL, an independent lab in Ohio, to test our Sprint™ wheels far above JWL standards, including increases in testing duration, impact drop height, and total load.
Introducing the Sprint™ spec inner lip, with a unique channel profile that makes it even stronger than our previous designs. So even though our Sprint™ wheels are pounds lighter than comparable flow formed wheels, the inner lip is stronger.
More reinforcement
than our flow formed wheels3
From day one, APEX has been on a mission to build wheels that clear big brakes. Our new forged wheels are the product of everything we’ve developed over the past 10+ years, including an innovative high-clearance barrel design and vehicle-specific spoke profiles.
Our new forgings were redesigned to create extra deep, concave spoke profiles. Their new shape allows us to make any profile, from flat to deep and everything in between. Each one is optimized for a specific application using 3D laser scans of factory and aftermarket brake kits.
Whether it's a day at the track or months of street driving, repeated hard braking and acceleration can make a tire slip along the bead seat and go out of balance, causing vibration. Knurled beads help, but are less effective when painted over. Our forged line features unpainted knurled beads that stay sharp and maximize grip.
Track wheels need track tools. Don’t settle for wheels that require undersized tuner lugs or thin walled sockets. All APEX wheels accommodate over-sized race lugs and impact sockets to make swapping wheels lightning fast.
Socket Diameter Clearance
As track enthusiasts ourselves, we know how frustrating it is to try to locate and decipher wheel specs that have been hastily hammered into the rim or become unreadable over time. With our new Sprint™ wheels, we chose to invest a little extra and laser-engrave the specs on the barrel, in plain sight, making them easy to find and read. (You’re welcome.)
All VS-5RS wheels are purpose built for select vehicle applications. Very few applications require centering rings.
All APEX wheels come with our gloss black cap included that is interchangeable with the OE cap. We also offer additional colors for select fitments.
APEX wheels can be used with all OEM mounting hardware, proper aftermarket hardware and most wheel spacers. Wheel locks and stud conversion kits also work perfectly.
All APEX wheels accept OEM and aftermarket Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors and standard fit valve stems. If you don’t have sensors, then select from our metal stems available in multiple finishes.
All Apex Wheels come with a
lifetime structural warranty against defects in
workmanship and materials, plus a 1 year finish warranty.
Exchanges are fast, easy, and hassle-free.
See terms and conditions.
Curb rash or pothole damage on the street? Make an oopsie at
the track?
We’ve all been there. APEX is proud to offer 50% off replacement
wheels, no matter the damage.
See terms and conditions.
¹ VS-5RS vs. the original EC-7R, comparing side milling of 18x9” ET46 5x130 fitment.
² Strength and weight comparisons are based on an 18” BMW 5x120 wheel.
³ Comparing the amount of material reinforcement in our standard inner lip profile vs Sprint™ spec inner lip profile on an 18” wheel.
⁴ All wheels compared with equivalent 18x10” ET25 5x120mm / 72.56mm fitment