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Q: What is Bead Knurling?

Bead knurling is a process used in the manufacturing of tire rims or wheel rims. It refers to the creation of textured or patterned grooves (knurls) along the bead seat area of the rim, where the tire’s bead (the inner edge of the tire) sits.

The purpose of bead knurling is to improve the grip between the tire and the rim, ensuring that the tire remains securely seated on the rim, especially under high pressure or during aggressive driving. This knurling creates small ridges or bumps that increase friction, which helps prevent the tire from slipping or coming off the rim in extreme conditions, such as during high-speed turns, braking, or sudden impacts.

Bead knurling is commonly found in high-performance and racing tires, where tire security and reliability are crucial. It can also be used for certain off-road vehicles or trucks, where the tires endure heavier loads and more rigorous conditions.

In short, bead knurling enhances the performance and safety of tires by ensuring they stay properly attached to the rim, even in demanding situations.

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WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

RATED 4.97 (301 REVIEWS)
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With real reviews from real customers, shop UP products for your Tesla Model S, 3, X, Y and Cybertruck with confidence. Leave reviews and earn up to 2000 UP Rewards points each, redeemable towards exclusive UP Products.

I had another set carbon steel running boards on my Cybertruck for a while and finally got to see the UP Invincible HD Rock Sliders while out at XTakeover this summer. They looked so good and were noticeably more sturdy than what I had on the truck. I replaced mine with a set of these HD Rock...
Josh H. November 17, 2025
These springs are a game changer. Completely revamped my M3 from a performance and cosmetic standpoint. Soft/comfortable during your daily commute and stiff/precise during "spirited" driving. Cabin noise is also drastically reduced. Cannot recommend this product enough. Call and ask for Kirk Nason,...
Jordan C. June 09, 2023
I love the front ascension fascia! Really changes the whole look of the Model 3. My least favorite part of the car was the front bumper and this changed it all for me. Noticeable improvement in downforce as well which is a nice touch. Totally transformed the car and I couldn’t be happier. Also...
zackfeldstein9 September 24, 2022
Having purchased a UP Sport coilover kit for my Model 3, I purchased this kit for my Model Y as well along with Camber & Toe arms. This kit makes an amazing difference to the ride quality and handling on my Model Y. The car handled surprisingly well on the track with minimal rollover thanks to the...
f1dinesh August 08, 2023
Perfect companion product for the luxury suspension kit. An absolute must have for those who modify the springs of their vehicle.
bluetrevian March 20, 2024
Love these 6-points Harness in our S Plaid drag race car. Looks so amazing in the car with the UP carbon fiber seats..??
'@EvSmokeATX November 10, 2022
I wanted the ability to lower my 2018 Model X 100D to improve the looks and aerodynamics. Unplugged Performance Sports Dynamic Lowering Kit did both these things for me. I set my Air Suspension to Low, love the look, and a side benefit is a bump in range, due to better airflow around the X. I use...
kirk_nason September 09, 2022
These bearings were installed for me by a shop that unplugged put me in touch with. Their service was excellent. The bearings were able to be installed with zero use of heat, unlike bearing kits for other cards and potentially from other brands. The road feel and confidence in the back end is...
Steven S. October 20, 2022
Had UP install the HD front bumper with the 11" LEDs. Robust steel construction, makes the truck look more aggressive but lines remain clean. This bumper is what Tesla should have equipped the truck with out of the factory! LEDs are super bright as well. Simply the best looking, best designed,...
Megatron November 19, 2025
You can see my photos under Steve Guevara. WHEELS, what to say about this indescribable addition. There are so many incredible things added to my SMG3, but this wheel set altered the car drastically. The RIDE is much improved with the grip around tight corners like Topanga Canyon with the other four...
smgdcw November 17, 2022
An obviously better compound than stock. Once you get them up to heat they performance impeccably. One of the biggest problems I had was brake fade and fear of not having enough braking capability as I continued with my runs and this is one of the products that helped fix that.
Andrew P. August 23, 2022
I love my Ascension Front Fascia System. It makes my Model 3 look much sportier, and with model 3s just about everywhere these days, it’s great to have my stand out from the crowd.
pkatz September 28, 2022
These are a great set of wheels. I purchased them to replace my OEM 2024 M3P wheels. I went with the 19x9.5 in satin black. The wheels are very lightweight and durable. I wrapped them in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires. The wheels are great on the street for daily use and I have used them at...
victor-barbarino May 30, 2025
Went with the burnt titanium, simply looks gorgeous with the finish.
Megatron November 19, 2025
Perfect look and pairing with the high efficiency spoiler and rear diffuser trim on the Model 3 Highland. Shoutout to the Unplugged Performance team for making this happen.
Christian N. December 10, 2025
Got these with my order of Moderate Springs and Street/Track Sway-bars and they do what they are intended to do. Got my alignment darn near within spec which will help with tire wear. I haven't had them for long so I can't comment on durability but they sure are built sturdy as hell. If you are...
850arrrsaylikepirate December 19, 2022
WIFE APPROVED!!! I have a 2018 Model 3 LR AWD with the stock 18" wheels. I've always felt that the ride was a bit stiff and jittery with the stock suspension. Looking around for a solution, I came across coil-over kits which were expensive and I really didn't think I would need the adjustability...
Kameron May 06, 2024
Really nice jacket. A must have for a UP enthusiast!
Montage Ø. November 12, 2025
Had a great experience with Andrew from Unplugged, I sent an email request for more information regarding the camber kit and Andrew called me back quickly and discussed the product and how it will improve the tire wear on my model X. He kept in regular communication from the time of order to...
dominic.orlando84 October 03, 2022
Great mix of performance and style.
Christian N. December 04, 2025
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