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.
related FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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INSTALLATION guide
For the do it yourselfer or trained mechanic, our in-depth installation guides provide step by step detailed instructions on fitting your Tesla with Unplugged Performance Parts.
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Aerodynamics
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Custom Orders & Pre-Orders
Where has Unplugged Performance raced their Tesla race cars?
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WARRANTY QUESTIONS
Did you know that 90% of our customers express concerns about their vehicle warranty.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
RATED 4.97
(371 REVIEWS)
LEAVE A REVIEW
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.
Great experience. The Unplugged team was very helpful and answered all of my questions regarding the drop and clearance. The photos in the gallery were super helpful as well.
lwrcspr
August 20, 2025
Got a set of the 20x10.5 in Satin Black. They came shipped in very thick cardboard double-boxed with reinforced edges. The wheels were covered in a cloth cover too. Everything is in perfect condition, the wheels are beautiful. Can't wait to install them!
Drake L.
October 16, 2025
Model S / Model S Plaid (2021+) UP x PFC Large Sweep Brake Rotor and Pad Set (For OEM Caliper)
RATED 5.0
I installed these with the race pads.. The car is significantly better at stopping, the pedal feel is fantastic. One of the biggest addtional things I noticed was the decreased weight.. The wheels done thud as hard over bumps, and comfort setting now feels like actual comfort.. The wheels also...
Robert M.
October 10, 2022
A must to get with the coil overs installed on my model 3. I must admit that I was worried that they might stiffen up the chassis a little too much, but they did not. Highly recommended!
Frank
August 09, 2023
These wheels are probably the best thing I’ve spent money on for my Model 3. The range increase was extremely noticeable, the curb bands are genius and they look incredible. I’ve never gotten more compliments on wheels than I have with these. The range benefit is real and makes a big difference...
Zack F.
April 14, 2026
My 2024 performance already has coilovers and every camber, trailing and traction arm you can buy front and rear and the compression rod bearing but still wasn't happy with bodyroll, after I put these on the stiffest setting it helped a lot and still very smooth on the street nothing to crazy I'd...
Steve m.
October 25, 2025
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
So this review is based off of two things, product: how well it performed and customer service.
So with the pre-yoke model s and x, they’re known for their shutter issue and tire wear, so to fix this, I torn between the links from native or UP. So I decided to go with UP, I got the complete kit...
quimai25
October 19, 2022
I placed an order for the Satin Asteroid Graphite wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Tires after I had the Luxury Coilovers installed on my Model Y. Within 2 weeks I was back in Hawthorne to have them mounted, balanced and aligned. The style contrasts perfectly with the Satin PPF wrap on my car. ...
p.flores
September 16, 2022
These carbon fiber seats are amazing in our plaid drag car. Looks like it came from Tesla just like that. ???
Thanks
'@EvSmokeATX
November 11, 2022
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Unplugged Performance is the world leader in premium performance upgrades for Tesla vehicles. With our USA-made line of stylish and high-performance parts, our sole focus is on holistic development and improvement of all Tesla cars.
Unplugged Performance was founded and incubated by the team behind the world-renowned automotive customizer Bulletproof Automotive. Unplugged Performance is the world's leading company focused on the customization and sports performance of Tesla Motors vehicles.
All of our parts are researched and engineered on our own development vehicles with the intention of improving every aspect of the driving and ownership experience. Unplugged produces an exclusive range of premium upgrades to give a new sporty performance identity to Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and the Cybertruck.
Improving on perfection is no easy task, and to do so Unplugged products are professionally designed, prototyped, and manufactured in-house in Hawthorne, CA, and in collaboration with the best motorsports suppliers. The supercar performance of Tesla vehicles meets supercar-grade enhancements with Unplugged Performance.
TESLA MODEL S - Premium Aftermarket Upgrades And Wheels
- Tesla Model S / Model S Plaid (2021 - 2025)
- 2021 - 2025 Tesla Model S / Plaid Wheels
- 2021 - 2026+ Model S / Plaid Performance Brakes
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- 2021 - 2025 Model S / Model S Plaid Interior Upgrades
- 2021 - 2026+ Model S Plaid Racing Safety
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THE UNPLUGGED PERFORMANCE® MARK AND LOGO ARE TRADEMARKS OF UNPLUGGED PERFORMANCE INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PLEASE REVIEW THE TERMS & CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY BEFORE USING OUR WEBSITE.