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
Find answers to common questions about Unplugged Performance products, services, and policies.
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What size tires does the Tesla Model S use?
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Does Unplugged Performance install tires?
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What tire brands does Unplugged Performance carry for Tesla?
I’m thinking of upgrading my wheels / tires in addition to springs, is there anything I should know?
How much range loss should I expect from wider wheels and tires on an EV, and how do I minimize it?
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Should I go for larger diameter wheels?
Do aftermarket wheels improve performance?
Can I use spacers instead of different wheels?
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What is the ideal tire size for a square setup on Model 3?
Do you sell touch up paint?
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Can UP Forged Cybertruck Wheels like the UP-03 Beadlock, CYBRHEX, or CYBRSPOKE fit other trucks?
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Do UP Forged Wheels come with a warranty?
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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.
more FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS you might find interesting
Find answers to common questions about Unplugged Performance products, services, and policies.
Aerodynamics
What’s the most cost-effective PPF coverage for an EV that racks up highway miles?
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Custom Orders & Pre-Orders
Where has Unplugged Performance raced their Tesla race cars?
How much does it cost to build a full-spec Tesla Model 3 race car with Unplugged Performance?
Does Unplugged Performance offer full race car build and support services for Tesla vehicles?
Does Unplugged Performance offer a Tesla racing program consultation along with specialized products and services?
General questions
Installation questions
Ordering & Payment
Other / Miscellaneous
WARRANTY QUESTIONS
Did you know that 90% of our customers express concerns about their vehicle warranty.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
RATED 4.97
(372 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 purchased the camber and toe arm set for Tesla Model X Plaid. The primary purpose of buying these arms was to reduce the inner tire wear. These arms are well engineered, beautifully crafted and built solid. I highly recommend these products made by Unplugged Performance. The craftsmanship of the...
f1dinesh
August 07, 2023
Tight on turns and soft on bumps--the mild springs seemed like the best option for folks who want to keep the vehicle as close to stock as possible while simultaneously improving the vehicle ride quality.
bluetrevian
March 20, 2024
Real cool suspensions the car drives smooth and quite. Made a real difference to the drivability and now I really enjoy driving the car. Absolutely recommend it if your factory shocks have failed. Mine failed in 5 years.
kerbad
October 01, 2024
These rims are loght, give good directional feedback when paired with agoodntire such as the Michelins offered on the site. The ride is comfortable as well, i find no negative impact in road manners or feel. this is an excellent wheel package and i would reccomend it to any Tesla owner! the best...
JLee
May 12, 2026
The UP-03 lightweight & strong wheels are by far THE best wheels I have purchased for my Teslas. These wheels are installed on my Model 3, Y & X. These wheels not only turn heads but also improve efficiency and noticeable difference in speed due to their light weight characteristics. These wheels...
f1dinesh
August 12, 2023
The ascension front fascia makes my model 3 look so much sportier and aggressive. I’ve had it on my car for over a year now and I love it. The car looks way better than stock. This is how the car should look coming out of the factory.
Christian
November 15, 2022
Excellent service and very professional!
Joey
April 10, 2026
I installed this sway bar today. I was shocked by the outcome in terms of handling. It feels almost playful in the corners now, where as before it felt like it was exclusively about straight lines and that corners were sort of something to get through. It's on a medium setting, and I think if I had...
Steven S.
October 20, 2022
Phenomenal brake pads. As my daily grocery getter and occasional spirited driving, yes these may be overkill for some but with how fast the M3P is you can't go wrong with better stopping power. I've had these pads since April and would highly recommend to anyone that does occasional track days...
Benedict D.
October 07, 2022
Love the look of the spoiler, improves efficiency, mailing up for some of the battery degradation.
filmmichaelcox
September 16, 2025
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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
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- 2021 - 2025 Tesla Model S / Plaid Wheels
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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.