Lawdogg

Does anyone have an opinion on whether new replica oem C6 Z06 wheels would be safe to track with used slicks at high speed tracks? Thanks for the input.

whatcop?

I used replicas for the rears which according to a lot of people is a big no no. I didn't have an issues with mine and actually have them up for sale if you are interested. However I'll say this I've seen failures in everything including CCWs.

Lawdogg

I've seen failures of most wheels too, but I am curious if replica oems are any more likely to fail.

John Shiels

just ask yourself how is quality control in China.

GettReal

I think using slicks + high speed tracks you are pushing the limits of the wheel so my opinion is .... why risk it. After seeing two of my friends wreck due to wheel failure (one aftermarket and one OEM C6 wheel) I made a decision to minimize the chance and not go with a replica wheel.

If you said Auto-x, street tires or low speed tracks, my opinion might have been different. We all struggle with budget and where to put money but wheels are usually a one shot deal.

c4cruiser

It's the level (or lack of) quality control and the quality of the material that will make a difference. I have two sets of AFS wheels for my '87 that are Chinese made and so far they have held up for autocross and track days using Hoosier slicks. But as mentione, even OEM wheels can fail when you put heavy loads on them such as hard cornering using race tires.

It might be worth trying to find a set of used OEM wheels to use. Have you looked in the C6 Parts For Sale section or the sticky thread at the top for race parts? If the idea is having a set of wheels just for race rubber, then OEM wheels that may have some scrapes or minor road rash may be a better deal.

Lawdogg

Thanks guys! Point taken.

sothpaw2

Has anyone heard of failure of a wheel with a mild R comp tire mounted, such as Nitto R-II?

Last C5

Yes, two different failures on American made wheels, with Toyo R888s.

RideZX6R

Everytime I see someone with a Rota or other type of replica wheel fail (personally I mean, not on a forum or on video etc... IN PERSON) its been driver error or debris on the track that caused it (ie someone lost it and parts coming of their car were left on the track or hit before the group could be stopped).

Take that for what its worth, I've driven on OEM wheels and knock-offs. Never had an issue.

2 GTOs

I don't have any comment related to the original question on knock offs, but there sure seem to be a lot of people running oem c5z rims. Just an observation

RC45

Aren't all GM's Corvette wheels currently made in China anyway?

John Shiels

no matter what wheel you run you need to check them after a run. Especially when cleaning.

Lawdogg

A lot of competing opinions on this issue. I guess you pay your money and takes your chances.

John Shiels

no clue GS 96 OEM was Japan. Even if they are made in China GM has quality control over them. Face it China can't make dog food without killing them, toys without lead, supplies to manufacture pharmaceuticals or pharmaceuticals themselves. Host of other products like appliances that are killing people. The dishwasher, the toaster, and other things where you need not even need to be using them.

CodeBlack

John, my OEM c6z06 wheels are stamped usa. Which make do the pros use. I've heared you can get used bbs cheap from time to time.

2 GTOs

My 06 c6z wheels say USA, my 08 wheels say Italy. I'm not sure who it trust anymore anyway.

BERETTA

I am a little uncomfortable with the aftermarket chrome wheels, I do have a set that I have done track days with but they are on street tires. For racing I have been using the original C5ZO6 wheels, and CCW's with Hoosiers with no issues. Like John said between every event they get cleaned and checked over really closely.

isnider

Most new OEM C6 wheels are made in Italy by Speedline

Ian

isnider

The new ZR1 Cup Wheels are actually forged and lighter than the standard cast ones. I run the cup wheels and cup tires and they seem to be holding up well. I just don't think I am comfortable with cast repro's and bouncing of the gators at 120+ mph

Ian