Offset

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel’s hub-mounting surface and the centreline of the wheel, normally measured in millimetres. It determines how far inward or outward the wheel sits relative to the suspension and fender.

Positive, zero and negative offset

Positive offset places the mounting surface toward the street-facing side of the wheel, moving more of the wheel inward. Zero offset places the mounting surface on the centreline. Negative offset places it toward the inboard side, moving the wheel outward.

Why offset matters

Incorrect offset can reduce brake, suspension or fender clearance. A large change may also affect steering feel, bearing loads and scrub radius. Offset must be evaluated together with wheel width because two wheels with the same offset can occupy different positions when their widths differ.

Practical example

Replacing a wheel with a wider model while keeping the same offset adds width on both the inner and outer sides. A fitment check should therefore compare both inner clearance and outer poke rather than considering offset alone.

Related terms

Backspacing, wheel width, brake clearance and wheel poke.