You’re staring at a wicked set of aftermarket rims online, imagining how they’ll transform your Can-Am Traxter. But just as you’re about to click “buy,” a wave of uncertainty hits you. Will they actually fit? Is the bolt pattern right? What even is offset?
We’ve all been there. Ordering the wrong wheels is a frustrating and expensive mistake that leaves your rig stuck in the garage. The secret to avoiding this headache lies in understanding a few key numbers. Getting a handle on your Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern is the difference between a seamless upgrade and a box of very heavy, very shiny paperweights.
You want to confidently choose wheels that not only look incredible but also boost your Traxter’s performance and keep you safe on the trail. And that’s exactly what we’re going to do.
This guide will break down everything you need to know, from decoding the bolt pattern to choosing the right materials. Let’s get your rig the upgrade it deserves.
What is the Can-Am Traxter Bolt Pattern? Decoding the Numbers
Before we dive into the fun stuff like styles and finishes, we have to talk about the single most important factor for fitment: the bolt pattern. This is a non-negotiable measurement.
A bolt pattern is made of two numbers. For example, you’ll see it written as 4x137mm. It’s a simple code that tells you everything you need to know about how a wheel mounts to your hub.
The Standard Traxter Bolt Pattern: 4×137
For nearly all modern Can-Am Traxter (also known as Defender) models, the factory bolt pattern is 4×137. Let’s break that down:
- The first number (4): This tells you how many lug nut holes are on the wheel and how many studs are on your Traxter’s hub. In this case, it’s four.
- The second number (137): This is the diameter of an imaginary circle that runs through the center of those four lug holes, measured in millimeters.
While 4×137 is the standard, always double-check the specs for your specific year and sub-model before spending any money. A quick search of your owner’s manual or a call to the dealer can save you a massive headache.
Why You Can’t Ignore the Bolt Pattern
Trying to force a wheel with the wrong bolt pattern onto your machine is incredibly dangerous. A mismatched pattern means the wheel will not sit flush against the hub.
This creates immense stress on the wheel studs, which can lead to severe vibration, premature wear on your hub bearings, and ultimately, the studs shearing off. A wheel separating from your vehicle at speed is a catastrophic failure you don’t want to experience.
A Complete Can-Am Traxter Wheels, Rims and Bolt Pattern Guide
Once you’ve confirmed your 4×137 bolt pattern, you can move on to the other critical measurements that determine how the wheel sits and performs. This is where this Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern guide becomes your best friend.
Understanding Wheel Offset and Backspacing
Offset and backspacing determine your wheel’s horizontal position in the wheel well. Getting this right is crucial for clearing suspension components and avoiding tire rub.
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Offset: This is the distance (in millimeters) from the wheel’s mounting surface to its centerline.
- Positive Offset: The mounting surface is toward the front (street side) of the wheel. This pulls the wheel further into the fender well.
- Negative Offset: The mounting surface is toward the back of the wheel. This pushes the wheel further out, creating a wider, more aggressive stance.
- Zero Offset: The mounting surface is perfectly aligned with the wheel’s centerline.
- Backspacing: This is the distance from the wheel’s mounting surface to its rearmost edge. It’s a simpler way to think about how much space you have behind the wheel.
Most aftermarket wheels for the Traxter have a different offset than stock to provide a wider, more stable footprint. A common aftermarket offset is around 5+2, which means 5 inches of backspacing and 2 inches on the “front” side, pushing the wheel out slightly.
Choosing the Right Wheel and Rim Size
Your Traxter likely came with 12-inch or 14-inch diameter wheels from the factory. When upgrading, you need to consider both the wheel diameter and width.
Upsizing to a 14-inch or 15-inch wheel is a popular modification. It opens up a wider selection of aggressive tires and gives the machine a more modern look. However, bigger isn’t always better. Larger wheels are heavier, which increases unsprung weight and can slightly impact acceleration and suspension performance.
A common aftermarket wheel width is 7 inches (e.g., 14×7). This width is versatile and accommodates a huge range of popular off-road tire sizes without issues.
Material Matters: Steel vs. Aluminum Rims
Your choice of material impacts weight, durability, and cost. There’s no single “best” option; it depends on your riding style and priorities.
- Steel Wheels: These are the workhorses. They are heavier and less flashy, but they are incredibly durable and relatively cheap. If you bash a steel wheel on a rock, you can often hammer it back into a usable shape to get home. This focus on repair over replacement is a key part of sustainable Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern best practices.
- Cast Aluminum Wheels: This is the most common aftermarket choice. They offer a great balance of strength, light weight, and endless style options. They dissipate heat better than steel but are more brittle. A hard impact that would dent a steel wheel might crack an aluminum one.
- Forged Aluminum Wheels: The top-of-the-line option. Forging creates an incredibly dense and strong wheel that is also very lightweight. They are the strongest and most expensive option, usually reserved for racing or extreme performance builds.
How to Measure Your Traxter’s Bolt Pattern Yourself
If you’re ever in doubt or looking at a used set of wheels without markings, you can easily measure the bolt pattern yourself. This is a crucial skill in our “how to Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern” lesson.
Tools You’ll Need
- A good quality tape measure or a digital caliper
- A straight edge (if using a tape measure)
Step-by-Step Measurement for a 4-Lug Hub
- Pick a Stud: Choose any one of the four wheel studs on your hub.
- Measure Across: Measure from the center of that first stud directly across the hub to the center of the stud opposite it.
- Confirm the Measurement: The distance you measure is the second number in your bolt pattern. For a Traxter, this should be 137mm (or approximately 5.4 inches).
Pro Tip: Measuring from the outer edge of one stud to the inner edge of the opposite stud is a quick and accurate way to find the center-to-center distance without guessing.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Can-Am Traxter Wheels and Rims
Beyond just looking cool, a new set of wheels can offer tangible performance gains. Understanding the benefits of Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern knowledge helps justify the investment.
Enhanced Performance and Handling
Lighter aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight—the weight not supported by your suspension. This allows your shocks to react faster to bumps, creating a smoother ride and better traction. A wider stance from a negative offset wheel also increases stability in corners and on off-camber terrain.
Increased Durability for Tough Trails
Many aftermarket wheels, especially those designed for off-road use, are built stronger than the stock steel or basic cast aluminum wheels. For serious rock crawlers, beadlock wheels are a game-changer. They physically clamp the tire’s bead to the rim, allowing you to run very low air pressure for maximum grip without worrying about the tire popping off the wheel.
Custom Aesthetics
Let’s be honest—this is a huge reason we upgrade. A new set of wheels is one of the most dramatic visual changes you can make to your Traxter. With countless designs, colors, and finishes available, you can truly make your machine one-of-a-kind.
Common Problems with Can-Am Traxter Wheels, Rims and Bolt Pattern (And How to Avoid Them)
Proper installation is just as important as choosing the right wheel. Here are some common problems and how to steer clear of them.
Vibration After Installation
A new wobble or vibration is a red flag. The most common causes are improperly torqued lug nuts or a wheel that isn’t hub-centric.
The Fix: Always tighten your lug nuts by hand in a star pattern to ensure the wheel seats evenly. Finish the job with a torque wrench set to the factory specification found in your owner’s manual. If your new wheels have a larger center bore than your hub, you must use hub-centric rings to fill the gap and center the wheel perfectly.
Rubbing on Fenders or Suspension
This happens when your new wheel and tire combination is too big or has the wrong offset. It’s a classic sign that the fitment research wasn’t thorough enough.
The Fix: Before buying, check forums and manufacturer websites to see what wheel and tire combinations other Traxter owners are running successfully. If you want to run a very large tire, you will likely need to install a lift kit for additional clearance.
Stripped Lug Nuts or Studs
This is almost always caused by over-tightening with a powerful impact gun or cross-threading a lug nut. An impact gun is great for removal, but it’s a poor tool for installation.
The Fix: Always start your lug nuts by hand for at least a few turns to ensure they aren’t cross-threaded. Use a calibrated torque wrench for final tightening. It’s the only way to guarantee you’re at the correct spec—not too loose, and not too tight.
Best Practices for Wheel and Rim Care
A good set of wheels is an investment. Following a proper Can-Am Traxter wheels, rims and bolt pattern care guide will keep them looking great and performing safely for years.
Proper Cleaning Techniques
Brake dust and mud can be corrosive to your wheel’s finish. Wash them regularly with a pH-neutral soap designed for automotive wheels. Avoid harsh, acidic wheel cleaners that can stain or strip the finish. Using a biodegradable, eco-friendly soap is a great way to keep your rig and the trail clean.
Regular Inspection and Torque Checks
Make wheel inspection a part of your pre-ride check. Look for any cracks, deep gouges, or bends. Most importantly, re-check your lug nut torque after the first 25-50 miles on a new set of wheels, and then periodically after that. They can sometimes loosen slightly as the wheels settle onto the hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Traxter Wheels, Rims and Bolt Pattern
What is the lug nut torque spec for a Can-Am Traxter?
Torque specs can vary slightly by model and year. However, a common range is between 75-95 ft-lbs (foot-pounds). It is critically important to consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification for your machine to ensure safety.
Can I use wheel spacers on my Traxter?
Yes, but with caution. Spacers can give you a wider stance and provide clearance for larger tires. However, you must use high-quality, hub-centric spacers from a reputable brand. Cheap, non-centric spacers can cause dangerous vibrations and place excessive stress on your wheel studs and bearings.
Do I need hub-centric rings?
If the center bore of your new aftermarket wheel is larger than the hub lip on your Traxter, then yes, you absolutely need them. The hub-centric ring fills this gap, ensuring the wheel is perfectly centered on the hub. This prevents vibration and ensures the vehicle’s weight is supported by the hub, not just the lug studs.
Will wheels from another UTV brand fit my Traxter?
It’s possible, but you must match all the critical specs: the 4×137 bolt pattern, the center bore, and an appropriate offset. For example, some Kawasaki and Arctic Cat models also use a 4×137 pattern. However, it’s always safest and easiest to buy wheels specifically listed as compatible with your Can-Am Traxter model.
Choosing the right wheels for your Can-Am Traxter doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding the core concepts—the 4×137 bolt pattern, offset, and the importance of proper installation—you’re already ahead of the game. This knowledge empowers you to make a smart, safe, and stylish upgrade.
Now you have the expert insights to pick the perfect set of rims, mount them correctly, and care for them for the long haul. Get out there, get them dirty, and enjoy the ride.
Stay safe and we’ll see you on the trail!
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