ATV/UTV Wheel Offset:

So, you've got an ATV or UTV and you're ready to upgrade the wheels—but what exactly is wheel offset, and what do those numbers mean?

Wheel offset refers to how your wheel mounts in relation to your hub, and it’s commonly expressed as two numbers like 4+2, 5+2, or 3+5. These numbers are in inches:

• The first number (e.g., the “4” in 4+2) is the distance from the inner edge of the wheel to the mounting hub.
• The second number (e.g., the “2” in 4+2) is the distance from the hub to the outer edge of the wheel.

For example, a 4+2 offset means there’s 4 inches between the inner lip and the hub, and 2 inches from the hub to the outer lip. This setup results in a positive offset, meaning the wheels sit more under the vehicle.

A positive offset places the hub closer to the outside edge of the wheel, causing the wheel to sit further inside the fender. This gives your ride a narrower track width, which:

• Improves clearance in tight spaces
• Mimics factory (OEM) handling
• Reduces bump steer (unwanted steering feedback over bumps)
• A 4+2 offset is a great example it offers balanced handling while staying close to stock specifications.

A negative offset means the hub is mounted closer to the inside of the wheel. In this setup, the wheel sticks out past the fenders ideal for riders who want a wider stance.

• For instance, a 3+5 offset pushes the wheels outward, which:
• Enhances overall stability
• Makes room for larger, more aggressive tires
• Adds a bold, aggressive look
• However, negative offsets can increase bump steer and slightly reduce handling precision.

Choosing the right offset depends on your riding style, terrain, and look you're going for:

• Positive offset (4+2, 5+2): Better for trail riding, tighter handling, and OEM-like performance.
• Negative offset (3+5, 2+5): Ideal for mudding, rock crawling, and a wider, more aggressive stance.

ATV & UTV Bolt Pattern Guide: How to Measure and Match Your Wheels:

When buying new ATV or UTV wheels, one of the most important factors to consider is the bolt pattern. If the bolt pattern of the wheels doesn't match your vehicle's hub, the wheels simply won’t fit.

In this complete guide, we explain what an ATV bolt pattern is, how to measure it accurately, and which patterns are most commonly found on different makes and models.

The bolt pattern (also called a lug pattern) describes how the bolts or studs are arranged on your wheel hub. It is defined by two numbers:

• The number of bolts (or lug nuts).
• The diameter of the imaginary circle they form (called the Pitch Circle Diameter, or PCD).

For example, a 4×110 bolt pattern means there are 4 bolts arranged in a circle with a 110mm diameter.

Most ATVs and UTVs use fixed wheel studs, where the wheel is mounted onto the hub and secured with lug nuts. Some use wheel bolts instead, which thread directly into the hub (more common in automobiles).

No matter the method, the bolt pattern and lug pattern essentially refer to the same configuration—the alignment of holes or studs that ensure the wheel fits properly onto the hub.

Count the Bolts or Lugs

Most ATV and UTV wheels use 3, 4, or 5 bolts or lug nuts. Simply count how many are on one hub.

• Park your ATV on level ground.
• Loosen the lug nuts slightly using the correct socket.
• Use a jack and jack stands to lift the ATV safely.
• Fully remove the lug nuts and wheel.

You can now measure either directly on the wheel hub or on the back side of the removed rim.

Method 1: Direct Measurement

• 4-lug wheels: Measure from the center of one lug to the center of the lug directly across from it.
• 5-lug wheels: Measure from the back of one hole to the center of the opposite hole (this one requires more precision).
• 3-lug wheels: Not possible to measure directly—use Method 2.

Use this method when direct measurement is tricky:

• Measure the distance (S) between the center of two adjacent studs or holes.
• Then multiply by a factor:
• 3-lug: S × 1.154
• 4-lug: S × 1.414
• 5-lug: S × 1.7017

Pro Tip: For greater accuracy, measure from the inside edge of one lug to the outside edge of the next—that equals the center-to-center distance.

Most 4x4 ATVs have identical front and rear bolt patterns. However, some 2x4 models or youth ATVs may have different patterns front to back.

To verify, simply repeat the measuring process on both front and rear wheels.