I remember the first time I tried to swap wheels on my old Renegade. Figured it would be a quick afternoon project. Turns out, that specific can am renegade 800 wheel bolt pattern is a bit of a puzzle if you don’t know what you’re looking for. I ended up with a set of wheels that looked great but wouldn’t even thread onto the hubs. Frustrating doesn’t even begin to cover it. You learn pretty fast that not all lug nuts are created equal, and neither are bolt patterns.
This isn’t just about looks; it’s about safety and making sure your ride actually rolls down the trail, not just sits there looking pretty. Getting it wrong can lead to wobbly wheels, damaged hubs, or worse. We’re going to cut through the noise and get you the straight dope on what you need to know.
So, What’s the Actual Can Am Renegade 800 Wheel Bolt Pattern?
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. The can am renegade 800 wheel bolt pattern is, to put it bluntly, specific. Unlike your average car where you might see a few common patterns like 5×114.3 or 4×100, ATVs, especially the more performance-oriented ones like the Renegade, often march to their own drummer. For the Can-Am Renegade 800, you’re generally looking at a 4×137 bolt pattern. That ‘4’ means there are four bolt holes on the wheel, and ‘137’ refers to the diameter in millimeters that these holes are spaced around. This is the key number you absolutely cannot forget.
Now, you might see numbers like ‘4/137’ or ‘4x137mm’. They all mean the same thing. Don’t get bogged down in the millimeters if it’s confusing; just remember 4×137 is your magic number for the hub. This pattern is pretty common across a lot of Can-Am models, not just the Renegade 800, but it’s always best to double-check for your specific year and model, especially if you’re looking at aftermarket parts. Some manufacturers might have slight variations, though for the Renegade 800, 4×137 is the standard you’ll encounter most often.
Why does this matter so much? Imagine trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. That’s what happens if you try to put a wheel with, say, a 4×110 pattern onto your Renegade’s 4×137 hubs. The holes won’t line up.
You might be able to force it a bit, and that’s where real trouble starts. Forcing wheels is a surefire way to strip your lug studs, damage the wheel’s bolt holes, or even warp your brake rotors. It’s not just an aesthetic problem; it’s a mechanical one with potential safety implications. Getting the bolt pattern right makes sure the wheel sits flush and secure against the hub, distributing the load evenly.
This is absolutely fundamental for handling, braking, and the longevity of your ATV’s suspension and drivetrain.
I learned this the hard way. I once bought a set of ‘universal’ ATV wheels online that claimed to fit ‘most models’. They had a 4-lug pattern, and I figured, ‘What could go wrong?’ Well, the holes were a little too close together. I spent an hour with a file trying to make them fit, thinking I was being resourceful. Big mistake. Not only did I ruin the finish on the wheels, but I also ended up with a slight wobble after about 50 miles. Turns out, ‘universal’ often means ‘will fit some, but not perfectly’. Stick to the spec: 4×137 for your Renegade 800.
When you’re shopping, you’ll see this number plastered all over wheel descriptions. If you can’t find it, ask the seller. Don’t guess. If they can’t tell you the bolt pattern, or give you a vague answer, walk away. There are plenty of vendors who know their stuff and will happily provide you with the correct specifications. Your peace of mind, and the integrity of your ATV, are worth the extra effort.
Offset, Backspacing, and Why They Aren’t the Bolt Pattern (but Still Matter)
Okay, so you’ve got the bolt pattern sorted: 4×137. Great. But hold on, that’s not the whole story. If you’ve ever looked at different ATVs side-by-side, you’ll notice some have wheels that stick out way further than others. That’s down to something called ‘offset’ or ‘backspacing’, and it’s just as important as the bolt pattern itself, though for entirely different reasons. It affects how your wheels sit in relation to the fenders and suspension components.
Let’s break down offset. In simple terms, offset is the distance from the mounting surface of the wheel (where it bolts to the hub) to the centerline of the wheel. It’s usually measured in millimeters.
A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel than the centerline. A negative offset means it’s closer to the inside.
For most ATVs like the Renegade 800, you’ll typically find wheels with a negative offset. This pushes the wheel outward, giving your ATV a wider stance.
A wider stance generally means better stability, especially in rough terrain or when cornering hard. Think of it like a sports car having a wider track than a compact economy car – more stability. (See Also: Can I Buy A Full Auto Bolt Carrier )
Backspacing is a related measurement but is measured from the back of the wheel (the part that sits against the hub) to the outer lip of the wheel. It’s usually measured in inches. For a 4×137 bolt pattern, you’ll often see recommended backspacing values that work well for the Renegade 800. Generally, for this machine, you’re looking for something in the range of 3.5 to 5 inches of backspacing, depending on the tire size and whether you want a more aggressive stance or to keep it tucked in a bit. A common OEM spec might be around 4 inches of backspacing with a negative offset.
Why is this a big deal? If you get the bolt pattern right but the offset or backspacing is wrong, your wheels can rub against your fenders, suspension arms, or even the brake calipers. This can cause damage, affect steering, and make your ride unsafe. Imagine fitting a wheel that’s too wide or sits too far out – it’s going to interfere with something. Conversely, a wheel that’s too ‘tucked in’ might rub on suspension components or give you a narrower, less stable feel.
Here’s where things get tricky. Some aftermarket wheels might offer a choice of offsets for the same 4×137 bolt pattern.
If you’re going for larger tires, say 28-inch or 30-inch, you might need a wheel with a bit more negative offset (or less backspacing) to help clear suspension components and fenders. I once bought a set of aftermarket wheels with the correct 4×137 pattern but a significantly different offset than stock.
They looked awesome when bolted on, but my tires would catch the plastic fender flares on full lock turns. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was annoying. I ended up having to trim the flares a bit, which I really didn’t want to do. Lesson learned: always check the recommended offset/backspacing for your tire size and desired look, not just the bolt pattern.
It’s worth noting that the ‘ideal’ offset and backspacing can also depend on your riding style. If you do a lot of technical, rocky crawling, you might prefer a slightly narrower stance to help you squeeze through tight trails. If you’re hitting open trails and mud bogs, a wider stance for stability is usually the way to go. So, while 4×137 is the bolt pattern you need, don’t underestimate the impact of offset and backspacing on how your Renegade 800 performs and handles.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
We’ve talked about the 4×137 bolt pattern and the importance of offset/backspacing. Now, let’s zero in on the pitfalls people often stumble into when upgrading their Can-Am Renegade 800 wheels. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.
The most glaring mistake, as we’ve covered, is buying wheels that don’t match the can am renegade 800 wheel bolt pattern of 4×137. This sounds obvious, but ‘universal fit’ and vague descriptions online are landmines. Always, always confirm the 4×137 specification before you click ‘buy’. If a listing doesn’t clearly state it, ask the seller. If they hem and haw, find another seller. It’s that simple.
Another common blunder is not accounting for tire clearance. People get excited about getting new wheels and forget that bigger tires often require specific wheel offsets or backspacing to avoid rubbing. You might have the correct bolt pattern, but if the wheel pushes your tire into the fender or suspension at full articulation, you’ve got a problem. Before buying, do a quick search for ‘Can-Am Renegade 800 aftermarket wheels and tires’ to see what others are running and what offsets/backspacings they recommend for common tire sizes. This real-world feedback is gold.
Then there’s the issue of lug nuts. It’s not just about the wheel bolt pattern; it’s also about what secures the wheel. For the Renegade 800, you’ll typically use M10x1.25 lug nuts.
However, aftermarket wheels might have different lug nut seating angles or require specific types of lug nuts (like conical or spherical). Some wheels come with their own set of lug nuts, while others expect you to reuse your stock ones. If you’re buying new wheels, ask about the lug nut requirements. Using the wrong lug nuts can lead to them backing off or damaging the wheel seats.
I once reused old lug nuts that had a slightly different seat angle. They tightened up okay, but over time, they started to loosen.
It took me a few weeks to notice because the wobble was subtle at first. Now, I always opt for new, correct-spec lug nuts when I get new wheels. (See Also: Are Mercruiser 5 7 Engines Four Bolt Mains )
Here’s a contrarian take: some people recommend using wheel adapters or spacers to ‘make different bolt patterns fit’. While these can sometimes work in a pinch for cars, I’m generally wary of them on ATVs, especially for a performance machine like the Renegade 800. Adapters add complexity and another point of failure. They can reduce the overall strength of the wheel mounting system and potentially throw off your suspension geometry. Unless you really know what you’re doing and are using high-quality, reputable adapters, it’s usually best to stick to wheels that match your ATV’s native bolt pattern and specifications. The added stress on your wheel studs and bearings is just not worth the risk of fitting non-native wheels.
Lastly, don’t neglect the hub bore. While most ATV wheels are designed to be hub-centric (meaning they center on a raised lip on your ATV’s hub), some aftermarket wheels might have a larger center bore. In these cases, you’ll need hub-centric rings to make sure the wheel is perfectly centered. A wheel that isn’t centered properly, even with the correct bolt pattern and lug nuts tightened, can lead to vibrations and premature wear on your bearings and suspension components. It’s a small detail, but a important one for a smooth and safe ride.
Choosing Aftermarket Wheels for Your Renegade 800
When it’s time to ditch the stock wheels on your Can-Am Renegade 800, you’re entering a world of options. This is where you can really personalize your machine and potentially improve its performance. But with great power comes great responsibility… and the potential to make some costly errors. Let’s talk about what to look for beyond just the correct 4×137 bolt pattern.
First off, material. Most aftermarket ATV wheels are made from either aluminum alloy or steel. Steel wheels are generally cheaper and tougher, but they are significantly heavier. For a performance ATV like the Renegade 800, reducing unsprung weight is a big deal. Less weight on the wheels means your suspension can react faster to bumps, giving you a smoother ride and better traction. Aluminum alloy wheels are lighter, often stronger for their weight, and come in a huge variety of designs. They are usually my go-to for anything beyond basic utility. Brands like ITP, STI, Method, and MSA are popular for a reason – they make quality alloy wheels designed for off-road abuse.
Next up is wheel design and construction. You’ll see one-piece and multi-piece wheels. One-piece wheels are cast or forged from a single piece of metal. Cast wheels are common and cost-effective, while forged wheels are typically stronger and lighter but more expensive. Multi-piece wheels, often called ‘beadlocks’ (though not all multi-piece wheels are beadlocks), are bolted together from several sections. Beadlock wheels are designed to physically clamp the tire bead to the wheel, preventing the tire from de-beading at low pressures on extreme terrain. If you’re doing serious rock crawling or very aggressive riding where tire pressure is a constant concern, beadlocks are a worthwhile investment. For most general trail riding, a high-quality one-piece alloy wheel is more than sufficient.
Here’s a table comparing some common materials and construction types you might encounter when looking for wheels to fit your 4×137 bolt pattern:
| Type | Pros | Cons | Verdict for Renegade 800 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel (One-Piece) | Affordable, very durable, easy to repair. | Heavy, limited design options, prone to rust. | Good for budget builds or extreme utility, but weight is a significant drawback for performance. |
| Aluminum Alloy (Cast, One-Piece) | Lighter than steel, wide range of designs, good balance of cost and performance. | Can be more susceptible to cracking on severe impacts than forged, can be more expensive than steel. | Excellent all-around choice for most Renegade 800 owners. Offers good looks and weight savings. |
| Aluminum Alloy (Forged, One-Piece) | Extremely strong and lightweight, premium look. | Most expensive option, limited designs compared to cast. | Best performance choice if budget allows. Offers maximum weight savings and strength. |
| Beadlock (Multi-Piece) | Prevents tire de-beading at low pressures, important for extreme riding. | Expensive, heavier than non-beadlock alloys, can be more maintenance intensive. | Only necessary for very specialized, aggressive riding. Overkill for most trail riders. |
When selecting wheels, always consider the size. The most common wheel sizes for the Renegade 800 are 12-inch and 14-inch diameter. A 14-inch wheel will generally allow for a wider range of tire profiles and potentially better handling due to a stiffer sidewall, but it can also increase the cost of both wheels and tires. The bolt pattern remains 4×137 regardless of the diameter. Think about the type of riding you do. Aggressive mud riding might benefit from a wheel with a large opening to shed mud, while rock crawling might need a more solid design with thicker lips.
Real-World Use Cases and Tire Pairings
So you’ve got the 4×137 bolt pattern down, you understand offset, and you’re looking at some slick aftermarket wheels. Now, how do you actually pair these wheels with tires for your Can-Am Renegade 800 that perform as good as they look? This is where the rubber meets the road, literally. The wheel and tire combination is what dictates how your ATV handles bumps, grips the trail, and tackles different terrains.
Let’s consider some common riding scenarios and what wheel and tire setups generally work well. The Renegade 800 is a versatile machine, capable of trail riding, mudding, and even some spirited dune riding. Each requires a slightly different approach.
Trail Riding: For general trail riding, you want a tire that offers a good balance of traction, comfort, and durability. An all-terrain (AT) tire is usually the way to go. Popular sizes for the Renegade 800 on 12-inch or 14-inch wheels might be 26×8-12 front and 26×10-12 rear, or 27×9-12 front and 27×11-12 rear.
These sizes typically fit without major modification, provided your wheels have a suitable offset (often a 5+2 or 4+3 for 12-inch wheels, and similar for 14-inch). Tires like the Maxxis Bighorn, ITP Terra Hook, or GBC Dirt Commander are well-regarded for their aggressive tread patterns that bite into dirt, rocks, and roots, while still offering a reasonably smooth ride on harder pack surfaces.
The 4×137 bolt pattern makes sure they mount securely.
Mud Riding: If you live for mud bogs, you need a tire with a deep, widely spaced paddle-like tread that can scoop and throw mud. Tire sizes tend to be larger here, often 28 inches or bigger, and you’ll need wheels with a bit more aggressive offset (more negative, meaning they stick out further) to accommodate the wider tires and provide clearance. For example, 28×10-12 or 30×10-12 tires paired with 12-inch or 14-inch wheels having a 4+3 or 3+4 offset (depending on the wheel width) are common. (See Also: Can Am Merverick X3 Max Xrs Wheel Bolt Pattern )
Mud tires like the SuperATV Assassinator, STI Mud Treker, or AMS Swamp Hog are designed for this. Be warned: these tires are heavy and can significantly impact your ATV’s acceleration and fuel economy. You might also need to consider clutch upgrades to compensate for the extra rotational mass and power demand. Always check if the tires will rub your fenders or frame at full compression and steering lock with your chosen wheels and their 4×137 pattern.
Dune Riding/Sand: For sand, you want tires that float and have paddle-like traction. Rear tires often feature paddles, while front tires might have a ribbed design for steering. Sizes can vary, but you’re generally looking at lighter tires that can help you ‘plane’ over the sand. Wheel choice here is less about aggressive offset and more about keeping weight down. Lighter aluminum wheels with the 4×137 bolt pattern are ideal. Tires like the GBC Shredder or STI Sand Drifter are examples of what you’d look for.
It’s important to remember that tire size and wheel offset interact. A larger tire on a wheel with too much negative offset might rub your fenders. Conversely, a smaller tire on a wheel with too much positive offset might rub your suspension. Always consult the tire manufacturer’s recommended wheel width and offset for the best performance and fitment with your 4×137 bolt pattern wheels.
I made the mistake of going too big too fast on my first mud setup. I got 30-inch tires, which looked awesome, but I didn’t pay enough attention to the wheel offset. They rubbed my fenders so badly that they actually wore down the plastic. I ended up having to either trim the fenders or get wheels with a different offset. I opted for new wheels with a more aggressive negative offset, which pushed them out and cleared the fenders, but also made the steering a bit heavier. It’s a trade-off, and understanding how wheels and tires work together, even with the correct 4×137 bolt pattern, is key to getting it right the first time.
Faq: Your Burning Questions Answered
What Does ‘4×137’ Mean for My Can-Am Renegade 800?
The ‘4×137’ designation for your Can-Am Renegade 800’s wheel bolt pattern means that the wheel has four bolt holes, and the diameter of the circle on which these holes are centered is 137 millimeters. This is the standard specification you need to match when buying new wheels to make sure they fit your ATV’s hubs correctly.
Can I Use Wheels From a Different Can-Am Model on My Renegade 800?
Generally, yes, if that other Can-Am model also uses the 4×137 bolt pattern and has similar offset and backspacing specifications. Many Can-Am ATVs share this bolt pattern, but it’s always wise to confirm the exact specifications for both your Renegade 800 and the donor vehicle or wheel to avoid compatibility issues.
What Are Common Aftermarket Wheel Sizes for the Renegade 800?
Common aftermarket wheel diameters for the Can-Am Renegade 800 are 12 inches and 14 inches. The width of the wheel will vary depending on the tire size you intend to run, but standard widths often range from 7 inches to 10 inches. Always make sure the wheel width is compatible with your chosen tire size.
Do I Need Special Lug Nuts for Aftermarket Wheels on My Renegade 800?
You typically need M10x1.25 lug nuts. However, aftermarket wheels might have different lug nut seat angles (conical vs. spherical) or require specific types. It’s best to check with the wheel manufacturer or seller to confirm the correct lug nut specification for your chosen wheels. Using the wrong lug nuts can cause them to loosen over time or damage the wheel.
Can I Use Car Wheels on My Can-Am Renegade 800?
Generally, no. Car wheels have vastly different bolt patterns (e.g., 5×114.3, 5×100) and offsets, and are designed for a much heavier load and different types of stresses. Trying to adapt car wheels to an ATV is unsafe and will likely lead to damage to your vehicle. Stick to wheels specifically designed for ATVs with the correct 4×137 bolt pattern.
Conclusion
So there you have it. The can am renegade 800 wheel bolt pattern is 4×137, and while that’s the starting point, it’s just the first step. Don’t get caught up in the ‘universal fit’ trap; always verify the specs. Pay attention to offset, backspacing, and lug nut requirements, because these details make all the difference between a smooth ride and a costly mistake.
My advice? Do your homework. Look at what riders with similar setups to what you want are running. Read forums, check out vendor sites, and if you’re unsure, ask the people selling the parts. They might have a sales pitch, but they also usually know their stuff when it comes to fitment. Getting the right wheels and tires is one of the best ways to improve your Renegade’s performance and your overall riding experience.
Ultimately, the goal is to get a set of wheels that are safe, perform well for your riding style, and make your machine look exactly how you want it. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra time upfront to get it right. It’s much cheaper than buying the wrong parts twice.
