I’m not one to throw money at just any gear, but when it comes to off-roading, the Method 705 Bead Grip wheels are a game-changer you shouldn’t sleep on.
These wheels aren’t just about looking sharp (though they do); they’re built to tackle the gnarliest trails and keep your tires locked in, no matter how low you air down.
If you’re serious about conquering deserts, mountains, or muddy backroads, these are the wheels you need. Trust me, they’re worth every penny for the confidence they bring to your rig.
My Journey With The Method 705 Bead Grip Wheels
Picture this: I’m out in the middle of nowhere, my Jeep kicking up dust on a rocky trail in the Mojave.
The sun’s beating down, and I’m airing my tires down to a measly 12 PSI to get that extra grip on the uneven terrain.
In the past, I’d be sweating bullets, worrying about my tires slipping off the rim.
But with the Method 705 Bead Grip wheels? Not a single worry.
These wheels have been my trusty sidekick for over a year now, and they’ve transformed how I approach off-roading.
My first encounter with the 705s was at a local off-road shop. The split 5-spoke design caught my eye immediately—sleek yet rugged, with those 10 windowed cutouts giving them a vibe that screams adventure.
I wasn’t just sold on looks, though. The shop guy raved about Method’s Bead Grip technology, which lets you run super low tire pressures without the risk of debeading. For someone like me who loves pushing the limits on technical trails, that was music to my ears.
I slapped a set of 17-inch 705s on my Jeep Wrangler, paired them with some beefy 35-inch all-terrain tires, and hit the trails.
The first real test came on a weekend trip to Johnson Valley. The terrain was a mix of loose sand, jagged rocks, and steep inclines—basically, a tire’s worst nightmare. I aired down to 10 PSI, expecting to baby my rig to avoid trouble.
But the Bead Grips held firm. No wobbles, no leaks, no drama. I crawled over boulders and powered through soft dunes, feeling like I was cheating physics. Even my buddy, who’s been off-roading longer than I have, was impressed.
He kept saying, “Man, those wheels are legit.” And they are. They’ve given me the confidence to tackle trails I’d have second-guessed before, and that’s worth its weight in gold.
What Makes The Method 705 Bead Grip Special?
Let’s talk about what sets these wheels apart. The Method 705 Bead Grip isn’t your average off-road wheel. It’s engineered with a patented Bead Grip technology that’s like a secret weapon for overlanders and rock crawlers.
The wheel’s rim has a unique groove that grips the tire bead tighter as you lower the pressure, keeping it locked in place without needing a full-on beadlock setup.
This means you can run pressures as low as 8-10 PSI for maximum traction on rough terrain, all while avoiding the hassle and cost of traditional beadlocks.
The design is another standout.
The split 5-spoke layout isn’t just for show—it’s beefy enough to handle abuse but light enough to keep your rig agile.
Those 10 windowed cutouts reduce weight and add a touch of style that turns heads at trailheads.
Plus, Method uses a solid A356 aluminum alloy with T6 heat treatment, so these wheels are built to take a beating.
Whether you’re slamming into rocks or grinding through gravel, they hold up. I’ve put mine through hell, and they still look as good as the day I bought them, minus a few battle scars that I wear like badges of honor.
Pros of The Method 705 Bead Grip Wheels
- Unmatched Tire Security at Low Pressures
The biggest win for me is how these wheels handle low tire pressures. The Bead Grip technology is a lifesaver when you’re airing down for technical trails. I’ve gone as low as 8 PSI on some gnarly rock climbs, and my tires stayed glued to the rims.
No slipping, no debeading, just pure traction. It’s like having the benefits of a beadlock without the extra weight or maintenance. If you’re someone who loves pushing your rig to the limit, this feature alone makes the 705s a must-have.
- Durability That Laughs at Rough Terrain
These wheels are tough as nails. I’ve smashed them into rocks, scraped them on ledges, and dragged them through muddy ruts, and they’ve barely flinched. The A356 aluminum and T6 heat treatment mean they can take a pounding and keep rolling.
After a year of hard use, I’ve got some minor scratches, but no bends, cracks, or structural issues. For off-roaders who don’t want to baby their gear, this durability is a huge plus.
- Lightweight Yet Strong
At about 28 pounds for the 17-inch version, the 705s strike a great balance between strength and weight. They’re not as heavy as some steel wheels, which helps keep your suspension happy and improves fuel efficiency.
But they’re still robust enough to handle heavy loads and rough trails. I’ve noticed my Jeep feels more nimble with these wheels compared to my old, clunkier rims, especially on long overland trips.
- Killer Looks That Turn Heads
Let’s be real—looks matter. The 705’s split 5-spoke design with those angular windows gives my rig a rugged, modern vibe. I’ve had strangers at gas stations and trailheads compliment them, and even the tire shop guys gave me props when I got my tires mounted.
Available in finishes like matte black and bronze, they add a custom touch without being over-the-top flashy. It’s the kind of style that says, “I’m serious about off-roading, but I’ve got taste.”
- Easy to Clean and Maintain
Off-roading gets messy, but the 705s are a breeze to clean. The open design means mud and grime don’t get trapped as easily as they do with some other wheels.
A quick rinse with a hose and a brush usually does the trick, even after a weekend caked in desert dust. This might sound minor, but when you’re exhausted after a long trip, easy cleanup is a godsend.
Cons of The Method 705 Bead Grip Wheels
- Premium Price Tag
Let’s not sugarcoat it—these wheels aren’t cheap.
A single 705 Bead Grip can set you back $300-$350, depending on size and finish.
For a full set, you’re looking at a $1,200-$1,400 investment before tires.
Compared to budget off-road wheels, that’s a big jump.
I felt the sting when I bought mine, but the performance and durability have made it worth it for me.
If you’re on a tight budget, though, the price might give you pause.
- Not True Beadlocks
While the Bead Grip technology is awesome, it’s not a true beadlock. For extreme off-roading—like hardcore rock crawling at Moab or the Rubicon—some purists prefer traditional beadlocks for that extra layer of security.
I’ve never had an issue with the 705s, even on tough trails, but if you’re tackling the absolute gnarliest terrain, you might wish for the real deal. That said, the Bead Grip gets you 90% of the way there without the legal and maintenance headaches of beadlocks.
- Limited Finish Options
Method offers the 705 in a few finishes, like matte black, bronze, and titanium, but the selection isn’t huge. I went with matte black because it matches my Jeep’s vibe, but I know folks who wanted more unique colors or custom options.
If you’re picky about aesthetics, you might feel a bit boxed in. Still, the available finishes are sharp, so it’s not a dealbreaker for most.
Also Read: Are KSP Wheel Spacers Worth It?
Tips For Keeping Your Method 705 Bead Grip Wheels In Top Shape
- Regular Cleaning to Prevent Buildup
Off-roading leaves your wheels coated in everything from mud to brake dust. To keep your 705s looking and performing their best, clean them after every trip. I use a mild car soap and a soft brush to scrub away grime, focusing on the Bead Grip grooves where dirt likes to hide.
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads—they can damage the finish. A quick rinse with a pressure washer works wonders, but don’t blast too close to the valve stems to avoid leaks.
- Inspect for Damage After Tough Runs
These wheels are tough, but they’re not invincible. After a hard day on the trails, I always check for dings, scratches, or bends. Pay close attention to the Bead Grip lip, since that’s where the tire seals.
A small nick might not seem like a big deal, but it can mess with the bead seal over time. If you spot anything serious, take it to a pro for repair. I’ve been lucky so far, but catching issues early saves you headaches.
- Torque Lug Nuts Properly
When you mount your 705s or rotate tires, make sure the lug nuts are torqued to spec—usually around 90-100 ft-lbs for most trucks and SUVs. I learned this the hard way when I overtightened mine early on and warped a lug hole slightly.
Use a torque wrench and check the torque after your first 50-100 miles of driving. It’s a small step that keeps your wheels secure and prevents vibration issues.
- Protect the Finish with Wax
To keep the finish looking fresh, I apply a coat of automotive wax to my 705s every few months. It creates a barrier against UV rays, road salt, and trail grime, which can dull the matte or bronze coatings over time.
Just spread a thin layer with a microfiber cloth, let it dry, and buff it off. It’s like sunscreen for your wheels, and it makes cleaning easier too.
- Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Since the Bead Grip tech is all about low-pressure performance, you need to keep an eye on your tire pressures. I use a digital gauge before and after trips to make sure I’m in the sweet spot—usually 10-15 PSI for off-road, 30-35 PSI for highway.
Under- or over-inflation can stress the bead seal and wear your tires unevenly. Plus, it’s just good practice for any off-roader.
Comparing The Method 705 Bead Grip to Other Brands
- Black Rhino Wheels: Solid but Less Innovative
Black Rhino makes some killer off-road wheels, and their designs are right up there with Method’s in terms of style.
I’ve run their Armory wheels on a previous rig, and they’re tough, with a similar focus on durability.
But Black Rhino doesn’t have anything like Bead Grip technology.
You’re stuck with standard rims or full beadlocks, which means more maintenance or less low-pressure confidence.
Black Rhino’s wheels are often a bit cheaper, but you’re trading off that game-changing tire security Method offers.
For me, the 705s edge out Black Rhino for technical trails.
- Fuel Off-Road Wheels: Flashy but Heavy
Fuel Off-Road is all about bold, aggressive designs, and their wheels definitely make a statement. I considered their D538 Maverick for my Jeep because the deep-dish look is killer.
But Fuel’s wheels tend to be heavier—sometimes 5-10 pounds more than the 705s—and that extra weight drags on your suspension and fuel economy. They also lack Bead Grip-style tech, so you’re limited on how low you can air down safely.
If you’re more about pavement posing than hardcore off-roading, Fuel might work, but the Method 705s are the better all-around pick.
- Pro Comp Wheels: Budget-Friendly but Basic
Pro Comp is a go-to for budget-conscious off-roaders, and their Series 69 wheels are a solid choice if you’re pinching pennies. I’ve got buddies who swear by them, and they hold up decently on moderate trails.
But they’re heavier than the 705s, and the designs are pretty plain-Jane compared to Method’s sleek aesthetic. Pro Comp doesn’t offer any low-pressure tech, so you’re gambling with tire beads on tough terrain.
For casual off-roading, they’re fine, but the 705s are in a different league for serious adventurers.
- Vision Off-Road Wheels: Affordable but Fragile
Vision Off-Road wheels are another budget option, and their Manx series has a rugged vibe that’s tempting. I looked at them before settling on Method, mainly because they’re dirt cheap.
But after talking to a few guys who’ve bent or cracked Vision wheels on rocky trails, I got cold feet. They’re lighter than some competitors but not as durable as the 705s, and they lack any specialized tech for low-pressure performance.
If you’re just cruising fire roads, Vision might do, but Method’s quality and innovation win for real off-road abuse.
Also Read: Is Chemical Guys Diablo Wheel Cleaner Worth It?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Method Bead Grip technology uses a specially designed rim groove that grips the tire bead more tightly as you lower the tire pressure. This keeps the tire locked in place, even at pressures as low as 8-10 PSI, without needing a traditional beadlock. It’s a clever middle ground that gives you beadlock-like performance with less weight and maintenance, perfect for off-roaders who want traction without the hassle.
Beadlock wheels aren’t street-legal in many places because they use bolts to clamp the tire bead, which can loosen under high-speed driving or vibrate free on highways. This poses a safety risk, and the design often doesn’t meet DOT standards for road use. Method’s Bead Grip sidesteps this by using a non-mechanical grip system, making it fully street-legal while still excelling off-road.
Method Bead Grip wheels aren’t true beadlocks—they don’t use bolts to secure the tire bead like traditional beadlocks. Instead, they rely on the Bead Grip groove to hold the tire at low pressures. That said, they perform almost as well as beadlocks for most off-road scenarios, and they’re easier to maintain and fully legal for street use.
The Method 705 Bead Grip is a premium off-road wheel with a split 5-spoke, 10-window design, built for adventure. Made from A356 aluminum with T6 heat treatment, it’s strong, lightweight, and features Method’s patented Bead Grip technology. This lets you run low tire pressures for better traction on tough trails without worrying about debeading, all while staying street-legal.
Conclusion: Your Next Upgrade Awaits
After a year of thrashing the Method 705 Bead Grip wheels, I can say they’re the real deal. They’ve taken my off-roading to new heights, letting me tackle trails with confidence and style.
If you’re ready to upgrade your rig and dominate the toughest terrain, these wheels are the way to go. Don’t settle for less—grab a set of 705s and see the difference for yourself.
Your adventures deserve it.
