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DayTripping

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Thanks, how do you like the combo so far?
 

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Thanks, how do you like the combo so far?

I didn't end up driving it today but tomorrow I'll be going on a 2 hour round trip so I'll definitely figure out how I like it as well as some good mileage data
 
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Just installed a set of Atomic wheels on our Rivian. We had them in the garage for a few months, waiting for the OEM 21" tires to wear out. They were close to done around 25k mi, and felt shaky in the wet, so on with the Atomics. We went for 20" in satin black, with the Michelin Defender LTX A/S2 tire in 275/60R20. This was a custom order at the time, but I believe the wheels now go by AWZ2?

Could not be happier! The wheels look fantastic, and the photos don't do justice to the real-world look and the quality of the machining and finish. Compared to the factory 22" dark wheels, these are far more refined.

There is also a notable difference in road behavior (even the wife noticed it, no offense...). I am an engineer and not one to rationalize or blindly drink koolaid, but I have no doubt that the R1S feels more grounded (e.g. over bumps), lighter on the steering, and more comfortable/damp. Of course the tires play a role too, but the 10lb weight savings per wheel make a clear difference in the unsprung mass and sensation behind the wheel. No increase in noise with the new tires or loss in responsiveness on corners. The tires also bulge out from the rim a little more than the 21s, so curb rash is much less likely.

A couple of pics below. Delighted with the new package, and the Atomic guys were extremely responsive and helpful with the order. Looking forward to putting some miles on these and see how they compare on efficiency with the OEM 21s.

IMG_9469.jpg


IMG_9468.jpg
 

DayTripping

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Those wheels look great on it. They look much better on, than in the box.

All the unsprung weight savings is huge even on a pretty heavy vehicle. On a model Y I saved 5 pounds per corner and it was amazing how much more nimble that car felt.

It looks like you went with the LTX M/S2's. How do you like them so far. I bought 20" Atomic Wheels and still on the fence between the new Goodyears or going with the ones you have.
 

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DayTripping

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@DayTripping, I only have 100mi on the tires so far, so can't really say much except first impressions... Silent, less harsh over bumps than the OEM 21s, great stability and control. I've traded an inch of rim diameter for an inch of tire sidewall, but that hasn't made cornering any looser, from what I can tell.

I am assuming you're talking about the Goodyear Wrangler Territory ATs? If I am reading your specs right, you're in Dallas? Why would you need a winter service-rated tire? I have no experience on these, but looking at the tread pattern I am guessing you trade some longevity and noise in return for the winter performance. The Michelin LTX M/S2 is all-season and looks more at home for dry road use. I also have no experience with any Goodyear tires, but I have great faith in Michelin. They seem to pull off almost impossible compromises and their quality is amazing, IMHO.

The other tire I contemplated was the Michelin LTX Platinum, but I just don't see the rationale. Other Rivian drivers rave about them, but they are very heavy and you undo all the weight savings from the Atomic wheels.
Yes, I am in Dallas. I am also currently on 21's. So your comments are helpful. I'd love to hear more as you put more miles on this combination

Like you, I have a lot of faith in Michelins. I run them on almost all my cars, trucks, and motorcycles but have veered into other brands more recently. I htink in some areas, Michelin has become complacent. An example of that was the tires for my Model 3. I recently bought Hankooks iON Evo to replace the Michelins I had. At a minimum, they get the same efficiency, if not better, but are quieter, stop, accelerate, and handle better. It opened my eyes to the fact that there are other good choices than Michelin.

Going in the LTX M/S2's were my plan as like you, I ruled out the Platinums. Since I was specifically going with a lighter wheel, I didn't want to give back the weight savings, especially since it is unsprung weight. I am leaning toward the Goodyears because they were specifically tuned for Rivians. While they say AT they are more of an AS tire.

That aspect alone is pretty compelling, as I am not hyper focused on efficiency. Wet and dry traction are important to me. When I look at the UTOQ ratings for the GY's, they have lower treadlife (not surprising) but still good and better traction. High on my list, if not the highest, will be the overall handling. Next would be quietness which I rate about the same as efficiency in importance. So basically, I'd prioritize as follows:
  1. Handling/overall dynamics/braking
  2. Ride comfort
  3. Noise/efficiency
  4. Adverse weather/terrain capability (snow, mud, etc.)
  5. Tire longevity (preferably 30k or better)
  6. Aesthetics
If I am within 5% efficiency of my 21's I'll be happy. If within 10% I'll just deal with it. I am probably 90-95% onroad but that may change since getting the Rivian which is much more capable offroad than my last truck. Heavy snow capability isn't a strong requirement so both would likely do. I might take the truck to Colorado once or twice during the winter and we don't get much snow in Dallas otherwise.

So the way I am looking at it currently is the LTX's are the safe choice, but are they the best choice?This is my best chance to get better without throwing away money. The initial reports on the GY's have been promising. If they had a 60-day trial period like Michelin, I'd be more inclined to give them a try. It looks like a lot of development went into them to tune them for Rivians whereas the LTX are generically EV tuned.

From a curb appeal perspective the GY's win by a long shot. The LTXs still remind me of minivan tires. This is one area where I don't think the tires are very close in categories that matter to me.

My concerns about the LTX's are the wet traction can be lacking and lateral grip isn't their forte. It's sort of like getting custom-made shoes vs. off-the-rack. Maybe with the off-the-rack shoes, you get lucky and have a good fit. So whatever I buy I am stuck with for a while as my wife would kill me if I want to go change tires after just buying a new set, on top of just buying the wheels.
 
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DayTripping

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Not a lot of real world examples for them yet. I bought my Atomic Wheels specifically to use with the Goodyears. I actually changed my wheel selection to better work with them.

Did you use the stock lug nuts or go with something else? I got a thin wall socket to use the stock ones.
 
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Today, we have the privilege of showcasing the first photos of the AWX wheels installed. A sleek, multi-spoke design that combines style with improved performance!
AWX20_Rivian_SatinBlack_Stamp2.jpg

AWX20_Rivian_SatinBlack_Stamp1.webp


For those who seek another design, color, or specifications, we offer the option to place a custom order.

Discover our custom-made Fully Forged Wheels, a world-class product that offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank.
 
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A lightweight and aerodynamic design is the best way to take your Rivian to the next level. Today, we’re bringing you these amazing new photos of our AW01 !

Oh, and remember—it’s in stock and ready to ship right now! ?
Rivian R1T R1S Real Life Photos of the Rivian Wheels / Rims Options [Compilation] aw0120_rivian_satinblack_stamp_site3-



Rivian R1T R1S Real Life Photos of the Rivian Wheels / Rims Options [Compilation] aw0120_rivian_satinblack_stamp_site2-


Rivian R1T R1S Real Life Photos of the Rivian Wheels / Rims Options [Compilation] aw0120_rivian_satinblack_stamp_site-


Rivian R1T R1S Real Life Photos of the Rivian Wheels / Rims Options [Compilation] aw0120_rivian_satinblack_stamp_site1-


For those who seek another design, color, or specifications, we offer the option to place a custom order.

Discover our custom-made Fully Forged Wheels, a world-class product that offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank.
 
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Atomic Wheels

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Huge thanks to our customer for sharing the first amazing shots of the AW08 in Satin Bronze! ?

Good news—they’re in stock and ready to ship! Don’t miss out!
aw0820_rivian_satinbronze_stamp1-png.jpg


aw0820_rivian_satinbronze_stamp2-png.jpg


For those who seek another design, color, or specifications, we offer the option to place a custom order.

Discover our custom-made Fully Forged Wheels, a world-class product that offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank.
 

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And yes, we finally have it — and it's a true pleasure for us to show you the first photo of the AWD in action! One of our newest models! Don’t miss out on yours!


AWD_20_SatinBlack_Rivian_Stamp_1.jpg


For those who seek another design, color, or specifications, we offer the option to place a custom order.

Discover our custom-made Fully Forged Wheels, a world-class product that offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank.
 
 








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