Konig Wheels Review: Are They Good, Bad or Cheap Reps?
If you’ve been looking to buy wheels, you’ve no doubt heard the name Konig. One of the biggest names in the wheel industry, Konig has been around forever and produces a huge range of wheels.
But, just how good are Konig wheels? Are they actually good quality or are they cheap reps?
In this post, I’m going to review Konig in detail and cover whether their wheels are worth your money.
History On Konig
Konig is the German word for “king”, but despite the name Konig wheels is actually an American brand that was launched in the 1980s when car modifying was starting to become popular, to fill a gap in the marketing for affordable aftermarket wheels.
Konig gained decent popularity and did quite well, with its range of wheels for both domestic and tuner cars. They made many replica wheels in the early days and were generally considered cheap wheels, though many people ran them on their cars.
In 2005, Konig was bought by YHI International, a large automotive parts distributor and wheel manufacturer from Singapore. YHI also owns 35% of OZ Racing as is the distributor and producer for Enkei wheels, as well as owning their own wheels brands such as Advanti Racing (who produced wheels for the Formula 1 Mercedes Benz team in 2013-2015).
This acquisition allowed Konig to really ramp up their production and the quality of their wheels significantly improved.
In 2010, Konig started producing their flow formed wheel line which is mainly what has brought them back into popularity in the last couple of years.
These wheels are light, strong and cheap, and come in a wide range of designs making them very popular. We’ll talk about these a bit more in a bit.
Konig (through YHI) owns a number of other wheel brands including Maxxim, Bravado Performance, and Mamba Off-road, and also produce wheels for a number of OEM car manufacturers and even other wheel brands.
Konig Wheel Lines
Konig currently have two lines of wheels, along with a third they are preparing for release.
Konig Mainline
The Mainline line of wheels are the wheels that Konig has been making since forever. This line has seen hundreds of wheel designs over the years, many of which are discontinued, and currently feature 33 different wheels available in a range of sizes, widths and finishes.
The Mainlines are made as affordable, aftermarket wheels that are best suited for street cars, daily drivers and show cars.
Konig Flow Formed
Konig’s Flow Formed line is the line they are currently pushing most and is what has made Konig popular again in recent years.
These wheels currently come in 21 different designs that are much more in line with the type of wheels that are popular today, based heavily on the performance look that’s in right now.
These wheels are made to be incredibly light and durable, making them good for both street and track use. They are also very low priced for the quality, making them some of the best value for money wheels on the market today.
Konig Forged
While Konig does not have any forged wheels out at the moment, according to their website they are planning to release a forged wheel line-up this year (2023) and have three wheel designs (in the image above) currently listed on their website.
Once the Forged line has been released, I will update this article.
How Konig Wheels Are Made
How wheels are made has a huge impact on how good they are as well as how they perform. Konig currently makes their wheels using two difference processes – cast and flow formed.
Mainline
Konig’s Mainline wheels are made using casting. Casting is the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to make wheels, but it is also the method that results in the heaviest wheels that are the weakest.
This is due to the fact that casting simply involves pouring the molten allow into a mold, letting it cool and then removing the wheel. This can result in inconsistencies in the metal as well as impurities and porosity, all which weakens the wheel and requires extra material to be added to the wheel design in order to make them sufficiently strong.
The benefit of casting is that it allows them to sell the wheels for cheap, and for street wheels this is often good enough, which is why most OEM wheels are cast.
Basically, the Konig Mainline wheels are ok quality which will be good enough for street use if you want to make your car look better, but don’t rely on them for regular track use.
Flow Formed
Konig’s Flow Formed wheels are really where it’s at when it comes to quality affordable wheels.
These wheels are made from A356.2 T6 aluminium, commonly using for aircraft and aerospace parts, and are formed using Enkei’s M.A.T. (Most Advanced Technology) process.
The M.A.T. process is a two-step process which involves casting a wheel center, and then flow forming the barrel by putting the wheel on a machine, spinning it at high speeds while heat is applied and rollers apply pressure to stretch out and form the barrel.
The benefit of this process is that it creates a much tighter and more uniform grain structure in the metal, resulting in a much stronger and lighter wheel than a regular cast wheel, while being much cheaper than a fully forged wheel.
These wheels are very durable and lightweight while being extremely affordable, making them perfect for track use as well as on the street.
Where Are Konig Wheels Made?
Konig wheels are made in either Thailand or Taiwan, depending on the wheel line. Considering that Enkei has manufacturing facilities in Thailand, and Konig’s Flow Formed wheels are made using the same technology, it wouldn’t surprise me if they were made in the same factory. But I have no actual proof of this, it’s just speculation.
Popular Konig Wheels
Let’s take a look at some of Konig’s most popular wheels.
Freeform
The Freeform is a wheel from Konig’s Flow Formed line-up and is a lightweight 10 spoke wheel that is suitable for both street and track use.
These wheels are designed to offer efficient brake cooling and caliper clearance to fit on big brake applications, and come in a wide range of sizes from as small as 15×7.5 up to 19×10.5, in both 4 and 5 hole PCDs.
They are offered in Radium Bronze and Matte Silver finishes and are perfect if you are looking for a lightweight wheel with a modern motorsport design.
GET KONIG FREEFORM WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Hypergram
The Hypergram is another popular wheel from the Flow Form line featuring a 10 spoke concave face and step lip design.
These wheels are very lightweight and durable making them great for track use, and come in a ton of different sizes from 15×7.5 all the way up to 19×11 as well as two different face profiles and practically all 4 and 5 hole PCDs.
Available in Race Bronze, Matte Grey, Metallic Carbon with Machined Lip and Matte Black finishes, these wheels were truly made to fit almost any car out there.
GET KONIG HYPERGRAM WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Countergram
Similar to the Hypergrams, the counter grams offer a huge range of finishes, sizes and PCDs, and feature a 9 spoke face with step lip and 2 different face profiles.
These wheels are available from 15×7.5 all the way up to 19×11 and practically all 4 and 5 hole PCDs. The optional face profiles make them suitable for big brake applications where clearance can be a problem.
They are available in two finishes – Matte Black Face with Matte Machined Lip and Hyper Chrome Face with Mirror Machined Lip.
Another great lightweight wheel option suitable for almost any car and great for track use.
GET KONIG COUNTERGRAM WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Rewind
The Rewinds are a cast wheel made by Konig that feature a classic style similar to that of Watanabes and Minilites.
These wheels offer a deep lip with low offsets and come in either graphite or silver faces.
Available in either 15×7 or 16×7 and 4×100 or 4×114.3 PCDs, these wheels are popular for cars like Datsun 240Zs, Toyota AE86s and BMW E30s, and these are actually a very popular wheel with the Nasa Spec-E30 class.
GET KONIG REWIND WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Dial-In
Konig’s strongest and lightest 15” wheel, the Dial-In are a true performance wheel perfect for those chasing lap times.
Weighing only 10-12 lb (4.5-5.4 kg), these wheels only come in 15” diameter and widths ranging from 7-9”, and are exclusively available in 4×100 PCD.
Perfect for cars like the BMW E30, early Volkswagen Golfs, Mazda Miatas and various Hondas such as the Civic and Integra, if you are planning to track your car and you want maximum performance, this is the wheel for you.
GET KONIG DIAL-IN WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Dekagram
Another lightweight flow formed wheel available in a huge range of sizes, the Dekagram features a 10 spoke concave face design and is made for both track and street use.
Available in sizes from 15×7.5 up to 19×10.5, these wheels come in 2 face profile options in order to fit big brake applications. They are available in practically all 4 and 5 hole PCDs and come in two finish options – Semi Matte Black and Gloss Bronze.
Another fantastic wheel choice if you need a lightweight wheel suitable for track use.
GET KONIG DEKAGRAM WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Oversteer
The Oversteer are from Konig’s Mainline wheels and feature a split 5 spoke design with a concave that gets more aggressive as the wheels get wider.
These wheels are come in 16 to 20” diameters and 7.5-9.5” widths, and are available in staggered options for those wanting to run wider wheels.
If you are looking for good looking wheels to add an aggressive look to your street car, these are a good option.
GET KONIG OVERSTEER WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Ampliform
The Ampliforms are from the Flow Formed line and feature a large mesh faced design suitable for modern cars with larger wheels.
They come in sizes from 17×8 to 20×11 and in either Gloss Bronze or Dark Metallic Graphite finishes. They are available in both 4 and 5 hold PCDs and come with 2 face profile options design to accommodate larger brakes or a more concave face.
Despite the larger sizes these wheels aren’t heavy, weighing from 17 to about 23 pounds (7-10 kg) making them a good option when performance is still a priority and you plan to hit the track.
GET KONIG AMPLIFORM WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
4×100 Konig Wheels
Konig makes a wide range of wheels in the 4×100 PCD. Here is a list of all their 4×100 wheels currently being produced:
Flow Formed
- Heliogram
- Countergram
- Hexaform
- Freeform
- Ampliform
- Dekagram
- Hypergram
- Dial-in
Mainline
- Lockout
- Runlite
- Control
- Crown
- Backbone
- Helium
- Lightning
- Illusion
- Lace
- Rewind
- Incident
GET 4X100 KONIG WHEELS HERE FOR THE BEST PRICE
17 Inch Konig Rims
Almost all of Konig’s wheels are available in 17” diameter except for a few models. Here is a list of all 17” Konig wheels currently available:
Flow Formed
- Heliogram
- Neoform
- Countergram
- Hexaform
- Freeform
- Ampliform
- Dekagram
- Rennform
- Hypergram
Mainline
- Diverge
- Lockout
- Tandem
- Myth
- Impression
- Intention
- Runlite
- Control
- Oversteer
- Crown
- Backbone
- Lightening
- Illusion
- Lace
- Incident
18 Inch Konig Rims
The vast majority of Konig’s wheels are available in 18” diameter. There are only a few models that aren’t. Here is a list of all 18” Konig wheels currently available:
Flow Formed
- Heliogram
- Neoform
- Countergram
- Hexaform
- Freeform
- Ampliform
- Dekagram
- Rennform
- Hypergram
Mainline
- Diverge
- Lockout
- Tandem
- Myth
- Impression
- Intention
- Runlite
- Control
- Oversteer
- SSM
- Crown
- Backbone
- Illusion
- Lace
Konig 5 Spoke Wheels
Konig make a number of 5 spoke or twin 5 spoke wheel designs. Here are the 5 spoke options currently available:
Flow Formed
- Heliogram
- Neoform
- Freeform
Mainline
- Myth
- Oversteer
- SSM
- Illusion
- Incident
Black Konig Wheels
Konig offer a number of wheels in black finishes. Here are the black wheel options currently available:
Flow Formed
- Countergram
- Hexaform
- Ampliform
- Dekagram
- Hypergram
- Dial-In
Mainline
- Diverge
- Lockout
- Myth
- Runlite
- Oversteer
- Backbone
- Helium
GET KONIG WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Discontinued Konig Wheels
Over the years, Konig has made many interesting and memorable wheel designs that have been discontinued. Here are a few notable mentions:
Afterburner
C-Sharp
Tweak’d
Unknown
Wideopen
Konig Vs Enkei Wheels
Because Konig and Enkei wheels are in a very similar price range and they both offer wheels made using the same flow forming technology, people often wonder which is better.
The truth is that there is little difference between Enkei wheels and Konig’s Flow Formed wheels.
They are both made using the same techniques and quite possibly at the same factory (but I can’t prove this) that it really only comes down to which design you like better, or which you can get for a better price at the time.
Both Konig Flow Formed and Enkei wheels are lightweight, very good quality and sell for a similar price. They are both good enough to be used on the track and street.
Warranty
Konig offers a 1 year warranty to the original purchaser which covers any manufacturing defects on the wheels. This is a good sign that they stand behind their products and will sort out any issues should they occur.
Conclusion – Should You Buy Konig Wheels?
Yes, especially Konig’s Flow Formed wheels. Konig have been in the game a long time and make good quality affordable wheels with a very wide range of sizes, fitments and designs.
As far as cast wheels go, their Mainline wheels are decent and are a good wheel choice if you just want wheels for your street car to make it look better.
However, their Flow Formed line is where Konig really shine, and these wheels are excellent quality lightweight wheels that are durable enough for track use and sold at a very low price.
The Konig Flow Formed wheels are some of the best value for money wheels on the market right now, and are great for people building a track car on a budget or who just want some good quality lightweight wheels.
I wouldn’t hesitate to put Konig Flow Formed wheels on my car and am happy to recommend them as a good affordable wheel option.
GET KONIG WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
FAQ About Konig Wheels
Are Konig Wheels Reps?
No, Konig wheels are not reps. While Konig has made many replica wheels over the years, they have since moved more into producing their own unique designs, which are now the vast majority of their line-up. Their wheels are also good quality, much better than the typical cheap rep wheel brand.
Are Konig Wheels Good?
Yes, Konig wheels are good. Their Mainline wheels are good quality for cast wheels, and their Flow Formed line are very good quality, lightweight wheels that are durable enough for regular track use.
Where Are Konig Wheels Made?
Konig wheels are made in either Taiwan or Thailand, depending on which Konig wheel line-up you buy.
Are Konig Wheels Made In China?
No, Konig wheels are not made in China. They are made in either Taiwan or Thailand.
Where Is Konig Wheels From?
Konig wheels was originally an American company, and has since been sold to YHI International which is a Singaporean based distributor.
Are Konig Wheels Forged?
No, there are currently no Konig forged wheels. However, Konig are preparing to released a Forged wheel line-up in 2023.
Are Konig Wheels Real?
Yes, Konig wheels are real. Konig has been around since the 1980s producing wheels, and they now produce almost all unique wheel designs.
Are Konig Wheels Fake?
No, Konig wheels are not fake. While Konig has produced some replica wheels, and they do make wheels that look like multi-piece wheels when they are not (“fake splits”), Konig wheels are good quality and the vast majority of them are unique wheel designs.
Are Konig Wheels JWL Certified?
No, Konig wheels are not JWL certified. However, Konig are ISO9001, TUV, VIA & TS16949 certified.
Can You Get Different Center Caps For Konig Wheels?
Yes, Konig sell replacement center caps for their wheels, and it is possible to buy different center caps for your Konig wheels as long as the size is correct.
Do I Need Aftermarket Lugs For Konig Wheels?
Yes, you will need lugs that have a conical seat. Konig recommends to use either spline drive, tuner diameter conical seat nuts or bolts. Some Konig wheels will take acorn nuts, but it’s best to get the proper lugs to avoid any issues.
Do Konig Wheels Come With Lug Nuts and Center Caps?
Konig wheels do come with center caps but not with lug nuts.
How Heavy Are Konig Ampliform Wheels?
Kong Ampliform wheels weight from 17-23 lbs (7.7-10.4 kg), depending on the size. The bigger the wheel, the more it will weigh.
How to Tell Konig Wheel Width?
To tell the width of your Konig wheels, look for a stamping on the back side of the wheel that says the wheel diameter and width. For example, 15×8, where 15 is the diameter in inches, and 8 is the width in inches. Often, the width will be followed by a J or JJ, for example 15x8J.
What Are Konig Wheels Made Of?
Konig Flow Formed wheels are made from A356.2 T6 aluminium, which is an aluminium commonly using for aircraft and aerospace parts due to its light weight and strength.
How to Pronounce Konig Wheels?
Konig in Konig wheels is pronounced “ko-nig”.
What Does Konig 4×100 4×108 Wheels Mean?
If a Konig is listed as 4×100 4×108, it means that the wheel has both PCDs, and you will see that the wheel has 8 holes to accommodate both PCD patterns. It will fit cars that have 4×100 and 4×108 PCDs.
What Lug Seat Are Konig Wheels?
All Konig wheels use conical seat lugs. You will need tuner style conical lugs for many of Konig’s wheels.
Why Are Konig Wheels Cheap?
Konig wheels are cheap partly because many of their wheels are cast, but also partly because Konig is owned by a big company that is able to produce wheels for cheap, so they can sell them at a cheaper rate. Konig wheels are still good quality wheels, despite the low price.
Will Konig Wheels Work With Stock Bolts?
Konig wheels will only work with stock bolts if your stock bolts are conical seat. If your stock bolts are ball seat, you will need to get the popper conical seat bolts.
Who Manufactures Konig?
YHI International owns and manufactures all Konig wheels.
Who Owns Konig Wheels?
YHI International owns Konig Wheels.
What is the lightest Konig wheel?
Konig’s lightest wheel is the Dial – In, which is produced in 15” diameters and only weighs 10-12.7 lb (4.5-5.7 kg), depending on the width.
GET KONIG WHEELS FOR THE BEST PRICE HERE
Cars owned: Mk2 Golf with 1.8T swap, BMW E28 with M30B35 swap, BMW E36 328I Mtech, BMW 750IL, Nissan 300ZX, Honda Civic EF
- BC Racing BR Series VS Tein Flex Z Coilovers - April 15, 2024
- The Pros and Cons of Shock Body Vs Spring Perch Coilover Height Adjustment - April 13, 2024
- Monotube Vs Twin Tube Shocks: The Ultimate Guide - April 11, 2024
