FAQ for RML Wheels (16" Teardrop and Bottlecap Edition)
Q: What is RML?
A: RML stands for Retro-Modern Line. It's our design philosophy that aims to take the best in automotive designs from the past and modernize them in regard to contemporary aesthetics, usability, and value.
Q: Why the VW Teardrop and BMW Bottlecap?
A: Simple; they're both iconic OEM designs.
The Teardrop resonates with anyone who remembers what a big deal it was for the US market to get the first 16-valve Scirocco and GTI. As part of the RML philosophy, we've taken the original 14x6 design, made the Teardrops directional (wheels are designated as left and right), and blown them up to 16x7 and 16x8 size options.
Q: Are you the same company that made the first series of RML Snowflakes?
A: Yes. RML is operated by the founder of fifteen52, who offered the first RML Snowflakes back in 2010.
Q: Are the new versions made the same way as the OE Teardrops and Bottlecaps?
A: No - they are better. Much better. This time around, we've incorporated a more modern casting technique called Flow-Forming (aka Rotary Forging). This provides for a lighter and stronger wheel. In addition to being lighter, stronger, bigger and wider, the newer versions have been engineered to provide maximum brake clearance. We've done all this while maintaining the original look of the original Teardrop and Bottlecap wheels.
For the Teardrop, we've also gone to the extra expense of creating two separate molds - one for the left side of the car, and one for the right side. In other words, the RML Teardrop is a truly directional design!
Q: What are the specs?
A: Teardrop:
- 16x7 ET35 dual-PCD of 4x100/108 57.1 CB
- 16x8 ET35 dual-PCD of 4x100/108 57.1 CB
- 16x8 ET35 dual-PCD of 5x100/112 57.1 CB
Bottlecap:
- 16x8 ET25 PCD of 4x100 57.1 CB
Q: Are these direct fit?
A: Yes! Each design uses OEM ball-seat lugs and a 57.1 center bore for perfect fitment.
Q: Do OE Teardrop caps fit?
A: No. As much as we'd have liked to provide this option, going from 14" to 16" and keeping the OE cap diameter would have hurt the overall proportion of the design. Also, it would be close to impossible to have the new wheels match the OE finish of the original center caps.
Q: How much do the wheels weigh?
A: The 16x7 RML Teardrop weighs approximately 17-lb (we’ll be able to confirm once we have a final production wheel to test). The 16x8 Bottlecap is expected to weigh approximately 15-lb.
16" TEARDROP AND BOTTLECAP PRE-ORDER FAQ
Q: Why should I pre-order?
A: Short answer: To receive a discount off MSRP, free shipping (US and Canada only) and make sure you'll get a set. Once the wheels arrive, the pre-order will end and the discount offer will end as well.
Longer answer: We will order a limited number of each wheel design for the entire world. We are not sure when (or even if) we will order more, but more than likely it would not be any time soon. The RML business model is designed not to sit on inventory, but to use our (very) limited capital to create new designs: in other words, our pre-orders could well be your only chance to purchase a set.
Q: Is there a shipping fee?
A: For US and Canadian pre-order customers, shipping is free, but once the wheels arrive this offer is void. For International orders, please see below.
Q: Do you accept international orders?
A: Yes. But keep in mind that due to fluctuating costs, your shipping fee cannot be calculated until the wheels arrive at our location. Also, you are independently responsible for any fees or duties assessed by your government.
Q: When are the wheels due to arrive at your location?
A: As of 10/15/2024 the 16" Teardrops and Bottlecaps are due to arrive by April of 2025 (delays are possible and we will make updates in the blog section of this website to the ETA as we go).
Q: Is my pre-order purchase refundable?
A: Yes, and at any time, and for any reason, up until the point the wheels arrive at our warehouse. However, because Shopify does *not* refund merchant fees on refunded orders, we are forced to add a 3.5% processing fee for any canceled/refunded orders.
Q: Will I receive updates on my order status/ETA for the wheels?