Ray’s Gram Lights Wheels: The Japanese Lightweight Favorite for S2000 Owners

Ray’s Gram Lights: The Iconic Lightweight Wheel Brand Taking Over the S2000 Community

Ray’s Gram Lights have become synonymous with serious S2K builds, and for good reason. These Japanese-engineered wheels combine form and function in a way that resonates with Honda enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re a track day regular or a street modifier, understanding what makes Gram Lights special can help you make an informed choice for your next upgrade.

What Are Ray’s Gram Lights?

Ray’s Engineering Co., Ltd. is a legendary Japanese wheel manufacturer known for producing some of the lightest and most meticulously engineered wheels in the automotive world. The Gram Lights line represents their commitment to combining minimal weight with maximum visual impact. The name “Gram Lights” itself speaks to the brand’s obsession with reducing every possible gram of material while maintaining structural integrity.

The 57Xtreme: The Latest Standard-Bearer

The 57Xtreme stands as one of Ray’s most concave designs to date, featuring a striking split six-spoke design that commands attention from any angle. Available in sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches, the 57Xtreme is offered in multiple finishes including Matt Graphite, Semi Gloss Black, Winning Blue, and Sunlight Silver.

The 57Xtreme comes in different specifications, each tailored to different priorities:

• Spec D: Features increased rim thickness, shot peening of the wheel body, and a redesigned center area optimized for weight savings and durability. This version is ideal if you want maximum strength for daily driving and varied road conditions.
• SP Spec: Incorporates Ray’s signature side-cut technology, allowing dramatic weight reductions without sacrificing strength. The unique bridge design on each spoke maintains structural integrity while shedding grams.

Why S2000 Owners Love Gram Lights

The Honda S2000 community has embraced Ray’s Gram Lights as the wheel of choice for several reasons. First, the S2000 is a lightweight, rev-happy machine that responds beautifully to reduced unsprung weight. A lighter wheel means quicker acceleration, easier braking, and more responsive handling. The aggressive aesthetics of Gram Lights also complement the S2000’s already purposeful design language.

Common S2000 fitment specs include 17×9 +40 and 18×8.5 +52 / 18×7.5 +50 combinations, which deliver the perfect balance between the concave look and practical tire sidewall for street driving. Many enthusiasts choose to run a wider diameter on the rear for a subtle stance without requiring suspension modifications.

Fitment and Installation Considerations

Before purchasing, verify your exact fitment specifications. Ray’s wheels are offered in numerous combinations of diameter, width, and offset to accommodate different vehicle platforms. For S2000 owners, most popular choices clear stock brake calipers without modification, though checking your specific build is essential.

Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills, though many prefer having a professional shop handle the work to ensure proper balancing and torque specifications. Using quality wheel spacers or extended studs may be necessary depending on your offset choice and brake setup.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Ray’s Gram Lights are built to last, but they deserve proper care. Regular cleaning with mild soap and soft brushes preserves the finish, while avoiding harsh brake dust cleaners keeps the coating intact. If you’re running these year-round, store them in a dry location during off-season months to minimize oxidation. The Spec D’s shot-peened surface is particularly resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for drivers in harsh climates.

The Investment Perspective

Ray’s wheels represent a premium purchase, but they hold their value well within the enthusiast community. Unlike many wheel brands that trend in and out of fashion, Gram Lights have maintained consistent desirability for over a decade. They’re often viewed as an investment in both performance and resale value.

Final Thoughts

Ray’s Gram Lights have earned their reputation through meticulous engineering, stunning design, and real-world performance benefits. Whether you’re drawn to them for their lightweight properties, their iconic split-spoke aesthetics, or their proven track record in the S2K community, these wheels deliver on their promises. If you’re considering a set, take time to research the specific model and specification that best suits your driving style and vehicle setup. Your build—and your suspension—will thank you.