Enkei, a trusted name in the automotive wheel industry, has a reputation for making some of the most popular aftermarket wheels in the industry. Wheels such as the Iconic RPF1, the NT03 +M, and the T6R. While these wheels typically share the limelight among enthusiasts, there are many other wheels in the Enkei lineup that often get overlooked. The Enkei Raijin is one of them. With its own unique specifications and similar engineering properties as the RPF1, the Raijin is one of the underrated wheels from Enkei that deserves a closer look.
The Enkei Raijin is a split 7-spoke mesh design wheel that was released into the market in 2012. As an addition to Enkei Wheels’ Tuning Series of wheels, the Raijin is made using the same manufacturing process as the RPF1 and meets the same JWL and VIA certifications.
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Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
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Price |
Competitively priced in the aftermarket wheels category $1,036/set – $1,436/set |
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Manufacture Method |
MAT Technology, Flow Formed |
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Applications |
Daily driver to high-performance track day use |
Oh boy here we go. Whenever it comes to aftermarket wheels nowadays there is always one question that needs to be answered. “Is this wheel a rep?” While its often completely misunderstood, it is a good thing to know when you are picking out your new set of wheels. So is the Enkei Raijin a rep? Well, according to our very own wheel verifier tool, the Enkei Raijin is considered to be a Replica Design. What? A Japanese made wheel labeled as a rep? Blasphemy! Well, it actually happens a lot more than you think. And that’s okay! We label a wheel as a replica design wheel if it shares greater than 80% of its key features with an existing wheel design that has been utilized in motorsport and is still in production. We have identified the Enkei Raijin to share more than 80% of its key features with the BBS CH-R which was release a few years before the Raijin. But just because the design may considered a replica, doesn’t mean you should completely disregard other properties. Like how the wheels are actually made.
Engineered with Flow Formed MAT Technology, the Enkei Raijin offers a fantastic balance of style and performance while keeping a budget in mind. This technology reduces unsprung weight, which essentially means your car can handle better and accelerate quicker.
This manufacturing process allows the Enkei Raijin to come in as much as 4lbs less per wheel compared to your standard pressure cast or gravity cast stock wheels, significantly aiding in reducing that all-important unsprung weight. Plus, the enhanced durability means they’re built to withstand the abuse of both everyday commuting and track conditions.
Enkei Raijin wheels have cemented their place in the automotive aftermarket primarily due to their versatile fit and aesthetic appeal. Below are some of the top car models that enthusiasts commonly outfit with the Raijin:
Honda Civic and Accord: Honda owners frequently choose Enkei Raijins for their vehicles. The wheels’ sporty mesh design complements the Civic’s and Accord’s profiles.
Subaru Impreza and WRX: For Subaru drivers looking to save on unsprung weight and improve performance, the light weight of the Raijin wheels—thanks to Enkei’s MAT Technology—is a huge draw.
Ford Mustang: Ford enthusiasts often replace stock wheels with Raijins for a blend of durability and stylish design.
Toyota Corolla and Camry: These everyday drivers can benefit from the Raijin’s sleek look, making them a top choice for Toyota owners.
Volkswagen Golf and Jetta: VW owners appreciate the addition of the 5×112 bolt pattern and euro mesh look and feel the Raijin wheels deliver.
When it comes to aftermarket wheels, the Enkei Raijin is a contender worthy of serious consideration for both track day enthusiasts and everyday drivers. These wheels are more than just an appearance upgrade with their mesh style design; they offer a significant upgrade in terms of performance and reliability.
We hear all the time that people really like everything about the RPF1 besides the design and the fact that everyone runs them and they are “overplayed”. Which makes the Raijin an even better alternative for someone who is looking for exactly that. Make sure to check out the Enkei Raijin and available size options right here at MartiniWorks!
Alex Gelina "Also Known as Gels"
