Chris from Wheel Smith has purchased American Rebel Wheels and is on track to grow the company. I talked to him in Louisville and he has a high enthusiasm level and is excited about the future of his wheel business. It good that he stepped in the keep the brand going.
I briefly talked with a fella at their booth at the Des Moines Goodguys. He said he was the owner (I didn't realize he was a brand new owner), and he said they were going to expand the sizes available. But they would still be making all the favorites we currently like.
Hopefully they will continue to be USA made, same great quality. We bought a set in the spring and are very happy with them.
Interesting. I did not realize American Rebel was in dire straits. I believe that AR had their own foundry and also did wheels for Radir.(??) I have AR wheels on my Cyclone, I have nothing but good to say about the quality and the look.
I'm a huge fan as their stuff is made in the USA, hopefully it stays that way. As a guy who sold a company not long ago, I can say that because you sold the company does not mean it was in poor financial health, most companies only sell if they are profitable. Just to keep it on topic, here is a shot of the Rebels on my old '33, -Abone.
I don't think American Rebel was in any trouble, I was told several months ago the then owner was wanting to quit which created an opportunity for Chris from Wheel Smith.
Very true. Glad to hear they are healthy and in good hands. Unfortunately, it seems many small companies didn't make it through the Covid crap (and the lack of foundries in the USA) to thrive again.
The company should be in good hands at any rate. It seems that a good number of folks who started Automotive aftermarket companies back 20/30 are ready to retire and some are just ready to move on to somethign else. From the American Rebel website it looks like the previous owner may have interests beyond making wheels that is taking up a lot of time.
That's good to hear! I was eventually planning on getting their Sprint wheels for my 39 Ford Deluxe. And they had them in 5.5 bolt pattern, which is what I have.
Chris bought everything, lock, stock, and barrel. The previous owner poured the wheels right at his place in Anaheim Ca. Chris is going to make them the same way at his place in Az. Made in the U.S.A.
Good to hear. They were super to work with. A called and told them exactly what I wanted and they made them up for me super quick.
I've been thinking about a set for the front of my coupe made to match the rears. I should look at the specs on their front-runners.
Chris and his son are in business together. I got the feeling he was going to get this up and running well and that his son would eventually take over. So, there is already a succession plan. Good news, IMO.
This is great news!! I want a set for my coupe as soon as my wife comes up with the MONEY!!............
Thanks for this information. I bought a set a while back and love them. I am counting on them being around as I plan on buying more.
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