Words: Patric Fransko
When it came time to upgrade the wheels on our Mercedes Sprinter build, we wanted something that not only looked great but also offered a functional upgrade. As this is a fully built-out 2023 Sprinter 170, we wanted something that also had more than enough load capacity. Finally, We sought wheels built specifically for the Sprinter application and offered something unique. (We’ll get into that later in the article.) We ended up going with a set of Owl Vans Talon Wheels.
The Owl Vans Story
We were impressed with the company and wanted to share their philosophy. If you are unfamiliar with Owl Vans, here’s a brief introduction about why they created the Talon Wheel.
From their website:
“Here at Owl, if we are not happy with the performance of something, we build it ourselves. With the new Owl Talon Wheel, we wanted to create something that raised the performance of the Sprinter wheel beyond what is available today. For the major wheel manufacturers, the Sprinter market is an afterthought. That means they don’t make wheels specifically designed for a Sprinter, they re-machine wheel blanks from a different vehicle and make them “fit” the Sprinter. This means the wheel typically isn’t optimized for the proper load capacity or offset.“
Some Information about the Owl Vans Talon Wheel
Exceptional Load Capacity
One of the standout features of the Talon wheel is its remarkable load capacity. Explicitly designed to handle the weight and stress of large Sprinter vans—often reaching up to 10,000 pounds—this wheel excels where others might falter. With its robust 4,200-pound load rating, the Owl Talon is the pinnacle of strength in this lineup.
For comparison, other wheels like BR Barstow and BR Arsenal offer load ratings of 2,700 and 2,600 pounds, respectively, while the Method 701 supports 3,600 pounds. The TALON’s superior load-bearing capability is a testament to its rugged construction and suitability for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Optimized Offset for Stability
Offset is critical in wheel performance, especially for off-road vehicles like the Sprinter van. The offset determines how far the wheel protrudes from the vehicle’s hub, influencing the van’s track width and stability. A lower offset results in a wider track, which enhances stability and reduces the risk of tipping, particularly on uneven terrain.
The Talon wheel offers an offset of 30mm, providing a wider track and a lower center of gravity compared to other models, such as BR Barstow and BR Arsenal, with a 38mm offset and the Method 701’s 50mm offset. This design makes the TALON wheel an excellent option for adventurous drivers seeking improved handling and safety on rugged trails.
Design and Specifications
The Owl Vans Talon Wheel is designed to be both functional and aesthetically appealing. It fits Sprinter 2500 models from 2007 to present, including popular variations like the Revel, Storyteller, Tranquility, and Cahaba. Each wheel is available in three striking colors—Satin Black, Graphite Grey, and Bronze—featuring a sleek, rugged design. The wheel’s size is 17”x8”, with a bolt pattern of 6x130mm and a cone lug bolt seat style. Made from lightweight yet durable aluminum, the wheel also includes a bead retention ring for enhanced tire performance.
Innovative Dual Valve Stem System
Its dual valve stem system is one of this wheel’s most innovative features. This design allows users to simultaneously run the factory TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) and an Apex quick air dump valve. The dual-valve setup simplifies adjusting tire pressure, crucial for optimizing traction on different terrains. While the Apex valves are not included with the wheels, they can be purchased separately, offering additional convenience for serious off-roaders.
The Talon wheel is an exceptional choice for Sprinter van owners looking for strength, stability, and innovative features. Its impressive load capacity, optimized offset, and advanced dual valve stem system make it a top contender for those ready to take their van adventures to the next level.
MSRP: Starting at $349.00 each
