I'm about to replace my stock rims on my Sportsman 500 with C-Series Type 4 rims. The offset on the rear rims is 5 x 2 and the front is 4 x 3. Assuming the stock rims have no offset, this will make my rear tires stick out an extra 1 1/2 inches on each side (right?). I realize that in theory, this will make my machine more stable by giving it a wider stance, but a friend of mine is a big anti-offset believer. He thinks widening the stance of the tires will put more stress on the suspension and frame components of the machine. He likens it to carrying a book in each hand, either straight down at your side, vs having to hold them with your arms stretched out away from your body (ie with an offset). Any ideas on this theory or any other pros/cons to offset rims?

 

I have ITP 12X7" rims (an older version of the C series) on the Ranchers. I love it! It makes the machine just enough wider (about 3") that it is considerably more stable. No noticeable bump steer, or anything like that. No problems with "stress" in 5 years of riding (but I can't speak for your particular machine).

The ITP rims and Holeshot ATR tires were the best mods I made to my machines!