Starting with the "lip-lace" or "bead-lace" style, this type of wheel features spokes that are installed very close to the front edge of the wire wheel. These wheels are typically used on classic Thunderbirds and other automobiles where a high backspace or positive off-set is required to either properly fit a wheel well or clear certain disc brakes. Lip-lace wire wheels require the use of inner-tubes. This is due to the manner of their construction.
The standard style of wire wheel finds the hub section of the wheel installed near the middle of the outer rim. There is generally equal distance or nearly equal spacing of the hub, between the front edge of the wheel and the back edge of the wheel. The standard style is the most common style and fits most automobiles. Inner-tubes are normally not necessary with the standard style of wheel unless the tires selected require them.
The reverse style of wheel features the hub section of the wheel installed as close to the back edge of the wheel as possible. By doing this, a "deep-dish" look is presented. Although the reverse style of wheel is quite attractive, it is the most difficult to fit onto a car without sufficient space in the wheel wells. Further, large drum brakes or disc brakes may not fit inside the wheel as they would with a standard pattern wire wheel. Inner-tubes are normally not necessary with style of wheel unless the tires selected require them. It is more difficult to fit a reverse style wheel onto a car that is equipped with fender skirts.