Are they the best, yes. Do you need them? I have ridden for decades without beadlocks and never lost a bead, even when riding back with a flat. So for me no.

 

Agree, been riding raptors since my first 660 in 01. Never had a problem. Same as sandman rode 20 miles back to camp with a 1 inch slash in the side wall. Dirt or paddles same thing. They look nice might invest someday.

 

For trail riding they are good.
I never though they would be useful(other than high hp/spinning wheels inside tires), until 2 times I have had a stick jam between the wheel and tire on the front, both causing a substantial leak, and one requiring the bead popped off the wheel and reseated to fix.
I will be buying a set for my 700 when the stock tires wear out.
Do you Need them? No.
But they can earn their keep real quick too.