There's a number of 7" wide wheels on the market, 7" being the thinest option they do - such as the 17" Rader and 17" Fuch. I'm guessing these would be too wide to fit beetles? If there is anyone out there who has explored wheel widths I'd appreciate your feedback, I dont wanna order these only to find out I cant go round corners! ;-)

It isnt the width but rather the offset that is the determining factor

Use this to help yourself

http://www.1010tires.com/WheelOffsetCalculator.asp 

I am running 6" on a strut front end but know heaps that are running 7" even 8" under stock guards

Thanks for this, I'm still not totally sure I understand it enough to get it right! Do you think these are workable?

http://www.midlandwheels.com/Shop/P-193-7-x-17-Fuch-Black/Machined-Face--5x13...

I doubt they will go on your front without some narrowing of the beam

As stated - all my experience is with struts