Rev up your curiosity as we introduce you to a wheel showdown like no other.
We’re kicking off with a comprehensive wheel brand comparison of BBS vs HRE.
Discover their origins, manufacturing secrets, and what sets them apart in terms of quality, pricing, and warranties.
We’ll analyze the pros and cons, ultimately answering the question: Who takes the wheel throne?
Stick around – it’s time to find out!
BBS vs HRE – Comparison Table
| BBS | HRE | |
| Year founded | 1970 | 1978 |
| Country of origin | Germany | United States |
| Made in | Germany and Japan | United States, Japan and Taiwan |
| Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | HRE |
| Build quality | High | High |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and HRE.
These brands didn’t just appear out of thin air; they’ve got histories filled with interesting twists and turns.
We’ll walk you through their journeys, from their early days to where they stand today.
BBS Wheels History
BBS is a leader in the automotive industry and is one of the world’s best manufacturers of OEM, racing, and aftermarket wheels.
It supplies the highest quality forged wheels to giant automotive companies like BMW.
Heinrich Baumgartner and Klaus Brand founded this company in 1970 as they were desperate to find a way to increase the performance of their cars on the racetrack.
Their development of the three-piece racing wheel grabbed the racing world’s attention and started going up the ladder from that period.
The warehouse in Georgia was established in 1983 and has been selling and supplying aftermarket wheels and other products.
BBS provides services to almost every major racing event too.
The three other facilities are located in Germany and Japan.
One of the warehouses in Germany takes care of the original equipment products and aftermarket wheels, whereas the other one is responsible for all racing and top-quality forged wheels.
The facility in Japan is where the infamous RS wheel was manufactured. This wheel’s design propelled them into having such a huge success.
In March 2021, BBS was acquired by KW automotive GmbH.
HRE Wheels History
HRE Wheels is a manufacturer of high-performance forged wheels that has been in operation since 1978. Here is a detailed history of HRE Wheels:
- 1978: HRE Wheels is founded by Gene Howell.
- 1993: HRE is sold to new owners.
- 1999: Alan Pertier, a mechanical engineer working for Northrop Grumman, steps up as the leader engineer for HRE.
- 2009: Alan becomes the president and CEO of the company. He is still in this position to this day.
- 2012: HRE Wheels introduces the Vintage Series, which features classic designs inspired by vintage wheels.
- 2014: HRE Wheels introduces the Classic Series, which features timeless designs inspired by vintage wheels.
HRE Wheels has been a leader in the three-piece motorsports and street performance wheel market for over three decades.
Manufacturing Techniques
Wheel manufacturing is an art that employs three primary methods: casting, flow-forming, and forging.
Casting involves molten metal being poured into a mold, allowing intricate designs but with moderate strength.
Flow-forming merges casting and forging, spinning the wheel under high pressure to enhance strength without compromising weight.
Forging, the most robust method, employs extreme pressure to shape solid metal, producing lightweight and incredibly durable wheels.
BBS Wheels Manufacturing Methods
The manufacturing methods used by BBS are the following:
- Low Pressure Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
- Die Forged
- Magnesium Wheels (BBS Racing Wheels)
HRE Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by HRE to make their wheels:
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
- Forged
Wheel Series
BBS and HRE have a number of series available. Below you’ll find information about their current line-up.
BBS Wheel Series
- Design Line (Cast)
- Performance (Flow Formed)
- Forged (Die forged)
HRE Wheel Series
- FlowForm
- Forged Monoblocks
- Forged 2 Piece FMR
- Forged 3 Piece
- CRBN
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and HRE.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
HRE’s Renowned Models
- HRE FF04
- HRE R101
- HRE P101
- HRE FF10
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and HRE, the masterminds behind those round wonders.
It’s like a treasure hunt – each brand has its own stash of price tags, ranging from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy.
BBS Wheels Price
BBS wheels will cost you a lot more than other aftermarket wheels competitors. Their average price is usually between $300 and $1800 per wheel, depending on your choice of rims.
HRE Wheels Price
HRE Wheels are generally considered much more pricier than many other aftermarket wheels, but the price range varies depending on the specific model, size, and finish. Here are some examples of HRE wheel prices:
HRE R101 Wheels: Starting at $1,900 per wheel
HRE P101 Forged Monoblock Wheels: Starting at $2,650 each
HRE FF01 Flow Form Wheels: Set of 4 priced at $2,400
HRE Classic Series 301M: Custom pricing starting at $1,400
Warranty
When it comes to peace of mind, warranties play a vital role in the wheel-buying journey.
Let’s delve into the warranty offerings of BBS and HRE, unlocking the promises they extend to keep your wheels spinning smoothly.
BBS Wheels Warranty
- Structural warranty for manufacturing defects for 10 years
- Wheel finish warranty for painted wheels for 2 years
- Wheel finish warranty for polished wheels for 2 years
HRE Wheels Warranty
- Limited lifetime warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship
- Limited Wheel finish warranty for 2 years
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that BBS and HRE bring to the wheel table.
In this section, we’ll take a close look at what each brand brings to the road – the advantages that make them shine, and the drawbacks to consider. Get ready for the full scoop!
BBS Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔High build quality | ❌They cost a lot |
| ✔Durable and reliable | |
| ✔Enhanced looks | |
| ✔Better grip and Improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight |
HRE Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔High build quality | ❌Expensive |
| ✔Customization options | |
| ✔Lightweight | |
| ✔Wide range of sizes and fitments |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs HRE, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
After considering the data and facts, it is clear that both BBS and HRE are top-notch wheel brands with high-quality products.
BBS wheels are known for their exceptional build quality, durability, and reliability. They not only enhance the overall appearance of a vehicle but also offer better grip and improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight design.
However, it should be noted that BBS wheels come with a hefty price tag, ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel, making them quite expensive compared to other aftermarket wheel competitors.
Similarly, HRE wheels also excel in terms of build quality and offer customization options, allowing customers to personalize their wheels according to their preferences. They are lightweight and come in a wide range of sizes and fitments, catering to different vehicle models.
However, like BBS, HRE wheels are considered to be on the expensive side. Prices for HRE wheels vary depending on the specific model, size, and finish, starting at $1,400 and going up to $2,650 per wheel.
In conclusion, both BBS and HRE offer exceptional wheel options with high build quality. BBS wheels are known for their durability, reliability, and improved fuel efficiency, while HRE wheels provide customization options and a wide range of sizes.
However, it is important to consider that both brands come with a significant price premium. Therefore, the choice between BBS and HRE ultimately depends on individual preferences, budget, and the importance placed on customization options.
