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 Japan Racing.
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 Japan Racing – Comparison Table
| BBS | Japan Racing | |
| Year founded | 1970 | 2010s |
| Country of origin | Germany | Poland |
| Made in | Germany and Japan | Taiwan, China and Thailand |
| Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | Japan Racing |
| Build quality | High | Good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and Japan Racing.
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.
Japan Racing Wheels History
Japan Racing Wheels is a leading aftermarket alloy wheels manufacturer that offers good-quality wheels at affordable prices.
The Polish brand incorporates Japanese style with classic European looks to elevate your car’s aesthetics without compromising performance.
You can get alloy wheels in multiple sizes with more than 400 different options. The wide range of width sizes spanning 6.5 to 11 inches also helps your cause, allowing you to find the right match for your automobile.
Additionally, the color schemes offered by the manufacturer ensure that you will have all the finishes to match your personality.
One of the most significant advantages of choosing JR wheels over other aftermarket solutions is their exceptional craftsmanship.
Japan racing wheels have TÜV certification, ensuring their compliance with all necessary safety regulations and quality standards.
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)
Japan Racing Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by Japan Racing to make their wheels:
- Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
Wheel Series
BBS and Japan Racing 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)
Japan Racing Wheel Series
- Super Light Series
- Tuner Series
- Jr-X Series
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and Japan Racing.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
Japan Racing’s Renowned Models
- Japan Racing JR11
- Japan Racing SL01
- Japan Racing JR3
- Japan Racing JR20
- Japan Racing JR21
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and Japan Racing, 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.
Japan Racing Wheels Price
Japan Racing wheels are generally considered affordable and offer good value for money.
The cost of Japan Racing wheels varies depending on the specific model and size, but on average, they cost between 120 to 350 euros per wheel.
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 Japan Racing, 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
Japan Racing Wheels Warranty
- Limited warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship for 2 years
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that BBS and Japan Racing 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 |
Japan Racing Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Affordable | ❌Fairly heavy, finish is average quality and they appear to be replicas |
| ✔Wide range of sizes and fitments | |
| ✔Customization options | |
| ✔Stylish designs |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs Japan Racing, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
In the battle between BBS and Japan Racing, BBS emerges as the clear winner when it comes to quality.
With their high build quality, BBS wheels offer durability and reliability that is hard to match. Moreover, their lightweight design not only enhances the overall look of your vehicle but also improves grip and fuel efficiency.
However, these advantages come at a steep price. BBS wheels are considerably more expensive than their competitors, ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel.
On the other hand, Japan Racing wheels provide a good quality product at an affordable price, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. With a wide range of sizes and fitments available, customization options are abundant, allowing you to find the perfect wheel for your vehicle.
Additionally, Japan Racing offers stylish designs that can enhance the appearance of your car. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Japan Racing wheels tend to be fairly heavy, which may impact overall performance.
Additionally, their finish quality is average, and there are concerns about them being replicas.
Ultimately, if you prioritize top-notch quality and are willing to invest in your wheels, BBS is the brand to choose.
However, for those seeking affordability without compromising on style, Japan Racing provides a compelling option with its range of sizes, fitments, and customization possibilities.
