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 Motegi.
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 Motegi – Comparison Table
| BBS | Motegi | |
| Year founded | 1970 | 2000 |
| Country of origin | Germany | United States |
| Made in | Germany and Japan | China |
| Manufactured by | KW Automotive GmbH, Washibeam Co. Ltd | American Racing Wheel Company |
| Build quality | High | Very good |
History
Get ready to dive into the stories behind two wheel manufacturing companies – BBS and Motegi.
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.
Motegi Wheels History
Motegi wheels are manufactured by American Racing Wheel Co. – a manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket wheels sold via the retail sector.
American Racing creates these wheels, while the Motegi Racing line is owned by Wheel Pros – one of the biggest marketers and distributors of aftermarket wheels.
Motegi wheels are named after the Japanese Twin Ring Motegi racing track, designed by Honda. These wheels come in different sizes for all types of vehicles.
Initially, these high-end wheels were designed for racing cars. However, they also provide durable and strong rims for street use.
American Racing manufactures these wheels. This company has been in business since the 1950s.
They create high-performance wheels for all kinds of vehicles – especially sports cars.
Besides American Racing, Motegi wheels are also linked with Wheel Pros.
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)
Motegi Wheels Manufacturing Methods
In comparison, here are the different methods used by Motegi to make their wheels:
- Cast
- Rotary Forged (Flow Formed)
Wheel Series
BBS and Motegi 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)
Motegi Wheel Series
- Cast Series
- Traklite (Flow Formed) Series
Popular Models
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling models for BBS and Motegi.
BBS’s Renowned Models
- BBS RS
- BBS LM
- BBS E88
- BBS RK
Motegi’s Renowned Models
- Motegi Racing MR116
- Motegi Racing MR139
- Motegi Racing MR127
- Motegi Racing MR118
- Motegi Racing MR131 Traklite
Price
Alright, let’s dive into the exciting world of wheel prices! We’re talking about BBS and Motegi, 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.
Motegi Wheels Price
Motegi wheels are popular because of their high performance as well as budget-friendly price tags.
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 Motegi, 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
Motegi Wheels Warranty
- Limited warranty to cover defects in material and workmanship for 1 year
Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons that BBS and Motegi 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 |
Motegi Wheels Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔Very good quality cast wheels | ❌Heavy weight |
| ✔Quite affordable | |
| ✔JWL and VIA safety standards | |
| ✔Durable on the track and in hot conditions |
Final Verdict
The moment of truth has arrived. After exploring the ins and outs of BBS vs Motegi, it’s time to put the puzzle pieces together:
When it comes to choosing between BBS and Motegi wheel brands, both have their strengths and weaknesses.
BBS wheels undoubtedly stand out in terms of quality, boasting a high build standard that ensures durability and reliability. Additionally, BBS wheels offer enhanced aesthetics, better grip, and improved fuel efficiency due to their lightweight design.
However, these impressive features come at a steep price, with BBS wheels typically ranging from $300 to $1800 per wheel.
On the other hand, Motegi wheels shine in terms of affordability while still maintaining very good quality. They are known for their high performance and budget-friendly price tags, making them popular among enthusiasts.
Moreover, Motegi wheels meet JWL and VIA safety standards, ensuring their durability on the track and in hot conditions. The only drawback to Motegi wheels is their relatively heavier weight compared to BBS.
Ultimately, the choice between BBS and Motegi will depend on your priorities and budget. If money is not a primary concern and you prioritize top-notch quality, lightweight design, and improved fuel efficiency, BBS wheels are the way to go.
However, if you are seeking a balance between performance and affordability, Motegi wheels offer very good quality at a more accessible price point.
