BBS RS wheel
The BBS RS wheel is more than just an alloy rim; it’s an automotive icon, a legendary symbol of performance, design, and motorsport heritage. For car enthusiasts, the sight of a BBS RS wheel evokes a sense of timeless style and serious tuning potential.
What Are BBS RS Wheels?
At its core, the BBS RS is a multi-piece (specifically, three-piece) modular wheel renowned for its distinctive mesh design and exposed assembly bolts. Manufactured by the German company BBS GmbH, which has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality racing and aftermarket wheels, the RS series became incredibly popular from the 1980s through the 2000s and continues to be highly sought after today.
Each BBS RS wheel is typically constructed from:
- A cast or forged center section (face), often with the signature mesh pattern.
- An inner barrel.
- An outer lip.
These three components are bolted together, allowing for a high degree of customization in terms of width, offset, and finish. This modular design also lends itself well to restoration, as individual components can be replaced or refinished. The construction contributes to their strength, relative lightness for their era, and their highly coveted aesthetic.
Are BBS RS Wheels OEM?
This is a common question, and the answer is largely no, not typically.
While BBS has a long history of supplying wheels to various car manufacturers as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) suppliers (for example, many BMWs, Porsches, and Audis have come from the factory with BBS-made wheels – like the BBS RC or RK series), the BBS RS series was predominantly an aftermarket wheel.
This means that owners of cars like classic BMW E30s, VW Golfs, Porsche 911s, or even Japanese sports cars, would purchase BBS RS wheels after buying their car to enhance its performance, aesthetics, or both. They were not usually specified as an option directly from the car manufacturer for a new vehicle.
However, the line can sometimes blur, as some special edition or dealer-installed options might have featured BBS wheels, but the RS specifically gained its fame and widespread use through the aftermarket tuning scene.
Why Are BBS RS Wheels Still So Popular?
Their enduring appeal stems from several factors:
- Timeless Design: The mesh pattern is instantly recognizable and complements a vast range of classic and modern vehicles.
- Customization: The multi-piece design allows for bespoke finishes, lip sizes, and barrel configurations.
- Motorsport Heritage: BBS’s legacy in racing lends an air of performance and credibility to all its products.
- Quality Construction: Built with precision German engineering, these wheels are known for their durability and strength.
- Rarity & Collectibility: Authentic BBS RS wheels, especially in good condition or specific sizes, are becoming harder to find, increasing their value and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the BBS RS wheel stands as a testament to iconic automotive design and engineering. While not typically an OEM part, its status as a premier aftermarket wheel has cemented its place in automotive history, making it a dream acquisition for countless car builders and collectors worldwide.
