[jas1598]

I'm really torn between the BBS CH-R and CI-R. I just purchased a black M235i and have been obsessing over finding the best aftermarket wheels that match the styling of the car. I decided to go BBS because I love the quality for the price over brands like VMR or OZ.

Both the CH-R and CI-R seem to be popular for the 2 series, but I can't decide which wheel suits the car best. I'm sure this is an incredibly subjective topic and I could probably go either way and be happy, but it's hard to make up my mind without seeing these wheels in person. Wondering what the majority of people think would look best on a black M235: CH-R or CI-R?

Here are some of the best pics I could find:

[Saab Story]

The last car looks incredible lol.

You can't go wrong either way, but I prefer the CIRs because they have a more modern look.

I recently sold my blue 235i & picked up a white 240i. I have been really happy with the CIRs so they will be going straight onto this car after winter.

[aozer]

CH-R, it is a classic design that will never go out of style

[dradernh]

I would choose the design that takes less time to clean.

[LCONE]

My vote is CI-R. The CH-R's are classic but in my opinion don't fit the updated style of the M235i. I actually thought about this long and hard. I passed on a $900 set of CH-R for that very reason. Just felt it didn't fit the look right on my Alpine White M235i.

[Denk]

Tough decision deciding on these wheels. Do you prefer a classic mesh design or something more modern looking? Both look good on the car and are super quality. I personally love the mesh design wheels on BMW's, it's been my favorite on M cars for a long time. I'm in Tigard if you want to see them in person. The YouTube link has a couple of nice vids showing a German dudes CHR's on a black 2'er, I do love the finish of both the BBS's, very sporty. Either way, you can't go wrong.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaA...ynT4UZELdzwrLQ

[Clay240]

I love both, I actually tried to change my order from chr to cir but it was too late. However I have been really happy the Ch-rs look amazing.

Forgot to mention I'm on Dinan springs, an absolute must with the 19" wheels.

[Hasser]

Here's mine.

[jas1598]

It is such a hard decision. Thank you Clay240 for finally providing me with a picture of a black M235 on CH-Rs! Do you run 255s on the rear wheels? I've heard from Denk that this combo results in about 4mm of tire poke outside the fender. I'm thinking about going with 245s on CH-Rs because I worry the poke will look awkward.

Apparently, running 255s on CI-R results in a perfectly flush tire, but the offsets on the CH-Rs are different, causing the poke.

[x233]

CH-R because...

1. it's a matter of taste.
2. CH-R is available in 18 and 19 diameter, CI-R only in 19 in. this could be a differentiating factor.
3. CH-R comes with more appropriate offsets (40 front and 44 rear) as opposed to CH-R that's 45 and 48.
3. go with silver or titanium.
4. 255 wide tire (Michelins, Pirellies) does not really poke in the rear with et44 (unless it's a fat extreme performance or track tire like AD08 and such), just about right.

[x233]

CH-R 8x18 et40 + 3 mm spacer front, 9x18 et44 rear. front camber -1, rear -1.55.
tires: pirelli p zero 225/40/18 + 255/35/18.



ps: both silver and titanium look better but I don't have pictures of those.

[230iZTR]

I’d prefer the CH-R due to an 18” diameter and better offset options.

That said, to me at least, it would be worth waiting and saving a bit more to get a die-forged BBS wheel like the RG-R or RF. The strength and weight benefits of going with a forged wheel are astounding.

[jas1598]

I was planning on going with 19" diameter because I think the larger wheel will look better. I know they will weigh more than 18" and tires will be more expensive. Is there any other reason to go 18" instead of 19"?

[aerobod]

Originally Posted by jas1598

I was planning on going with 19" diameter because I think the larger wheel will look better. I know they will weigh more than 18" and tires will be more expensive. Is there any other reason to go 18" instead of 19"?

Overall better performance (ride, at the limit handling, grip in bumpy corners in particular). The standard rule is fit brakes no larger than is needed to prevent fade under severe use, then fit the smallest diameter wheels with the widest tread that will fit over the brakes and under the bodywork.

[dradernh]

Originally Posted by aerobod

Overall better performance (ride, at the limit handling, grip in bumpy corners in particular). The standard rule is fit brakes no larger than is needed to prevent fade under severe use, then fit the smallest diameter wheels with the widest tread that will fit over the brakes and under the bodywork.

Excellent summary. This is information that performance-oriented drivers need to understand.