HISTORY OF LM
Endurance racing is a proving ground for wheel technology, testing it to the limits. The LM is a forged aluminum 2-piece wheel named after Le Mans, one of the most prestigious endurance races. Here, we highlight the lineage of the LM.
- 1983
- BBS of Germany had been looking for a partner to manufacture forged wheels. It entered into a technical partnership with Japanese textile machinery manufacturer Washi Beam Co., Ltd. Then, BBS Japan was established.
- 1984
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BBS Japan launched the 3-piece forged aluminum wheel “RS”. The name “RS” recalls the evocative German term, “Rennsport,” or “racing sport,” which Porsche and BMW fans may know well.
BBS cross-spoke wheels supported the feet of Group C sports cars of Porsche that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1980s. This racetrack experience was feedback into the development of new production wheels.
- 1991
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The “RS” was a 3-piece wheel, but the “RS-II”, which was developed as a two-piece forged aluminum wheel by combining a one-piece rim with an inner and outer rim and a brake disc, was released in 1991. In parallel, the “RS-II Open” was also released at the same time, with a sportier design that eliminated the center cover.
- 1994
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The cross-spoke wheel, which has been continuously developed based on technology gained from Le Mans, has finally been brought to the market. Named "LM" after Le Mans, the wheel became a big hit soon after its launch thanks to its timeless design and functional beauty backed by genuine forging technology.
BBS did its utmost to incorporate the latest technology from the racing world, coming out with a “genuine” design with no vanity. This concept was captured by the catchphrase, “Real Racing Style.” The LM quickly became a BBS flagship product, and it has now been a favorite of enthusiasts of authentic design for over 30 years.
