As BMW advances further into the demographic of the ATV crossover market, gains in popularity of aftermarket accessories are geared toward the adventurous lifestyle of the new BMW consumer. Swing-away, hitch mounted ski and snowboard carriers, mud guards and all weather cargo liners lead the pack in aftermarket accessory purchases for the E53 and E70 models. As the marketing team at BMW correctly assumed, there is a growing class of drivers that want and can afford the styling and quality of a BMW, but have a lifestyle that facilitates the need for flexibility in auto usage. The current consumer is not just driving to the country club.
The current consumer is also not necessarily satisfied to accept the original equipment manufacturer's systems when there are aftermarket upgrade systems available which can dramatically improve on performance. The aftermarket performance systems are gaining in popularity as many aftermarket companies are concentrating on providing equal quality in craftsmanship and engineering as the original manufacturers parts by taking the time to identify and improve on the performance systems so they are better than the originals.
Upgrading to a BMW Performance air intake system will improve the efficiency of your engine by reducing pressure drop, and resulting in an increase in horsepower and torque. Adding to the performance enhancements of the upgraded air intake system, the BMW Performance exhaust system will increase engine RPM and output by allowing engine by-products to exit the vehicle more efficiently. An added bonus to the upgraded aftermarket exhaust systems is the deep throaty rumble that accompanies a powerful motor and solid air circulation system.
Aftermarket products designed to enhance the suspension and handling of the now upgraded power in the BMW are also popular additions. Short shifting systems improve on the shifting ability of the transmission by providing a shorter distance between gears and thereby a smoother shift ratio. A high performance aftermarket control arm will increase handling capability and deliver immediate reactions to the conditions of the terrain. The addition of a carbon strut brace will further improve on cornering, especially over uneven road surfaces, by tying the two front upper strut towers together, resulting in an increase in front chassis rigidity and quicker steering response. For the gloating factor in each of us, the carbon strut brace is also stamped with the BMW logo, just to drive the point home.
Many of the available aftermarket systems are not designed for the do it yourself car enthusiast, at least not without access to the proper equipment. In most cases the consumer will want to have the parts purchased and installed by the same manufacturer, but it is worth some research time to check pricing of parts as well as time and complexity of installation to determine if there are cost savings in shopping around for installation service. Be sure that the parts and labor are warranted on your aftermarket systems, and verify that the parts are still under warranty even if installed as a do it yourself item. In most cases, do it yourself installations do not affect the warranty, but this is an item not to be overlooked.
About the Author
Peformance Products for BMW, MINI, Audi, VW & More - Supersprint Exhausts, H&R Suspension, Euro Lighting, KW Coilovers, H&R Springs, BMW Error Code Readers and much more. For details visit http://www.eurosportdesign.com
No comments:
Post a Comment