Replica Alloy Wheels

[James Mk1]

Considering buying some replica alloys (Mk2 Focus RS style, but in 17" 4 stud to fit Mk6 Fiesta). Found some good (or what looks like) buys on ebay, such as: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/17-FORD-F...s_tyres_Trims_Car_Rims_ET&hash=item565d553983

Just wondering if I should avoid cheap replicas, will the structure of the wheel be any weaker etc? Seems a very good price, for example you can get 18" BBS CH reps (Mk5 GTI Ed30 wheels) which are very expensive (for genuine ones obviously) here: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/18-VW-BEE..._tyres_Rims_Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item565b746035
(This price is for tyres as well)

Any thoughts/experiences?

Thanks

 

[clioestate]

Replicas are considerably weaker than oem parts as with everything you get what you pay for but if you do buy them avoid pot holes.

 

[not260]

I ran my golf on reps for 3 years 50k miles ish and they have been structurally excellent. However the polished parts needed work after only a few weeks of winter (corroded under lacquer) and they are a couple of kilos heavier than genuine wheels. For the money they look the part tho. Just wax them regularly or get them sprayed with a proper lacquer before you fit them.