I got the panicked phone call an hour ago. Representatives at ENKEI were at a trade show in Taiwan spying and researching. Their jaws must’ve dropped when they saw this. An FS-01 copy!
Japan was shocked, annoyed, and surprised that the FS-01 was copied so quickly. Yet, I don’t quite feel the same negative sentiment as the majority of our Japanese counterparts. Why you might ask?
1) Less and less want copies because more and more are realizing the difference between real and fake.
2) It’s a sign that this wheel might do really well in Japan.
3) Imitation is the best form of flattery.
In all honesty however, for Enkei / Kyoho / AME, it’s quite the slap in the face. Better that we bring you the news before anyone else does. Besides, copies always look cheesy. What else can I say except..
1) Don’t judge a book by its cover
2) Shame on you copycats
3) KNOW WHAT YOU’RE GETTING AND DO NOT SUPPORT COPIES (You’ll regret it in the end if you do)