from Bekkers in the 18" SL two pieces?Ie, the one that looks like the real deal AMG two piece SL....Looks nice in the pix, bu tcan't make much out of the quality..or is anyone here using the real thing? I really didn't want to invest $4k in a set of wheels/tires...

I have used 17" imitation rims on my C250D before...I have used an E class avantgarde set and a SLK 7-spoke set. Currently I have OEM 17" 5-spoke rims and must say that the imitation were as good (if not better) as the OEM rims...
I know these are not the Bekker rims, but my point is that imitation rims are a lot cheaper and although there are some quality differences, they don't have to be less good as OEM rims.

greetingz,

__________________
1990 300SL-24
1993 C250D with a minor 600+k kilometer
www.MBenzNL.com(the Netherlands)

You can check out my homepage to see my Bekkers Monoblock 1 piece. I am VERY pleased with the finish and many people even at my dealership think they are real. The lip looks great to especially if you get the SL's.

__________________
Scott Chaffin
Homepage devoted to my 190E:
http://www.scotty-c.com

Some of the cheap imitations(ARE),etc. are good and inexpensive but they can give you balancing problems. If you buy the better ones you should be fine. All factory wheels are made by someone and I believe the stock ones on mine are OZ. So IMHO an aftermarket OZ rim should be great.