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      05-03-2018, 11:37 AM   #1
jns_e85
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My Several Reviews on Shift Knobs!

I meant to post this a while ago, but here it is! I believe I have tried almost every common shift knob for the Z4M and figured I would share my thoughts with everyone considering a new knob! (Sorry in advance for the wall of text!)


On Original Shifting Mechanism
OEM Broomstick – p/n 25117836906
Yes it lights up, but that’s all that is cool about this knob. Did not like the vagueness of the shift feel and tossed it aside pretty quick. Glad I did!

ZHP – p/n 25117896886
Arguably, the most popular shift knob upgrade for the Z4M. Coming in at 5.4 oz, it made shifting gears feel SOOOOOO MUCH BETTER. Ergonomics of this knob are also amazing. This remains my favorite knob in appearance and hand feel, and I thoroughly enjoyed it on the OEM shifting mechanism



After Auto Solutions SSK (ninja edit: also after Rouge Engineering transmission and Vibra-Technics engine mounts)
ZHP – p/n 25117896886
Following the SSK install, I hate to say the ZHP lost its magic feel for me. With the increased “notchiness” feel of the shifting mechanism, it just didn’t feel as good anymore to be as the weight wasn’t enough to improve the shift feel. I began searching for alternatives

BMW Performance - p/n 25110429269
A buddy of mine had this knob laying around so we figured what the hell. This is a seriously cool shift knob in appearance. At 6.3 oz, this knob is noticeably heavier than the ZHP. However, the smaller ergonomics of the knob with my truckasaurus hands didn’t mesh well. In addition, the small nature of the knob didn’t help with the shift feel for me on the SSK. If I had smaller hands and was still on a stock shifter, this would be a serious contender

Jaffster - http://www.bimmerworld.com/BMW-Inter...hift-Knob.html
Looking around the forums I found a few members who recommended this knob following the AS SSK install and Vanne conveniently was selling a V1 version at the time, so again, “what the hell, why not?”

I like the setscrew option of the V1 for swapping knobs, but it appears they are now press fit like the others. At 8 oz and 6” tall, this knob is a beast and is straight up ridiculous in appearance. If you get it, expect a slew of phallus and dildo jokes from your mates. In addition, it kinda makes you embarrassed to be seen with. However…

THIS SHIFT KNOB WITH THE AS SSK IS THE BEST THE SHIFTING HAS EVER FELT IN MY CAR. EVER.

It virtually eliminates the notchy feel from the AS SSK, and gear changes are like a hot knife through butter. Also because it is so tall, I *may* have occasionally reverted to being a 5 year old pretending to be a proper racer driving a touring car on the back roads, but I digress… because of the ridiculous appearance, this knob is reserved for autocrosses only for me.


Weighted Broomstick – p/n 25117896884
OEM look with more beef! This is the knob I currently have installed 95% of the time. This knob is not illuminated, but comes in at 6.7 oz. So far, this has been the best “goldilocks” knob for me. Looks good, and the additional height and weight over the ZHP has resulted in a substantially less notchy shift feel, though still moderately present

Currently, I have been strongly considering an F10 M5 knob, due to the increased weight over the ZHP, but at $215 bucks that decision is going to sit on the back burner for a while!

EDIT
I bought another knob, there must be something wrong with me

Storm Motorwerks V2 Knob - http://www.storm-motorwerks.com/inte...hift_knobs_v2/
At the suggestion of ZeD4Mr, I did take a look into the Storm Motorwerks Knobs, and ended up purchasing their V2 6 speed in a titanium finish (pics below in comments!)

I was not a fan of the styling of the V1 personally, and found the V2 intriguing in a retro sense (steel version of an E30 style knob essentially). While this knob is not as heavy as the V1 at 500 grams, this isn't light weight. At 450 grams (16 oz) its the heaviest knob I have tried.

The set screws are handy for easy installation and removal. The finish is really nice, and pictures don't do it justice. Ergonomics are ideal for those with big hands, but I would guess those with smaller hands would prefer a smaller knob.

In terms of feel, I believe it is marginally better than my daily knob (weighted broomstick mentioned above) as the extra weight helps with shift feel. However, I am not 100% sold on this becoming my new daily shift knob (it only has been a day after all, and I think I need more time to render that verdict haha)
As of now for my personal preference, I would still argue that the Jaffster still provides the best shift feel. As always, YMMV!
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Last edited by jns_e85; 05-18-2018 at 08:53 AM..
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      05-03-2018, 12:49 PM   #2
ZeD4Mr
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I've tried everything you tried and has the AS SSK as well.

By your descriptions on all these knobs, you will be disappointed with the M5 knob. I have one, it's in the box.

In addition to your list, I've also tried ACS knob and Stormwerks V1 knob.

By far, Stormwerks is the one I drive everyday. it doesn't get hot in the summer nor cold in the winter. Shifting is heavenly.

I occasionally change to Jaffster Knob for track days because of the height but it still feels notchier than Stormwerks. Jaffster is fine on the track since there is a focus on shifting at times but on the street, shifting is done subconsciously and Stormwerks works for me.

p. s. I also have RE trans mount and VT Engine mount.
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      05-03-2018, 04:17 PM   #3
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This is a great post, thanks!! Any pics of the Jaffster or Stormwerks setup?? I have the UUC SSK with the ZHP knob right now, thinking about trying something new
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      05-03-2018, 04:44 PM   #4
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Great review and I agree how the the Jaffster plus AS kit is the best combo. After a while I wanted to change things up so I went with this oe knob which is pretty tall. Slightly notchier than the Jaffster but overall pretty good:

http://www.bimmerworld.com/Manual-BM...117896884.html

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      05-04-2018, 04:17 PM   #5
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Have the bmw performance knob with RE ssk, feels better then the zhp imo.
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      05-04-2018, 07:30 PM   #6
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I wonder how the shifter on the Z compared to E60, which is used as an “oe” ssk for other models
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      05-04-2018, 09:41 PM   #7
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Is it wrong that I sort of want to put a big chrome ball on my shifter like this?

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      05-06-2018, 11:17 PM   #8
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^ Not at all, but get one with the marking better engraved/painted.
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      05-07-2018, 12:44 AM   #9
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So I'm thinking, does the shift knob weight really make a difference? If it does some lead tape or other ballast could be added to several options. Years ago I used lead tape (got it from a Superfund site ) to weight tennis rackets. Huge difference and I could change balance to head light or head heavy. If stock needs more mass then there are some eco-friendly approaches I'd guess.
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      05-07-2018, 08:59 AM   #10
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Sad to hear the F10 knob would be a let down most likely.

Quote:
Originally Posted by ZeD4Mr View Post
In addition to your list, I've also tried ACS knob and Stormwerks V1 knob.
(proceeds to look up Storm Motorwerks knob) "Weighing in at just over 500g..." Holy balls that's heavy, that's over a pound in freedom units! I may have to try it...
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      05-07-2018, 10:41 AM   #11
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I just put Auto Solutions SSK couple weeks ago to my coupe which still has the stock shift knob and feels okay to be honest, the coupe also has UCC transmission mounts. I have a brand new M5 zhp knob that I am planning in putting it soon but after reading these messages idk anymore, I think I am still going to give it a try anyways.
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      05-18-2018, 08:54 AM   #12
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Updated post for another shift knob I tried!
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      05-18-2018, 08:55 AM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Redacre View Post
This is a great post, thanks!! Any pics of the Jaffster or Stormwerks setup?? I have the UUC SSK with the ZHP knob right now, thinking about trying something new
Ask and ye shall receive

Jaffster
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      05-18-2018, 09:00 AM   #14
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Storm Motorwerks V2 with Titanium Finish (excuse the sagging shift boot!)
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      05-18-2018, 03:49 PM   #15
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You know what I really want? A heavy ball shifter, but also has lit up numbers. I'm going to make one of these somehow. Not quite sure how yet. Here is my photoshop mock up.

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      05-18-2018, 04:30 PM   #16
jns_e85
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mainsoda View Post
You know what I really want? A heavy ball shifter, but also has lit up numbers. I'm going to make one of these somehow. Not quite sure how yet. Here is my photoshop mock up.

You may be very interested in the Storm Motorwerks V1 then http://www.storm-motorwerks.com/inte...hift_knobs_v1/

Doesn't light up, but at 500 grams (almost 18 oz) it is quite heavy!
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      05-24-2018, 11:45 AM   #17
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Based on the advice in this thread I decided to try out the ZHP knob as it looked really stock. Had no idea the shift feel would be this much better. I love it.
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      12-09-2018, 01:44 AM   #18
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Have you guys tried 25112222529?
how easy is it to remove the boot from the knob?

Last edited by fryh1n; 12-10-2018 at 11:25 AM..
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      12-10-2018, 01:00 PM   #19
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I use
Mechunik Amber LED Illuminated Shift Knob
Feels great and solid since it's technically a chunk of metal
I can't get the illumination to work since I think i need a resistor or fix the fuze first but have a look
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      12-11-2018, 09:24 AM   #20
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I ended up with this, a heavy weighted ball shifter. It feels so nice under the hand and shifts so smoothly that I can't even believe it.

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      01-05-2019, 09:02 PM   #21
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M5, lighted, heavier than stock, nicer leather boot.


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      01-09-2019, 12:37 AM   #22
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My "new" M came with a LeatherZ boot with M-color stitching, and either an F10 M5 knob, or ZHP - I'm not sure which, they're nearly identical - but whatever it is, it's lighted, so that's cool. I was going to put a new stock knob in it because I like the extra leverage the extra length provides, but this is just a perfect combo for me, so it stays.

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