HKS knock off installed
It would be interesting to know what patents HKS hold on their exhaust and if XO2 has violated them. From what I've read the XO2 is a replica and not a counterfeit (and there is a difference). Although I suppose if HKS had patents any proprietery technology and if the technology is copied, then XO2 might be in some doodoo.
PS.. anyone know the backstory of the Topspeed exhaust. Wasn't it "inspired" by the RS-R?
PS.. anyone know the backstory of the Topspeed exhaust. Wasn't it "inspired" by the RS-R?
Last edited by bonusfrag; Mar 4, 2007 at 07:34 PM.
Originally Posted by Ghost 350z
Figured that was coming. But if there is one thing that the knock off didnt copy directly it probably wont hold up it court...Because technically its not an exact replica at that point
Originally Posted by VN_350z
R u telling me those Louis Vouton replicas are legal?
Last edited by bonusfrag; Mar 5, 2007 at 03:41 AM.
Registered User
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: Texas
Patent Infringement
I know very little about international patent infringement, but I am fairly certain that at least the pipes I bought off ETD come from China (it was all over that box and on other items I purchased from them along with part names).
Like many other goods, a genuine article will be bought and reverse engineered and built in quatity and resold at a cheaper price.
Do I have concerns about buying a knock off? Of course I do. Materials, craftsmanship and fit all concern me. Would I rather have the real HKS? Not sure. I'm after performance and looks, not a specific name brand.
I guess I look at it this way, if the knock off companies put a dent in the HKS market, maybe companies that are so proud of thier own products will lower the prices to a more acceptable level to the average entusiast that is after more than just a free decal.
Of course that's just my opinion and I could be wrong!
Like many other goods, a genuine article will be bought and reverse engineered and built in quatity and resold at a cheaper price.
Do I have concerns about buying a knock off? Of course I do. Materials, craftsmanship and fit all concern me. Would I rather have the real HKS? Not sure. I'm after performance and looks, not a specific name brand.
I guess I look at it this way, if the knock off companies put a dent in the HKS market, maybe companies that are so proud of thier own products will lower the prices to a more acceptable level to the average entusiast that is after more than just a free decal.
Of course that's just my opinion and I could be wrong!
Registered User
iTrader: (15)
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 8,269
Likes: 2
From: Get out my way pimpin', FL
Originally Posted by bonusfrag
No, those Louis Vuittons are counterfeits. They are manufactured in a way that deceives people into thinking they are real Louis Vuittons. As far as I understand it, the XO2 exhaust carrys no HKS logos or engravings. It is very likely that the Xo2 exhausts still infringes on patent violations. Your frustration and motives for your action of good samaritonship are valid. But please get your terms straight.
beat me to it
Originally Posted by bonusfrag
No, those Louis Vuittons are counterfeits. They are manufactured in a way that deceives people into thinking they are real Louis Vuittons. As far as I understand it, the XO2 exhaust carrys no HKS logos or engravings. It is very likely that the Xo2 exhausts still infringes on patent violations. Your frustration and motives for your action of good samaritonship are valid. But please get your terms straight.
Originally Posted by VN_350z
FYI, the original HKS carries no logo too. Go check it out.
Last edited by bonusfrag; Mar 5, 2007 at 07:37 AM.
hey man, counterfit or replica, all i know is that i got a very good exhaust at a very decent price and i won't give it up, unless someone wanted to trade their honda civic for it... 
Originally Posted by farobaba
hey man, counterfit or replica, all i know is that i got a very good exhaust at a very decent price and i won't give it up, unless someone wanted to trade their honda civic for it...
i still havent got it on, i have to weight it in the box n all, the take some pics of the tips and other parts, weld quality, then put it on, then make a video inside and out, then i will let u guys be the judge, but the box looks like a 2, just like any other box!
Originally Posted by farobaba
i still havent got it on, i have to weight it in the box n all, the take some pics of the tips and other parts, weld quality, then put it on, then make a video inside and out, then i will let u guys be the judge, but the box looks like a 2, just like any other box!
if replica performance parts suit you, more power to ya.. although, I will pretty much guarantee that you will not gain the same hp numbers as the real thing. I've personally bought cheaper exhausts for my previous cars and I've gone through grief.. I have enough issues with authentic.. why take chances with replicas? let us know how the welding, sound, performance is holding up after 6 months... what is the weight on the replicas anyway? it can't be lighter than the real thing, which is like 34 lbs... I'm not a replica hater.. just prove me that they are just as good and I'll change my mind.
Last edited by Cannysage; Mar 6, 2007 at 12:37 AM.
ok, just checked everything out and finally opened the box... will be posting pics of the welds and other stuff soon. Comes with all the gaskets and bolts+nuts! Weighs in at 79lbs with the box and everything else.
Registered User
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: Arkansas
OK guys, my exhaust came in today. This one was purchased through Invision labeled x02. This is not the one from etd on ebay. So far I'm fairly happy with my purchase. So far the only flaw I see is the tips arent perfectly round. I've already corrected that with a rag and some well placed forces. 
Here are some quick pics of it just out of the box.
Here are some quick pics of it just out of the box.