So who has experience with BOTH???
I like the idea of the Helix keeping the stock height, but I like the idea of the shifter feeling tighter and more precise which is typical of B&M and other high quality aftermarket shifters. I also like the price of Helix. But if i'm gonna go thru the trouble of buying/installing a short shifter, I want it to feel as good as other shifters i've purchased in the past. Also, does the helix put any extra strain on the shift linkage/transmission compared to B&M?
TIA!

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I have driven several MINIs with the HelixSS installed and I own a MINI with the B&M SS.
I like the HelixSS better. It feels positive and has a short throw without looking different.
I don't think either creates more strain on the shifter components.

HelixSS is much less expensive and will accept the stock *****.

 

>>I have driven several MINIs with the HelixSS installed and I own a MINI with the B&M SS.
>>I like the HelixSS better. It feels positive and has a short throw without looking different.
>>I don't think either creates more strain on the shifter components.
>>
>>HelixSS is much less expensive and will accept the stock *****.

Awesome, thanks Minihune.
But that leaves me with another question. What do you feel is the advantage of the B&M or Alta? You'd think there would be a reason why those would be designed the way they are...or did Helix just stumble upon a new way to do it?

 

forget about taking a BM at Helix

 

>>But that leaves me with another question. What do you feel is the advantage of the B&M or Alta? You'd think there would be a reason why those would be designed the way they are...or did Helix just stumble upon a new way to do it?

The helixSS is very similar in design to the MiniMania SS. Not much to it-just a short stubby piece of metal. The design is different from that of the B&M and Alta. The Helix13SS makes use of the existing shifter and extends it below to change the geometry of the shifting while the B&M replaces the shifter arm with one that is shorter in height. Alta is similar to the B&M but you can adjust the height of the shifter(0-40% less than stock). B&M and Alta require a little more strength to shift esp to reverse.

Alta-SS- higher price-$199 and maximum adjustablility of the shift **** height. Accepts aftermarket *****
B&M-SS- moderate price $130-140, lowers the shift **** height by 1.75 inches and accepts aftermarket *****

HelixSS-Lowest price, $40, a little easier to install, keeps the **** height the same, provides positive shifts with minimal added effort.

 

Well I think the Helix is going to be my next mod.
I just don't see the point in spending so much more for the others.

Thanks! :smile:

 

good thread d2mini, I had the same questions. at $40 the Helix SS is almost a no brainer. looks easy to install to.

Link, in case someone doesn't know what you're talking about.

 

I had heard that some of the SS kits do not allow you to replace the protective cover... Perhaps this is the drawback of the helix?

 

>>I had heard that some of the SS kits do not allow you to replace the protective cover... Perhaps this is the drawback of the helix?

Yes. There is a part that cannot be replaced but I don't think it is a major drawback and none of the owners that had the HelixSS installed in my area have noticed any problem.

I watched Eric from Helix13 do an install on the Helix SS and there was a piece of plastic that could not be put back on. I don't think it is bad not to have it.
If you are concerned then call Eric at Helix13 and ask him about that.
call 1-877-HELIX13

 

>>forget about taking a BM at Helix


Soon enough, my friend, and it's a luxury porclain throne: a worthy addition to the Cabana lounge.