hahahah this is exactly how i was going to respond. mine are on the way;)

ALX5: They sell two versions. One is pictured on the first page of this thread with the x5 logo etched in. They are simple bolt on top cosmetic application. The other they sell direct on eBay and they are a more comprehensive install and do have the problems u point out.

This discussion is about the former and you can only buy these direct from the seller. They do not list them on eBay.

Is there anyone out there that would want to join me in another group buy for these. I have been emailing with the rep that sells them and he is saying $390 shipped. Hopefully if we band together we will get a steeper discount.

we probably missed a chance for a group buy becase a few ppl already bought in the last few days!!! I'd be in though!

I'd agree with anything that shows pics of 2 different products, but the discussion is really about the ones that are not on ebay (at least it is now) you have to get directly from the seller... and it looks like it comes back in and doesnt look dangerous... the ones on ebay, they do look a bit dangerous, that's why I've never purchased these. but hte ones with the "X5" etched on them, look fine.

I know, im with you on this one man. Why would anyone put something so ugly and cheap on your x5. Its an expensive car, why have those flaky things on there. OEM always. IMO, but its your savs not mine :)

I am putting together a group buy for these as well as other running boards for both the x5 and x3. Anyone interested please check out the group buys section on the main forum page under BMW Related Forums.

In response to NOVAX5 and Brit6: these are a fantastic inexpensive alternative to the factory running boards and require a fraction of the install time/effort/cost. They might not provide as large a stepping area but they do give added traction and there is plenty of room to stand on them and they are strong enough to handle as much weight as the stock parts they bolt on to. As for the dangerous claim these are secure if installed correctly and I have yet to see an actual incident of them flying off.
The OEM RB look aweful from side angles as they stick out beyond the fender flares and wheels and have the potential to catch on either clothing/shins or curbs/barriers. And as for buying from a discount dealer, Morristown BMW who advertises on this site don't come close to $550 and their labor is $120 and hour. They happen to be a somewhat local dealer of mine and I often use them for parts and actually purchased my first BMW from them years back. BTW FYI their service department is bureaucratic and negligent.

Not sure why say that "Morristown BMW ... don't come close to $550". Their price for X5world members is LESS than $500 plus shipping...

I have bought multiple parts from them and can definitely recommend their online parts service!

for all you who try to claim this is close to oem quality and functionality, let it be that way then. and why would you let bmw install it for $600 labor while a local mechanic guy could do it in 45 mins for $75? check them out side by side you will see what i mean by oem over these cheap looking ones. not all of your passegers know that its not a real running boards which is just bolted on the plastic trims that can break if someone step on it by accident. trust me on this one, its no where near oem quality and functionality and it is cheap looking. go with oem.

I think it's great that you are pro-OEM. But so far, everything you've said as far as quality and "cheap" is a matter of opinion. I think your opinion can get some validity if you've say, purchased these boards yourself, or even seem them up close and not in pictures? If you don't like them that's fine, but why waste more time trying to convince everyone else to get OE? I work for an auto company and can probably get OE at cost, and I might still consider these