We're thrilled to finally show you guys the final appearance of the Motorsport-stripe ultrasuede shift and e-brake boots.

AlkenDesign did an amazing job in sourcing the right stitching, covering all bases such as color, weight, UV-resistance, and figuring out how to correctly match the Motorsport stitching style as found on M-series steering wheels.

Pricing has not yet been determined, but we will offer discounted "introductory" pricing for a good deal. We expect them to cost a little more than the standard ultrasuede boots as there is a lot more hand-stitching involved, but not terribly much more. For example, the standard ultrasuede shift boots are current $79. We should be announcing pricing in about a week, with product available in approximately two weeks from today.

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/motorsport_shift1.jpg

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/motorsport_ebrake1.jpg

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/motorsport_combo1.jpg

More details:

The UUC Motorwerks Ultrasuede® shift boot replaces the original leather boot perfectly. This 100% USA-made boot is produced exclusively for UUC Motorwerks by alkendesign.

Ultrasuede® is the material marketed in Europe as "Alcantara®" and used by BMW Motorsport as optional interior coverings in such cars as the M5, M3, and 330i ZHP.

The fabric is a non-woven ultra-microfiber, marketed in Europe and to automotive manufacturers as ‘Alcantara®’, and as Ultrasuede® in the United States. We use Ultrasuede® HP™ (High Performance), manufactured to meet the demands of various transportation applications. Also known as Ultrasuede® ‘Ambience™’, the material is one millimeter thick, features superior resistance to pilling, stretching and shrinking. It has excellent colorfastness, and is spot cleanable and washable.

Boots are complete with genuine BMW snap-in shifter boot frame. Beware "cheap" versions which do not include the frame!

Installation does not require destruction of original boot/frame - "direct fit" installation means old frame is pulled out of console, new frame simply snaps into place.

To order a standard UUC ultrasuede shift boot, please visit:
http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede

...with product available in approximately two weeks from today.

And the pressure is on! Is it hot in here, or is it just my nerves???

Seriously, a huge thanks to Rob and UUC Motorwerks for supporting me in such a huge way with this venture, and for their patience as I sifted through miles of thread. I hope I can step up to the big time...

I kind of don't like the placement of that ring on the ebrake boot. I wish it was closer to the handle. Looks awkward(sp?) to me.

I will probably still get it when i order the rsc36 though. :)

Both look really nice.

BEAUTIFUL... Can't wait to get one.

Do you have a comparison shot of it next to the M-stitch steering wheel? Any side shots of the e-brake?

How do these other companies expect you to install a boot without the frame?

Oh and when are you going to make E36 door panel inserts in ultrasuede with m-stitching? ;)

Now I want to get my vaders stitched like this. :D

Do you have a comparison shot of it next to the M-stitch steering wheel? Any side shots of the e-brake?

Will try to take some more pics tomorrow, weather permitting.

How do these other companies expect you to install a boot without the frame?

Good question. You're expected to rip the leather off your original frame, scrape off the melt/fastened tatters, and use some type of hot glue or cement... and hope you don't mess up the new boot.

Oh and when are you going to make E36 door panel inserts in ultrasuede with m-stitching? ;)

Now I want to get my vaders stitched like this. :D

Oh, Ken... :D

- Rob

can you make one of these with leather?
or re-stitch my own?

i like the stripes but i prefer leather

can you make one of these with leather?
or re-stitch my own?

i like the stripes but i prefer leather

You're not alone. The Ultrasuede isn't for everyone. However, it seems to be the most popular choice for an aftermarket replacement.

That said, now that the process is settled, we can theoretically prepare boots in many different materials, including leather. However, we need to generate some positive cash flow to compensate for the heavy bleeding that the research, development, and volume productionthis product required. Once the Ultrasuede version has settled into it's market share, we can start offering other choices. For now, this is it.

As for restitching your own boot, I tried that. It doesn't work. Removing the OEM black stitching leaves very distinct holes that are impossible to hit when restitching. The result looks like poop.

Once my fabricators have their different processes solidified, I'll talk to Rob about doing some short runs using other materials. We also don't want to neglect the Gray/Tan interior folks. This first introduction is an attempt to please the majority of the market.

As a developer, I have to say it is great to get this kind of feedback so quickly. It is also frustrating because I know there's no way to please everyone at once - especially without going broke first. I appreciate everyone's input and patience.

wow... me like!

pm me a price. thanks

So will this fit the E34? or is this all E36/E46 love?

*if it will, put me down!

1. Bimmerfreak (shifter/ebrake)
2.

Wow, it's beautiful. If only I had a manual. Great job!

this is pure sexy.oh man i cant wait to make a order

How do these other companies expect you to install a boot without the frame?


It takes like 2 minutes to remove original frame and remove old boot. I quickly sanded down any old residue and test fitted new boot. Then used epoxy - let sit for awhile and then reinstalled. Total no brainer - ebrake is the same way.

It takes like 2 minutes to remove original frame and remove old boot. I quickly sanded down any old residue and test fitted new boot. Then used epoxy - let sit for awhile and then reinstalled. Total no brainer - ebrake is the same way.

Clearly this is not an impossible task, and there are plenty of do-it-yourselfers fully capable of a quick and clean install. The philosophy of eliminating the need to do this is 100% in line with how UUC does business - no compromise in quality. The cost of the OEM boot/frame built in to the retail pricing is substantially less than what a new boot from the dealer parts counter would cost. It is ultimately a courtesy and convenience to any customer not wanting to destroy their original boot, or buy one to rip apart and re-use.

I hear you and I can totally appreciate that. I have only ordered from UUC once but definately will again in the future. (Just got the car in Sept.) I didnt come here to knock the way they do it - just letting old skool know that its really quite simple. I actually documented the entire process when I did mine in case anyone ever had any questions.

So will this fit the E34? or is this all E36/E46 love?

*if it will, put me down!

1. Bimmerfreak (shifter/ebrake)
2.

At this point, only E36 and E46 applications.

However... I don't think the size is all that different. I'll pull my E34 boot out and compare it soon, we might be able to adapt or modify one of the other patterns easily enough.

- Rob

I hear you and I can totally appreciate that. I have only ordered from UUC once but definately will again in the future. (Just got the car in Sept.) I didnt come here to knock the way they do it - just letting old skool know that its really quite simple. I actually documented the entire process when I did mine in case anyone ever had any questions.

Oh, it's certainly not impossible... but easier for some people than for others.

We first offered ultrasuede shift boots back in '99 or '00, all of them were the "you mount it" frameless style. There were sufficient complaints about the difficulty and botched installs that we felt it negatively impacted the customer's experience. That was actually a factor in discontinuing them at that time.

If we ever were to offer them frameless again, it would be with the strong explanation of the customer's sole responsibilty for installation quality.

- Rob

I imagine that many out there would much rather have a clean install, rather than risk their results with gluing, cutting and sanding. I would hate to pay that much for a boot and risk it looking bad. Also the ability to retain your stock boot is worth mentioning.

The real question is why we can't get a plastics fabricator to set up a cheap mock up of the factory frame? This would eliminate the need to purchase stock boots at a premium, remove the boots and prep the frame. Also would save all the wasted leather removed from those frames.

The real question is why we can't get a plastics fabricator to set up a cheap mock up of the factory frame?

Already considered that. Mold charges and minimum casting runs make the break-even point in the several thousands of units. It's simply not feasible unless we can have every E36 made with a manual transmission buy one.

Also would save all the wasted leather removed from those frames.

We're starting a new business with the left over leather... www.bmwleatherbikinis.com :D

- Rob

Already considered that. Mold charges and minimum casting runs make the break-even point in the several thousands of units. It's simply not feasible unless we can have every E36 made with a manual transmission buy one.
Too bad. :(

We're starting a new business with the left over leather... www.bmwleatherbikinis.com :D

- Rob
Can you get those with the ///M stitching? :D

Too bad. :(


Can you get those with the ///M stitching? :D


Now that would be HOT!!!!!:buttrock

At this point, only E36 and E46 applications.

However... I don't think the size is all that different. I'll pull my E34 boot out and compare it soon, we might be able to adapt or modify one of the other patterns easily enough.

- Rob

Well LMK

I dont know if you got my email or not Rob but I think the Ebrake boot would look better if the motorsport stitching just went straight across instead of the interruption by the perpendicular circle....

My wallet has been open for 3 months to buy the complete set! I can't wait any longer!!! :D Looking forward to buying it. Hottt.

Very nice!! I agree w/pp's about the stitching on the e-brake boot though. Waiting for pricing.
LOL on the typo in the subject line too :D

Hey all -

regarding the ebrake stitching - I understand it is ultimately a matter of preference, but my design stemmed from the need to have a single pattern that would easily work for both E46 and E36 boots. They are already quite similar, but the main differences are in the length and angle of the full upright position of the handles. The 'barrel' design close to the handle prevents the straight stitch from bunching up when it is not pulled tight. It also allows for an easier adjustment when it is folded inside out and secured to your ebrake handle. Tradtional/OEM design has two bulky stitches that can make that connection look lumpy.

The other motivation was simply to offer an alternative design to the OEM look. It's hard to get the full look from photos (regardless of Rob's skill), as you're either seeing it from directly above or from the side. The stitching around the circumference of the barrel is pretty cool looking, if I do say so myself!

I think the Ebrake boot would look better if the motorsport stitching just went straight across instead of the interruption by the perpendicular circle....

The reason it's like that is that AlkenDesign re-engineered the boot. Instead of just two curved triangles put together, which makes a big mush when lowered, this design is "fitted" like a snorkel and looks much cleaner. The stitching is part of that re-design.

Of course, the appearance is subjective opinion, but I like it.

- Rob

The 'barrel' design close to the handle prevents the straight stitch from bunching up when it is not pulled tight. It also allows for an easier adjustment when it is folded inside out and secured to your ebrake handle. Tradtional/OEM design has two bulky stitches that can make that connection look lumpy.

Better pics to come, but here's an idea:

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/motorsport_ebrake2.jpg

- Rob

Looks great. Now I have something to have my girlfriend get me when I graduate in May. I doubt I can convince her to get me a new shift knob and ebrake handle too though.

OMG Rob, I must have one

OMG Rob, I must have one

AlkenDesign informs me that we are on-schedule for production... they'll be ready very soon!

- Rob

I am here with good news for all you patient people - The first batch of Tri Color shift and ebrake boots for E46 and E36 have come in from my fabricators. I will be personally assembling these onto OEM frames this weekend, and UUC will have them to ship early next week - as promised!

Even better news, I have been granted the honor of leaking the introductory pricing for this product. Sold as a set - both shift and ebrake boots - will be offered for $179 per set. This product is not yet on their website, so you'll have to wait to order them until that is set up.

These look fantastic, and I am extremely excited to get these to market. A big thanks to UUC and my awesome fabricators for helping me pull this off.

ill be digging through my couch!


waht do you think it might go up to if i can't scratch up enough in time though

Can't wait!

I'm not sure what the intended 'regular' price will be.

I started assembly last night, both as a quality control check on my fabricator's work, and to get the stock ready for shipping. I have to say, I think they did a better job with the hand stitching than I did on the prototypes. It is nice and tight with just the right angles created on the side stitches. I hope you guys like these as much as I do.

I didn't read the whole thread, but here's my input


There are 3 colors, and if you look closely at your stitch, you can see all three. The problem is that the middle color is too overwhelming over the lighter blue stitch. From a normal distance, the stitch looks bi-colored. Maybe you can think of a stitch thats has the same color distribution per area?

I didn't read the whole thread, but here's my input

Thanks for your input. A large portion of the thread was dedicated to color choice and thread search. They are nearly a dead match for the OEM tri colors.

I appologize, the discussion of thread was actually in one of the other threads on the boot topic. Here's the thread link:http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=467631

Here's my text regarding the thread color:
Hey all - thought I'd chime in here... First, thanks to everyone who's offered support and patience while I'm working out the production details and logistics for the tri-color boots, including the very unique e-brake boot pattern. As Rob mentioned, those of you who have seen the prototype images of the tri-color stitching are in for a pleasant surprise. The production thread is so thick and vibrant in color that the prototype boots (made with household thread) are not at all representative of what the finished pieces look like.

I just gave rob a set of production boots for his E36. He does plan on having photography ready tomorrow or Tuesday.

I've spent a great deal of time tracking down thread that not only is a match to the M colors, but will also withstand UV fading. I had no idea how difficult this would prove to be. Short of having colors custom died, there is nearly nothing commercially available that works with the M color scheme and the weight/colorfast requirements. I have literally spent hundreds of dollars ordering what is likely miles of thread to find the winning combo. The final selection is comprised of threads from two separate manufacturers.

Can you say obsessed? Yeah - that was me over the past month or so. Anxiously opening boxes of thread from multiple sources hoping to find the needle in the haystack. I probably need a psych evaluation.

What's my point? There is a tremendous amount of work that has gone into the development and production of these tri-color boots. Even though we are producing them in "volume" in no way should garner the label of "mass produced". Each boot sees no less than three separate pairs of hands during it's construction before UUC receives them to sell. I am employing two individual companies to do the labor. One does the machine stitching, and one does the hand stitching. Yes - hand stitching. The purple "zig zag" stitch can only be done by hand. I found a fabricator who specializes in production of this nature.

As far as comparing my boots to any other source, it is probably a moot discussion. The finished product is still a decorative piece of trim that serves little function. The piece sees very little actual wear or abuse. Both take time to develop, construct, and market. To that end, neither product is better. We (UUC and I) saw a market for these pieces in a volume to suit their customer base. As with any mod, who you buy from is ultimately your choice.

Ken

I am getting a set, that's all there is to it.

I am getting a set, that's all there is to it.
X2

Can't wait!

The wait is over... the boots are now available on UUC's website!

Happy shopping!

The wait is over... the boots are now available on UUC's website!

Happy shopping!
Got the email for UUC earlier today! Can't wait to see what they look like in person! :buttrock

I think you'll like them. FYI - I personally assembled EVERY boot to its frame for this first batch to inspect my fabricators' work. I'm fairly hyper-critical at this point, and I couldn't help but say to myself "wow, these came out better than I expected".

The wait is over... the boots are now available on UUC's website!

Happy shopping!


http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/

I received my shift and e-brake boot the other day and all I can say is WOW...the stitching is very nice and is a great match to the steering wheel. Nicely done! My only gripe is that the e-brake boot is coming loose from the frame; the double sided tape does not seem to be quite sticky enough at the bends in the frame, more work may be needed in this area. Thanks UUC and Alken for a nice product.

Matt

Thanks! I'm glad you like it, and sorry to hear your ebrake boot is coming loose. I've found the tape to be the best solution when trying to accomodate the thick ultrasuede material. However, if the boot gets pulled from the frame during packing or shipping, it may not stick as well.

Feel free to email me - alkendesign@gmail.com - I'd like to come up with a solution that will work for you.

I have got to commend you guys on the work you have put into this. I used the old style which was frameless, and its a PITA. You may want to experiment with 3M super 77 spray adhesive. I used that to secure the frame to my e-brake and shift boots, and it has been both durable, and very very sticky.

The problem is, its sticky as hell, and it makes a mess when you spray it, so it might take some doing to find a way to apply it well.

Good luck in the venture, I'd wish you alot of success, but you don't need my wishes or luck, this was a success from conception!

please make leather versions of these



http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/ultrasuede/

please make leather versions of these


We're discussing it.

Thanks for the compliments, as always!

Ken

Did you guys say something about getting additional pictures or "better" pictures?

Any word on that or has anyone who purchased these posted pictures?

I don't believe we are waiting for better photography... If you can believe it, I am still using a prototype in my own car - I haven't upgraded to a production one yet! I'll snap some pics in my E46 when I finally get off my butt and swap it out.

I know these are selling well, but I haven't seen any posts here. If anyone reading this has photos of the boot in your car, please post it. Feel free to email them to me, I'll post them! alkendesign@gmail.com

Thanks for the massive support you guys have shown, by the way.

Ken

Yes. Please do. I want to see some production boots.

Ironically, I have a box full of boots in my car I assembled this weekend... I'm delivering them to UUC later.

They look nicer installed...

Oh... if I can tease this: I have in my possession an E46 Steptronic boot to use as a model for a protoype. I hope to have it back to the user for some photos in a couple weeks.

Any news yet?


We're discussing it.

Thanks for the compliments, as always!

Ken

The only news is that my fabricator had found a leather source and was working on a prototype. I need to follow up with them.

We are also considering an imitation leather (similar to OEM Leatherette), that should be less expensive and more durable than genuine leather. Additionally, I've tested some Cordura and Balistic Nylons that look very nice, but are a bit difficult to work with. No real decisions have been made.

Ok how about you make me a shifter and ebrake boot and Ill buy it. (in OEM type leather) :)


The only news is that my fabricator had found a leather source and was working on a prototype. I need to follow up with them.

We are also considering an imitation leather (similar to OEM Leatherette), that should be less expensive and more durable than genuine leather. Additionally, I've tested some Cordura and Balistic Nylons that look very nice, but are a bit difficult to work with. No real decisions have been made.