4×4 Engineering Service x Bradley Forged Takumi give your G an overland style finish

A gift from the “master”

The Bradley Forged Takumi has a strong presence, perfectly embodying the highest level of overland style.

In the cross-country four-wheel drive culture that developed in Japan, 4×4 Engineering Service is a top aftermarket parts manufacturer and a dream destination for enthusiasts. It has been more than half a century since the company honed its technology in international rally raids such as the Dakar Rally and various trial races, and has made it available to the general public.

Their products always combine “function + texture + design” at a high level, and perhaps their most iconic item is their original wheels. Bradley, which began as a purely domestically produced aluminum wheel with the simple idea of ”making the best 4WD wheels,” is celebrating its 42nd anniversary. They have devised optimal solutions by changing their design methods and styles for each era and model. In response to the current automotive trend toward heavier wheels and larger diameters, they have evolved the wheels to 20 inches using Japan’s most advanced split forging techniques. The wheels are called Bradley Forged Takumi. While retaining the five-spoke design that is the “face” of the series, they now feature the texture of split forging and a sharper design.

Japan’s highest quality forging method

The Bradley Forged Takumi is produced using Japan's most advanced forging methods. The rim is made using a splitting method, in which the forged material is torn and rolled with rollers. It is forged thinner and tougher, achieving both high strength and light weight. This particular wheel comes in Matte Shadow Black, which harmonizes with the body color. Other finishes available are Matte Deep Gray and Matte Titanium Bronze. "BRADLEY FORGED" is engraved into one end of the thick spokes. — [1]

This didn’t just apply to Japanese cross-country vehicles, but also to the G-Class. Having experienced the good and the bad of off-roading, they had a great deal of respect for the G-Class, which shares the same principles. So, as if they were working together, they completed the Bradley Forged Takumi for the G-Class.

The “Takumi” (artisan) in the product name has a meaning. It embodies the “artisan’s skill” that is used to design each vehicle individually according to the performance requirements of the vehicle it is fitted to, including the basic materials and molds that are used for forging. For the G-Class, the size was set at 9.5J x 20 inches (+25), taking into account not only the load-bearing capacity but also the reliability and durability required for rough roads, as well as the brake size and other dimensions. As an example, this time it was paired with a W463 AMG G 63, but the match is outstanding, including the clearance with the AMG calipers. It can also be fitted to the W463A.

A truly tasteful overland style

The combination of a 2-inch wheel increase, the maximum possible to improve off-road performance without sacrificing practicality, and off-road tires, complements the Bradley Forged Takumi wheels. A Front Runner roof rack and a Darch roof tent complete the stylish overland style. — [2]

This AMG G 63 is fitted with thick Nitto Ridge Grappler tires (305/50R20), a Front Runner rack on the roof, and a Darci roof tent, giving it the so-called overland style look. It also features G Trading side ladders, side steps, headlight and blinker guards, and other small touches. This car will be your companion on long-distance journeys across continents, traversing deserts, forests, rocky terrain, and camping out. That’s why professional tools are essential to ensure safety and security in remote areas where life is at risk, while also helping you do your best work.

The ultimate in outdoor style

Solid Japan, which imports the finest outdoor gear from around the world, completed this AMG G 63. The headlight and blinker guards, side ladders and steps are their original parts.

The Bradley Forged Takumi perfectly captures the worldview of the highest peak overland style, while also possessing high performance that can be used effortlessly even on rough roads. It has an aura of solitary sophistication that blends seamlessly into the concrete jungle of the city, and the sight of it silently waiting for the journey while subtly asserting its hidden muscles was very impressive.

REPORT / Daichi NAKAMIGAWA

PHOTO / Atsushi MAKABE

MAGAZINE / GENROQ special edition “G-CLASS MAGAZINE vol.2”