I am thinking to switch the OEM 205/45-17 RF to non-run flat, what is a good tire? I want a balance of tirewear, quiteness, performance and price. Please advice.

Thanks

 

there been a few discussion abt it... try searching forum..

 

(Reposted) I am in the same situation, wanting to replace the @#$%^^ runflats.

The question is, which would be the best (cost effective vs. performance) way to go.

1. Replace the runflats with NON runflats, on the 17 Slite rims.

2. Go to a smaller rim (15 vs. 16") and non runflats.

Will the ride/ comfort be significantly different with smaller rims?

Will I get the ride comfort improvement with just replacing the tires?

I'm sure there are similar threads, hope this is not redundant.

Thanks

 

I would like to suggest you read up on the other threads on this subject as there is some great advice out there.

1. my personal opinion after doing it, ditch the run flats. I went with Falken 512s as a somewhat all weather tires.. but they stink in the snow.
2. wheel size is both personal preference and depends on location/street quality. I live in MI with bad streets and frost heaves and I wouldn't think if running 17s... but I know people that run 18s.

 

Ditch the runflats. I got the kumho Ecsta AST. They are very inexpensive, and they are much better than the Dunlops that came with my MINI from the factory.

 

Look into something by Nokian. Either the WRG2s or Vs.

 

I wish we could get tirerack to start carrying Nokians, there are GREAT tires but no one in my area carries them and special ordering adds $s to their already high price.

 

There is a noticeable difference between 16s and 17s, the 17's are at once more direct, go-kart-like, but tramline more and tend to be more harsh/loud. The 16's are more comfortable. I have friends in PittStopMINI who swear by (not "at") their 15's as lighter options. We've all run the Dragon and pretty much kept up with no complaints no matter what tires we had on!

I went with michelin Pilot Exalto PS2's in a 205/45/17 and am pleased, but they do have an odd "ringing" moan at about 72-75 (right about cruising speed, naturally), but it seems to be dissipating with wear. Wet traction is really good, rather quiet, and it's too early to judge treadwear. Dry traction is fantastic. Car balance is good, but a little softer than the Euphori@s.

As good as these are, I'd still love to have a set of 16x7 wheels and good all-seasons for the longer drives. Something about the 16's seems to be "right" with R50/53 minis. 17's are good, but even the larger looking 17's can make it look like it's wearing its big brother's shoes.

Previous experience on my Mazdaspeed Protege with Goodyear F1GsD2's was fantastic - nothing compared for quiet and wet traction, and they were really predictable in the dry too.

Hope this helps, also search the Forum - MUCH more information there.

 

Thanks!

I am debating between just replacing the 17" run flats with non run flats, vs
getting 15" wheels with non run flats. Price vs. performance.

 

Prost, I changed from pirelli RF to General UHP non RF in a 205/45/ R17 and so far I am pleased with them, I live in CA though so I don't know about snow/rain driving. just though this might help. The price was about 500$ less than RF tires.

 

For 205/45-17 non runflats-

At tirerack.com
In Ultra High performance Summer tires (better handling)
Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport $108 each 340 treadwear
General Exclaim UHP $82 each 380 treadwear, good street comfort/value.
Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 $129 each 240 treadwear (low stock)

In Ultra High Performance All Season tires-
Goodyear Eagle F1 All Season $114 each 420 treadwear, good handling, a little rougher/stiffer ride, good wear.
Avon Tech M550 A/S $92 each 360 treadwear

At edgeracing.com
In Ultra High Performance All Season tires
Falken Ziex Ze-912 $76 each 300 treadwear, good street tire.

Replacing runflats to non runflats in the same size usually helps comfort and potentially handling and treadlife- depends on which tire you pick.
So keeping the stock rims is fine if you need to. Tire selection in either 205/45-17 or 215/45-17 for a stock 17x7 rim is OK for non runflats.

Moving to a 16" rim allows for other sizes like 205/50-16 which is usually best or a slightly tall 205/55-16 (use with stock suspension).

Moving to a 15" rim allows for more flexibility like 205/55-15 or even 195/60-15 or 185/65-15. The higher the sidewalls the less stiff so greater comfort but less good for cornering/handling but not too bad considering you have a MINI.

One way to shop is to try to find the "perfect tire" for your needs and then see what MINI friendly sizes it comes in then select the rim for that tire.

Any of the rims will work with 6.5 to 7.5" width. 7" is common.