I have a 2012 MCS with 16" stock wheels. I'm pushing 30k on the original RFs (one has had a nail for the last 2-3k, but too close to the sidewall to risk repair). Many of the tires recommended in this forum aren't available in 195/55-R16. Are there other sizes I can safely use without buying new rims? What risks/issues should I expect?

 

205/50R16 is a very common alternate. 175/60R16 is a very recent addition for a winter size. I have sold 205/45R16 and 215/40R16 as well, but the options are very limited in these sizes.

 

For stock 16" wheels-

Runflats only come in 195/55-16, there are several to choose from.

Even though none of the alternate tire sizes are perfect the common choices with stock suspension are:
205/50-16 near to OEM tire diameter
205/55-16 slightly taller tire diameter but works.

Additional alternate sizes are:
225/50-16 will fit a 16x6.5" rim but is wider and taller than OEM.

A 50 or 55 series sidewall tire will be more comfortable for street use and more forgiving over bad roads or potholes.

All season tires will give longer treadlife and work with colder weather, they do OK in dry or wet conditions. Ultra High Performance All Season tires are a good match for the power of a Cooper S.

Do you have a budget?

Just looking at Ultra High Perf All Season tire class-

In the OEM 195/55-16 size:
General G-max AS-03 $90 each, 480 treadwear, 18 lbs
Kumho Ecsta 4X $82 each, 420 treadwear, 19 lbs
Both are good value oriented all around tires.

In 205/50-16:
Continental ExtremeContact DWS $119 each, 540 treadwear 19 lbs
General G-max AS-03 $85 each, 480 treadwear, 19 lbs
Kumho Ecsta 4X $82 each, 420 treadwear, 20 lbs
Of these the Continental DWS is the most comfortable but not as crisp on handling. It's good in light snow.

In 205/55-16:
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric All Season $111 each,500 treadwear,22 lbs
Continental ExtremeContact DWS $118 each, 540 treadwear 21 lbs
Bridgestone Potenza RE970AS $97 each,400 treadwear, 23 lbs
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 $132 each, 500 treadwear, 23 lbs, New model
General G-max AS-03 $80 each, 480 treadwear, 20 lbs
Yokohama ADVAN S.4. $117 each, 400 treadwear, 22 lbs
Kumho Ecsta 4X $81 each, 420 treadwear, 21 lbs

In this size you have more options, some with better handling vs comfort, slightly more weight to each tire. Bridgestone RE970AS is good blend of handling and comfort at a reasonable price, not as long treadlife.

Rebates are commonly offered with some of these tires when bought in set of four.

If comfort for commuting and long treadlife are your priority (with a little less crisp handling) then-

In Grand Touring All Season tire class-

195/55-16
General Altimax HP $90 each, 440 treadwear 18 lbs

But in 205/55-16 you have many good choices-
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/survey...wws=N&showcm=N

Prices are from $89 to $133 each, treadwear about 600-700.
The top 5 are all very good commuting tires, prices are reasonable too.

Got more questions, contact Alex@tirerack.com

 

Minihune, you slay me. What a helpful post...

Cheers,

Charlie