My 2018 Countryman JCW came with the 19" tire option. Looks cool, but ride is a little harsh. Would it get any better if I switched to non-runflats?

I am planning on it as soon as I get through the stock run flats. Definitely looking forward to it.

I switched to Potenza RE980 I didn't find much difference in terms of ride quality but Bridgestones are known for stiff side walls. I did feel slightly more body roll when turning quickly.

Switching to non-runflats, made a huge difference in ride quality for our 17' CM. Even the wife could tell a difference, and we're on 19" wheels.

We plan on replacing our runflats when they wear out with regular tires. Had to replace one @ $240 when the wife hit a pothole.

Anyone know why bmw and mini doesn't believe in tire rotation.

I had runflats on my 12 R60 and hated them, switched to regular tires and the ride was much nicer. Same with my 16 R60, it has the 19s and run flats and they were dreadfully crashy. I just swapped out to some regular tires again and the ride quality has improved so much.

I just had mine rotated a couple months ago. My left front outer edge had worn a bit from taking the entrance ramp near my office too aggressively all last summer.

+1 on switching to non-RFs. You won't believe the ride difference. You will want to invest in, and carry, a tire patch kit and a 12-volt compressor since there is no spare.

Since this is in the owners manual I'd have to disagree with your statement:

Rotating wheels between axles Different wear patterns can occur on the front and rear axles depending on individual driving conditions. The tires can be rotated in pairs be‐ tween the axles to achieve even wear. Further information is available from a dealer’s service center or another qualified service center or re‐ pair shop. After rotating, check the tire pressure and correct, if needed.

Well we just had the car in for service and was told they don't rotate the tires. I wanted them to rotate the tires front to rear. Tires should be rotated for even wear. Maybe if I paid them they would have. The service was free. I have 10k on the car. Took it to Tire Town for rotation 20 bucks.

Maybe if I paid them they would have. The service was free.

BINGO .... if they say rotation is required then it would fall under the pre-paid maint'

and since tire rotation is recommended more frequently than oil changes (their model)

they'd be seeing you more often for pre-paid service
MINI has been on and off with the rotation question since 2002 . . .

**** buy a jack and a speed wrench ..... rotate your tires in 30 minutes with a drink break included

Tire type absolutely affects ride quality. 100%
Lots of more comfortable tires out there.
I fun Michelin PSS tires on my S4 which has 20 inch rims. Rubber band thin. The ride is more comfortable with those than my 18's snow tires!
I'm not a fan of run flats either - heavy and harsh - they've gotten better over the years but I'll go non run flats once these are done. We have 19's for snow tires as well and they are non run flats - much lighter and more comfortable.