I ordered from the wheels from Fikse. They're made to order, which is why it took so long.

I've had good luck with TireRack delivering when they say they will.

 

If you're a Motoringfile reader, listen to White Roof Radio #203 for an interesting talk about the R56 and R53 features and impressions of the JCW Stage I kit. I feel vindicated in my lack of enthusiasm for the Stage I addition from what is said in just the first 2 minutes.

 

You may want to read the comments on WRR and then Todd's follow-up story. He's stance has softened dramatically after driving his GP and the JCW back to back. And I'm of the mind-set that it's comparable to the previous kit at less than half the price. That said it's not for everyone (like most JCW upgrades).

 

Thanks Gabe. I did find the comments after I posted here, but where can I find the followup story?

I still stand by my view as all I have to go on is first impressions from a single test drive myself, and that matches up with Todd's initial thoughts, as well as the dealer comments.

I don't know what it is about my car, but after breakin (1500-3500miles), my stock R56 was a beast. Then it suddenly (now has 4600 miles) seemed to lose power and MPG. Hitting the 'sport' button in most situations is almost unnoticeable now (both in steering and throttle response). Mileage used to be 28-30, and was nearly the same or better in spirited driving. Now it is 22-25mpg typically, and 30-32mpg on the highway at a steady 65-70mph. Instantaneous mpg from the computer (although totally unreliable), drops to single digits going uphill or accelerating.

Some of it may be getting used to the R56, but the LSD used to strain to figure out which wheel to apply power to coming out of curves, and I had to hold tight to the wheel . Now it is completely docile in the same situations. Dealer drove it and found nothing wrong that they could identify, and it hasn't thrown any codes (I have an OBD2 hooked up).

Any ideas?


jas.

 

It's my understanding that Todd is writing a story about comparing the Dealer installed JCw to his GP. Obviously it's not an apples to oranges comparison but it should be a nice read. Not sure when it'll be done.

Meanwhile I have an article going live on MF next week about a comparison of a modded R53 vs a JCW R56.

Sorry to hear about the issues with your car. Haven't anything similar so unfortunately I don't have any advice - other than some time on a dealer's computer and possibly an ECU flash.

 

I have been driving my JCW for about 3 weeks now.The kit was added tothe car at Alexander Mini in So. Cal before delivery.Everything that has been said fits my feelings as to the vast advantages of the kit and the car itself.I too am a liitle bit older and I bought the car to drive and have fun enjoying what the Mini has to offer.I have added the Alta Tubes and the car has responded like a champ.I think the JCW ECU has recognized it's new found ability to breath and I am amazed at the pure power that it creates.There is no lag and the remarks from Mark hold more than true. I took the car to the dealer yesterday to let the GM drive it after the tubes were installed,to say he was impressed would be an understatement.The car now has a growl to the engine that is just amazing throughout its power curve.As to the exhaust,It's sound is pure and with the throaty sound of the engine it works just like BMW/Mini planned.Sure it could be louder,but who cares.The bottom line is get the Kit ,because it does work and the results are just pure fun and thats what Mini is all about.My car has only a few hundred miles on it and I can't wait to see what happens when it really breaks in.....Take care and enjoy

PS...I had a loaded 06 Mini Convertible S with a few engine mods and this car and engine is just so much better and so much smoother....

 

I don't know about the stock R56 MCS engine, but with the JCW mods, the engine loves the 100 octane stuff. I tried some yesterday, and the butt dyno detected a serious increase in acceleration.

 

Could you tell me the diameter of the JCW tips? Thanks