Looking for someone in the area who has NON run flats 17's on their S.

I just got a S convertible and got it with 16's as I didn't like the $ or look of the MINI 17's.

I LOVED the 'nature' of the feel of the tire to steering wheel 'connection' in the S I drove at the dealer with 17" run flats.

I'm wondering if the difference between that feel and the feel in my 16" run flat setup is the lower profile, or the lower profile AND the run flat (stiff) sidewalls. Don't want to buy 17" non run flat and discover it still doesn't have the feel of the S I test drove due to softer non runflat sidewalls. All things being equal I'm leaning towards non run flats but want to be sure they'll have the 'feel' I'm looking for before ordering.

So, looking for a MINI person with 17" NON run flats. Hopefully someone who wants to trade short easy test drives. We hop in my car and you try out the convertible. We hop in your car and I feel your 17" non run flats. I am suggesting just a easy drive around the block or whatever. a couple minute cruise. The sensation I'm looking for is easy to note at a calm, slow drive 'through the neighberhood' pace. NOT looking to 'performace test' or do anything quick or aggresive in someone elses car!

Mark Matarella
Mark@Matarella.com

 

We have a MCS-C with both the OEM 17" runflat and an aftermarket set of 17's with non-runflat tires. The normal wheel/tire combo wieghs significantly less, handles better, rides better, and feels better. It just doesn't work better with a flat.

 

Do you think the steering feels the same? (with the two diff tires) The sensation I can best describe as the run flats felt like rubber coated rims :smile: Like solid rubber tires. I mean it wasn't harsh but the steering was heavier and felt VERY 'direct'. I liked...

Felt like a open wheel Formula Vee car I once drove.

Thanks for the input!

Mark

 

Never mind. Bought 17x7.5 (16 Lb) Kosei K1 Racing and 215 45-17 Goodyear Eagle F1 DS-G3's. Excellent.