Is it OK to install wheels with less than stock offset and what is the max (or least) amount of offset you can go? I still want the best handling I can get, especially in the twisties, but I'd like to get that "widetrack" look. My mini now has 16" wheels and I'd love to have a wide and fat tire look, when looking at the boot.

 

>>Is it OK to install wheels with less than stock offset and what is the max (or least) amount of offset you can go? I still want the best handling I can get, especially in the twisties, but I'd like to get that "widetrack" look. My mini now has 16" wheels and I'd love to have a wide and fat tire look, when looking at the boot.

You didn't mention if you have an MCS with 16" stock wheels in which case you have X-lites and your offset or et is 48mm or if you have the MC with sport package and have the 5 spoke design with et of 50mm.
Look it all up at
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...pic=2075&4
Also contact alex@tirerack.com for all your questions.

 

>>Is it OK to install wheels with less than stock offset and what is the max (or least) amount of offset you can go? I still want the best handling I can get, especially in the twisties, but I'd like to get that "widetrack" look. My mini now has 16" wheels and I'd love to have a wide and fat tire look, when looking at the boot.

I Have a 2003 Cooper S with 16" stock wheels. I did this because I knew I was going to change them. I recently saw a set of wheels with a -50 offset! The dealer said I'd have to sign a waiver to not hold them responsible for bearing wear.

How about a wide tire? any suggestions?

 

once you have wheel width and offset nailed down, then we cna recond a tire, and forcast the modification it will take to get it on your car. Frankly I think a - 50 et will extend your axels beyond safe limits. I would not do that.

Alex

 

>>>>Is it OK to install wheels with less than stock offset and what is the max (or least) amount of offset you can go? I still want the best handling I can get, especially in the twisties, but I'd like to get that "widetrack" look. My mini now has 16" wheels and I'd love to have a wide and fat tire look, when looking at the boot.
>>
>>I Have a 2003 Cooper S with 16" stock wheels. I did this because I knew I was going to change them. I recently saw a set of wheels with a -50 offset! The dealer said I'd have to sign a waiver to not hold them responsible for bearing wear.
>>
>>How about a wide tire? any suggestions?

You didn't mention what size rim you were after. Typically if you go with a 16" rim you can choose from 6 to 8" wide. Most people choose 6.5 or 7" I would recommend up to 7". Wider can cause some rubbing issues with the tires hitting the fender wells and the 8" wide rims are heavy and may not do much more for handling.

For the MCS the offset is typically -48mm and people may replace it with anything from -42 to -48 without much trouble. Best is in the range of -44 to -48mm.

Once you have picked the rim size then that will determine the choices for tires. For 16 ro 17" rims typically people choose 215/40 or 215/45 if you like wide- usually with 7" wide rims.

Alex@tirerack.com can assist you with various options. They tend to be conservative and not too far out where safety issues would be of concern. Also your dealer can void your suspension warranty when you use non standard wheels.

Therefore many owners like the 16x6.5 or 16x7 for a compromise of lighter weight, wide enough for some good tires that are non runflat- to smooth out the ride and handle better, good appearance, and have reasonable cost.

 

I think he's addressing negative 50 offset, that when bearing wear becomes an issue. NOT advised.

ALex

 

>>>>Is it OK to install wheels with less than stock offset and what is the max (or least) amount of offset you can go? I still want the best handling I can get, especially in the twisties, but I'd like to get that "widetrack" look. My mini now has 16" wheels and I'd love to have a wide and fat tire look, when looking at the boot.
>>
>>I Have a 2003 Cooper S with 16" stock wheels. I did this because I knew I was going to change them. I recently saw a set of wheels with a -50 offset! The dealer said I'd have to sign a waiver to not hold them responsible for bearing wear.
>>
>>How about a wide tire? any suggestions?
>>
First of all, THANK YOU to all for your excellent advise.
I have decided on a 16" wheel (stlye YTD) with an offset of 42-45mm. Using a Falken Azenis 215/45/16 tire. (I hope you approve).

NEXT QUESTION: If I want to lower my springs what is the difference between Sport Lowering Springs and Struts with adjustable springs??? Will one give both a confortable ride on the straightaways and a firm controlable response in the twisties, especially with these tires???

 

>>NEXT QUESTION: If I want to lower my springs what is the difference between Sport Lowering Springs and Struts with adjustable springs??? Will one give both a confortable ride on the straightaways and a firm controlable response in the twisties, especially with these tires???


What kits specifically are you looking at?

Alex

 

>>>>NEXT QUESTION: If I want to lower my springs what is the difference between Sport Lowering Springs and Struts with adjustable springs??? Will one give both a confortable ride on the straightaways and a firm controlable response in the twisties, especially with these tires???
>>
>>
>>What kits specifically are you looking at?
>>
>>Alex

I have no products in mind. I'm still interested in getting general information comparing the two options. Product suggestions are also appreciated.
Thanks

 

Check out Koni sport with HR springs!

Alex

>>
>>I have no products in mind. I'm still interested in getting general information comparing the two options. Product suggestions are also appreciated.
>>Thanks

 

check it out
43 offset
8 inches wide

perfectly flush with the side of the car
and yes def the mean fat tired look from the back..but i dont have any back pics right now