First off, this is the first thread I've started myself. I'm more of a lurker than a poster on forums but I absolutely love reading the info on NAM. Thanks to all that post the wealth of info for MINI owners! Now is my turn to share something that I don't think I've ever read before on NAM.

I found a killer deal on a set of 16" X-Lites aka V-Spokes with Sumitomo HTR Z II in 205/50 16. I've always wanted to swap out the S-Lites (Heavies) that came with the car. I took a scale to each wheel/tire combo as I was making the swap. The 17" S-Lite with Pirelli Euphoria run-flat was 47 lbs. The 16" X-Lite with the Sumitomo tire (non-run-flat) was 37 lbs. They were a whole 10 lbs. lighter!!! I could tell there was a difference in the weight when putting the new wheels on but did not think it was that much of a difference. I was amazed.

As far as ride quality, my MINI now rides much more comfortably but I don't think there is any compromise in handling. Granted I only drove a few miles tonight after putting them on. Even my wife who sees cars as appliances said that she could feel the difference in ride quality.

 

I must admit that my butt dyno doesn't feel the difference (even after switching from RFs to conventional tires on the X-lites) but I feel better knowing that I've shed 8lbs (IIRC) per corner. I think mine were (well worn) 17" vs new RFs.
Congrats on your first thread!