Any of you who have ditched your runflats for the winter (or permanently) but still want the security of a spare tire...

I've joined your ranks, but hate the thought of having to put a filthy tire in the back of my car should I ever get a flat. So I broke down and brushed up on some skills I haven't really used since junior high...



That's the bag for the compact spare. Tucked inside will be a larger version to fit a full size tire (once I get my new wheels/tires so I can measure them). The picture doesn't show it well, but the color almost exactly matches my IB!

Call it what you will... crazy, obsessive, ****, or maybe even interesting. Just wanted to share (mainly because I actually figured out how to thread the sewing machine after all these years)

 

Robyn,
I call it really really nice :smile:
And can I buy one?

 

Awesome idea and looks terrific! Matches your blue dash too! :smile:

 

Jerseygirl - That is SWEET! You should make more and sell them here. Have you ever though about just making the bigger bag expandable? That way, you only need one bag to fit the spare and regular tire. mini-t could be your Hawaii rep and DaKineMINI will probably be the first in line!

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Despite what others may think, I'm here to help.

 

Yeah, my original inspiration came from not wanting to end up with rub marks on the plastic in the boot caused the tire shifting around (even though it's strapped in). Once I came up with the idea of the smaller bag it seemed only natural to make a larger one in case I ever actually need to USE the spare.

 

Robyn,
That is wonderful. You have resurected your sewing and design skills. Clear out the kitchen' you will need the space to fill all the order requests. What fabric did you use?

 

Really neat idea, however since I still need all space I can get in the boot, replacing my RF tires for regular radials is not an option for me.

Maybe you can sell the idea to MINIFINI

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'02 Cooper CVT PW/B, Bone stock (Hers)
'04 MCS CR/W/Chrome Grille and mirror caps (His)

 

I used a nice heavyduty exterior grade canvas with upholstery thread for strength. As far as making one bag that was expandable, I had thought about that but the logistics of that were going to be beyond my limited sewing skills. As it is there was already much cursing and poking of my fingers with needles to do the simpler bag.

I'd be happy to sell them but the materials themselves aren't exactly cheap. The small bag comes to about $35 and both bags together are around $75. If there's any interest I'll look into seeing what other colors that fabric comes in.

 

Another thought! What about using white canvas on one side and the rest another color? That would truly be MINI!

 

>>Another thought! What about using white canvas on one side and the rest another color? That would truly be MINI!

True but I think the white would get way too dirty way too easily.

 

I think this is a really cool idea! And I'm sure that if you wanted to sell them, you could.

But barring your developing a whole new business in sewing, how about selling (or posting for free if you're so-inclined) the pattern and materials list? I would probably be able to work up sufficient enthusiasm to make my own if I had a good set of instructions to go on.

Just a thought...

 

What a brilliant idea. I hope you don’t mind me posting this link on Sunshine MINIs.

 

I have and IB/W, but I suggest dark gray or black for the bag so it will match a panther black interior. Honestly, you have a great idea with that bag, but I would be afraid that having it in a color that stands out against the rest of the interior would just encourage a smash-and-grab. I would prefer it to blend in with my interior as much as possible.

 

>>What a brilliant idea. I hope you don’t mind me posting this link on Sunshine MINIs.

Post away. I have added an official post in the Marketplace with all the details if you want to post that instead. :smile:

 

So how much does the space saver spare cost? I have an early Cooper S that came with no jack or lugwrench either

 

PM for you JerseyGirl


I managed to get a jack and lugwrench off of ebay, now I just need to order a spare. Does anybody know the cost?

 

I ordered my spare from Classic Auto Campus. I think it was around $80 plus shipping (but I've since heard that price may have gone up a bit). Even with the shipping it was cheaper than going through my local dealership.

 

You should really harness your powers for evil...

 

I carry fix-a-flat, a few tire plugs, a plug tool, a 12V air pump, and a cell phone, which is all much lighter than a spare tire, jack, and wrench.

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Visit Vince's MINI page

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>>I carry fix-a-flat, a few tire plugs, a plug tool, a 12V air pump, and a cell phone, which is all much lighter than a spare tire, jack, and wrench. :smile:

 

Robyn, how do you strap down the spare if it's in the bag? Frankly, my biggest concern re. carrying a donut spare in my MCS is that in the event of an accident it could become a rubber and steel missle. I know you said you strap yours down...but where and how?

Maybe a picture of your spare-bag installed in your boot? :smile:

 

>>I have and IB/W, but I suggest dark gray or black for the bag so it will match a panther black interior. Honestly, you have a great idea with that bag, but I would be afraid that having it in a color that stands out against the rest of the interior would just encourage a smash-and-grab. I would prefer it to blend in with my interior as much as possible.

I was going to get black but they didn't have it at the time. There's no danger of anyone stealing it because it's tucked away in the boot where nobody can see it. Besides, I don't exactly live in an area where I worry too much about people breaking into my car like that.

 

hey robin,
great idea. i plan a northern trip soon with my mini and have been seriously considering carrying a spare. have you considered using cordura for the fabric. probably a little more durable and less money. wilderness suppy or mountaineering shops often sell it. i would like one in black :smile: . i think that the boot net would hold it in place nicely. please let me know if you are taking orders. i think that one of the aftermarket mini suppliers would consider making them. for example minimania sells an 'oil bottle bag'. good work, thanks.

 

That's an excellent idea Robyn, and after seeing your photo, I was reminded of my days as a drummer...many, many years ago.

 

>>Maybe a picture of your spare-bag installed in your boot? :smile:

OK, you asked...


It's held in with a bungee cord to the tie downs in the boot.

I'm not familiar with that material. I went with the outdoor canvas for a couple reasons.

1. It's durable.
2. It's weatherproof so if you end up putting a wet tire in there when you're out on the road somewhere it can handle it.
3. It's mold and mildew resistant.
4. My sewing machine can handle it (no way was I going to sew by hand!)

Manoo, I am taking orders if you are interested. All the details are in my post over in the Marketplace: Tire bags for sale

I am heading out this afternoon to pick up some more blue fabric as well as black.