Just got an 09 MCS vert with 16" wheels that I love!!!!!!
I want to improve the ride and smooth it out. It is my wife's daily driver and my fun car.
My new to me Cooper S has run flat tires
(Yokohama Advan Sport ZPS size = 195 55 R16) and I am considering dumping those and probably adding the Conti extreme contact DW tires. I live in California so no snow for this car. In checking on the TireRack site I can't find the 195 55 R16 size recommended for my car.

They only have the 205 55 R16 can I run this size on the Cooper S Convertible?

The main question is.... this the best way to improve the ride quality?
Thanks for everyone on this site. Long time lurker and first time poster.
RC

 

I made a similar switch and improved ride comfort a great deal. I have 205/45/17. One caution, a wheel alignment should be considered. My car was pulling right after the new tires were mounted.

 

You can try to manually find the size you want since the built in locator may only look for run-flats. That or try a different brand.

Usually you can go up 10 cm from stock tire size. I have with no issues. The Koni FSD shocks made a big difference and I am going to put them on the wifes car this month (but leave the RF tires) and will know in a couple weeks how that helps.

 

I've found the guys over at tirerack to be very helpful when looking for tires. (I have no affiliation, but I've done a great deal of business with them over the years)

I currently have the Conti DWS version on another sports car I have and am VERY impressed. I live in the mid atlantic area and these tires have handled very well over the winter months. One thing to note is that the sidewall on non-runflat tires, and the conti's in particular is pretty soft. Especially compared to runflat tires. Expect that the car will have more body roll, and some turn-in delay when pushing it hard due to the softer sidewall. For daily driving you will most likely never notice these and be just fine with the softer ride quality.

 

+1

I also have Koni FSD shocks and I recommend them for improving ride quality.

 

Thanks for all the great responses.
I just ordered the Conti tires.
Now should I get the koni shocks
RC

 

Added Contin extreme dws tires today,wow what a difference. It has transformed the car. To me it even handles better, rides quieter, and is smooth. It is not perfect since I have the sport suspension but very nice.
If you are considering dumping the run flats don't wait. It is worth it.
RC

 

I plan on dumping my flintstones soon. 13K miles and they are 3/4 worn out.
You really like the contis?

 

lol I would love to dump mine but they have 6000mi and still look new. I rotate every 3000.

 

Been raining here in No. California so no chance yet of "testing" them out.
Did a lot of reading and they came out on top along with the a couple of others that I can't remember right now.
But very happy with the ride. Have a 50,000 mile warranty.
Good tire, good ride, GREAT car.
RC

 

The rain traction is great on these tires. Rain is a good test. These tires really shine in the wet.

 

So if I get the Koni FSD...that will improve the quality, or do I need to change more than just the shocks?

 

Koni fsd shocks with stock springs will help the ride ,stay away from thicker swaybars because they will make the ride harsher.

 

To the original poster...Did you go with the original 195 or the 205 size? I am about to order new tires and the 195 is not listed as a size for the conti extremes. Just looking for some last minute info before pulling the trigger.

Thanks

 

My Runflats only stayed on the car 2k. So much better handling and ride with Hankook Evo tires. I also installed the spare tire and kit, fits like a glove.

 

I had mine removed by dealer prior to delivery I'm running Michelin Pilot Sport A/S Sports in 205/45/17's. I recently had a friend with an '09 JCW Clubman that had teased me about my anti run flat "obsession" remove his run flats and install these tires. He was amazed at how much difference the run flats made and noted that without run flats it was a different car - all for the better....even eliminated interior rattles.