Anybody replace the 205s on the JCW 18" yet? I noticed that the 215s are cheaper and have more of a variety. Can those work?

 

Lots of people running 215/35-18 tires ... but they're not run-flats.

 

It's funny. I didn't realize that the JCW wheels had runflats on them. That must feel great. Basically like you are driving on a rim with no tire huh?

 

LOL, that's all I know.

However, runflats are not a requirement. I would prefer to run without them.

 

35? Stock is 40, so my followup question is, does 215/40 -18 rub?
35 vs 40?

 

You should be fine on non runflats in 215/35-18.

Most MINIs that run 18" wheels use that size with good results and yes the selection of tires is much much better. If undecided try talking to Alex@tirerack.com for some info on what MINI owners have tried in the past.

Some options in 215/35-18 at tirerack.com
Pirelli P Zero Nero M+S for $138 each ultra HP all season tire
Yokohama Parada Spec 2 $145 each Ultra HP summer tire
BFG G-Force T/A KDW2 $159 each Ultra HP summer tire
Avon Tech M500 $128 each Ultra HP summer tire (good street tire)
Kumho ecsta MX $111 each Max Perf summer tire
and more
Fuzion zRi
Bridgestone Potenza RE-750

 

Thanks for the info.

 

Surprisingly they really don't feel any different from the 17" wheels/runflat combo.

 

Which is not exactly a ringing endorsement...

 

LOL

I came from the X-Lites w/ runflats. Moved over to 18 Wasps w/ Paradas and I would have to say that the ride is basically the same...

 

I've talked to sales people who have gone for many test drives in MINIs with the S-lytes and runflats and asked them to compare the ride quality with the JCW 18" rims and runflats and they all said it was similar on MINIs with stock suspension. Might be a little different if you have lowered your MINI.

Generally the 18" rims and non runflats are similar riding (maybe better but may depend on which tire selected) to the 17" with runflats. Weight might be similar and cornering should be good with the 18" and 35 series tires.

X-lytes with runflats are firm but better than the S-lytes with runflats.