I am getting an 06 MCS... I think. I am having 2nd thoughts about the ride which seems a bit harsh and noisy to me --I like good handling cars but I don't want that much road noise when I go on long trips!

Was wondering how much would the ride improve if I get rid of the run-flats? The car has 16" V-spokes.

 

You'll find many threads on this in this forum. But yes, the ride with non run flats is much better. I went from the 16" v spokes with run flats to 17 inch lower profile 45's in non run flat and even with the smaller sidewall the ride was much improved, handling MUCH better too with better tires.

 

I did look around, but wanted to see how much of an improvement it would be... I guess my concern would be more noise than even comfort although both would be nice.

My main use for the car is highway driving (4-6 hour trips on average), so if the trip is going to be noisy and uncomfortable I'll have to pass on the car (yes, I know, unthinkable! )...

I really like the MCS I have on hold right now, but as rough as the ride was last night when I drove it on Rt. 50 (here in the DC area), I almost about gave up on the car...

Give me some hope!

 

I also thought about ordering an R56 but then I am afraid of the first-year issues it might have...

 

I think I found my answer... it means I may need to change the shocks...

From a post in Mini2:

I had FSDs fitted 3-4 months ago. Just before that I went from 16" to 17", and then run-flats to Goodyear FS1.

My observations FWIW:

16" to 17": more grip but not so chuckable; slides happen much faster

Pirelli runflats to Goodyear FS1: Big improvement in road-noise & comfort. More grip including in the wet.

Standard MCS shocks to FSDs: didn't notice any handling/roadholding difference but comfort levels much improved on rough roadseal. No need to avoid potholes. Biggest comfort difference is when travelling with a passenger.

If I was to do it all again, I'd stay with 16" but get runflats and FSDs as my priorities are handling, & then ride comfort on New Zealand's rough roadswith a passenger rather than roadholding. My driving is mostly commuting along fast but rough coastal roads.

 

I've found that tire pressure also makes a significant difference in ride comfort on these cars - and, believe it or not, tire pressures of demo cars vary widely. Plus five PSI = much harsher ride.
Minus five PSI = noticeably softer ride...

 

All very cool!!! Thanks so much, I knew NAM would not disappoint!

I feel more comfortable getting the car now that I know I have found a solution to my dilemma and that I am not the only one that finds the ride so harsh... seen lots of comments on other threads.

I would change both the tires and add the Koni's... it means I have to add another $1500 to the price.... agh!

 

You no longer need to change your stock shocks in your new '06 R53 MCS! Read my review on the R56 second generation Goodyear runflats fitted to my '05 MCS sporting R84 16" V-spoke wheels:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=93829

 

It would be true if I could get them... the brand new R53s still came with the Dunlops...

 

Keep your eyes peeled in the "Tires for sale" forum here in NAM and look for new R56 owners looking to swap and sell the stock OEM second gen runflats take offs.

You can always sell those Dunlops here in NAM.

 

It's been said many times, but I just switched from stock RFs to non-RFs and the ride quality is drastically improved! No more Slam Bam Thank-you Ma'am
over expansion joints.
Road noise is very much lowered.