R50/53 THE APRIL CLUB
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
Consider yourself added 911...
Welcome :smile:
Good to see another CVT in the mix... if you haven't found it already, there's a whole forum devoted to the CVT and various driving techniques over on mini2.com (part of what convinced me to go w/ the CVT in the first place).
Welcome :smile:
Good to see another CVT in the mix... if you haven't found it already, there's a whole forum devoted to the CVT and various driving techniques over on mini2.com (part of what convinced me to go w/ the CVT in the first place).
1st Gear
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 22
Likes: 0
kgmini, thanks for the warm welcome to the club. I noticed we have very close production dates, with mine a bit lower than yours. Does that mean anything? Wow, feels great to be in a club! I hope the dues are reasonable.
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,806
Likes: 0
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Welcome to "The Club" 911. This is the place to be to endure "The Wait".
I am going up to our cabin in the mountains this weekend. Can't decide if I want to drive Pyro or not. I don't have snow tires, and I have heard chains are a bad thing for a mini. My biggest winter worries are staying off of flooded roads which are quite numerous in NorCal. I'll probably drive the wifes boring Taurus. I don't really care what happens to it.
Today was sunny and clear and 60 mph offramps were fun and safe.
Andy
I am going up to our cabin in the mountains this weekend. Can't decide if I want to drive Pyro or not. I don't have snow tires, and I have heard chains are a bad thing for a mini. My biggest winter worries are staying off of flooded roads which are quite numerous in NorCal. I'll probably drive the wifes boring Taurus. I don't really care what happens to it.
Today was sunny and clear and 60 mph offramps were fun and safe.
Andy
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
Here's a fix for everyone:
150:
SynapticFire - MCS, DS/B, #6608586
XAlfa - MCS, DS/DS, #6602173
112:
JuanPacoLopez - MC, IB/W, #7081430
911 - MC, IB/W, #3502455
37:
kgmini - MCS, IB/W, #3502590
Now that we have a few members, how about some stats? So far we have 2 MC's, 3 MCS's...
Both of our MC's are CVT's (YAY for the CVT!!!). We've got one 3-spoker (911).
Everyone except kgmini has a sunroof (either from premium or separate), and it looks like we have a pretty unanimous support for the anthracite :smile:
Today's time-wasting question: I noticed when I went to the dealership with my girlfriend that she commented on how nice the "leather" seats were in the demo. They were, of course, black leatherette sport seats (just as I'm getting). To those that have them, how many people have you "fooled" into thinking you sprang for the real-deal?
Also, congrats to XAlfa on being our second member to hit 150!!!! :smile:
150:
SynapticFire - MCS, DS/B, #6608586
XAlfa - MCS, DS/DS, #6602173
112:
JuanPacoLopez - MC, IB/W, #7081430
911 - MC, IB/W, #3502455
37:
kgmini - MCS, IB/W, #3502590
Now that we have a few members, how about some stats? So far we have 2 MC's, 3 MCS's...
Both of our MC's are CVT's (YAY for the CVT!!!). We've got one 3-spoker (911).
Everyone except kgmini has a sunroof (either from premium or separate), and it looks like we have a pretty unanimous support for the anthracite :smile:
Today's time-wasting question: I noticed when I went to the dealership with my girlfriend that she commented on how nice the "leather" seats were in the demo. They were, of course, black leatherette sport seats (just as I'm getting). To those that have them, how many people have you "fooled" into thinking you sprang for the real-deal?
Also, congrats to XAlfa on being our second member to hit 150!!!! :smile:
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
Ok April Club....
To get ourselves back on the front page where we belong...
I noticed in finishing up my reading of the thread past (on page 130 now) that several folks from last year had ipods + aux inputs.
Did anyone get the ice-link? I'm curious if it's worth the extra scratch above and beyond getting the aux adapter and mounts. The difference isn't astounding (mounts+adapter+cable = $110, icelink+mount = $200, $250 w/ a panavise mount).
So, do you think it's worth the extra cash or not? I'd kind of like the MFSW controls, but at the same time if I got the panavise mount the ipod would be in super convenient location ANYWAYS.
To get ourselves back on the front page where we belong...
I noticed in finishing up my reading of the thread past (on page 130 now) that several folks from last year had ipods + aux inputs.
Did anyone get the ice-link? I'm curious if it's worth the extra scratch above and beyond getting the aux adapter and mounts. The difference isn't astounding (mounts+adapter+cable = $110, icelink+mount = $200, $250 w/ a panavise mount).
So, do you think it's worth the extra cash or not? I'd kind of like the MFSW controls, but at the same time if I got the panavise mount the ipod would be in super convenient location ANYWAYS.
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
The ice-link is made by Dension:
Dension USA
It's basically a full-featured adapter that integrates the ipod w/ the MINI's radio and MFSW controls. It takes the place of a cd-changer (so you can't have both at once).
The panavise mount I described is actually just the "mounting bracket" to hold the ipod in place on your MINI. It can be used in conjunction w/ the aux input adapter and simply puts your ipod in easy-reach. You can ALSO use it with the ice-link as it kicks the pro-clip (the mount that comes w/ice-link kits)'s ***.
Here's a link that explains the Panasive in more detail (with pics). It just makes for a cleaner install than the pro-clip, which quite literally "clips" onto the outside dash rails. The Panavise is a much more permanent (and professional-looking) install.
If you're leaning towards an ice-link, I STORNGLY recommend waiting until mid-late April to purchase. According to an e-mail exchange I've had recently with Dension, there's a V2 of the ice-link coming out then. It provides a much more "integrated" unit which uses only the dock connector on the ipod (as opposed to the inline headphone remote jack) for both power AND audio. Technically this should provide superior sound quality as the signal from the headphone jack is amplified (and therefore "distorted" to some extent) while the dock connector audio out is not.
EDIT: As a side note... if you DO decide on the panavise+aux input combo as opposed to the ice-link, Belkin makes a really slick car charger that ALSO uses dock connector audio (which you can then cable to your aux input directly). This would make for the absolute cleanest install (one cable from ipod, as opposed to 2 w/ the ice-link), and equal sound quality to the forthcoming ice-link V2.
Dension USA
It's basically a full-featured adapter that integrates the ipod w/ the MINI's radio and MFSW controls. It takes the place of a cd-changer (so you can't have both at once).
The panavise mount I described is actually just the "mounting bracket" to hold the ipod in place on your MINI. It can be used in conjunction w/ the aux input adapter and simply puts your ipod in easy-reach. You can ALSO use it with the ice-link as it kicks the pro-clip (the mount that comes w/ice-link kits)'s ***.
Here's a link that explains the Panasive in more detail (with pics). It just makes for a cleaner install than the pro-clip, which quite literally "clips" onto the outside dash rails. The Panavise is a much more permanent (and professional-looking) install.
If you're leaning towards an ice-link, I STORNGLY recommend waiting until mid-late April to purchase. According to an e-mail exchange I've had recently with Dension, there's a V2 of the ice-link coming out then. It provides a much more "integrated" unit which uses only the dock connector on the ipod (as opposed to the inline headphone remote jack) for both power AND audio. Technically this should provide superior sound quality as the signal from the headphone jack is amplified (and therefore "distorted" to some extent) while the dock connector audio out is not.
EDIT: As a side note... if you DO decide on the panavise+aux input combo as opposed to the ice-link, Belkin makes a really slick car charger that ALSO uses dock connector audio (which you can then cable to your aux input directly). This would make for the absolute cleanest install (one cable from ipod, as opposed to 2 w/ the ice-link), and equal sound quality to the forthcoming ice-link V2.
4th Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 404
Likes: 0
From: Austin, Texas
>>We need another chefie visit. I've got a list of random things in the pantry and fridge that I'm sure he could come up with a great meal from - sort of our personal iron chef...
I'm here Rachel...
Give me your ingredients and let's see what I can do...
-->JPL
Here's my iPod experience--I have mine installed with the AUX adapter on the parcel shelf and the iPod itself in the left front "cupholder" (which is actually a PERFECT iPod holder). I have added the Belkin charger/adapter and now consider my setup perfect. I almost always have the player set on shuffle so don't really feel the need for MFSW control...when I do need to make a change its *very* close at hand. Pass on the ice-link and use the $$ for another mod.
My $0.02--YMMV
-cheffie
_________________
03 MCS-CR/B>>>>Now motoring through a twistie near you<<<<<< CWFAC 03 Rocks!
I'm here Rachel...
Give me your ingredients and let's see what I can do...
-->JPL
Here's my iPod experience--I have mine installed with the AUX adapter on the parcel shelf and the iPod itself in the left front "cupholder" (which is actually a PERFECT iPod holder). I have added the Belkin charger/adapter and now consider my setup perfect. I almost always have the player set on shuffle so don't really feel the need for MFSW control...when I do need to make a change its *very* close at hand. Pass on the ice-link and use the $$ for another mod.
My $0.02--YMMV
-cheffie
_________________
03 MCS-CR/B>>>>Now motoring through a twistie near you<<<<<< CWFAC 03 Rocks!
2nd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
From: Dallas
Perfect timing on the iPod discussion. I received my iPod mini yesterday and I was doing a little research on what mount to use. I saw the ice-link and it looked really cool. I liked the MFSW integration.
I ordered the aux-input and will install that myself. I'll probably use the Belkin adapter to connect the whole mess. :smile: Not sure where to mount the mini, but I have a couple months to work on that.
I ordered the aux-input and will install that myself. I'll probably use the Belkin adapter to connect the whole mess. :smile: Not sure where to mount the mini, but I have a couple months to work on that.
2nd Gear
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 61
Likes: 2
From: Florida
>>For the record, DS and IB are always the two more popular colors in CWFxClubs - except for The November Club - that was a Chili Red month 
>>Ryan
What's that white stuff on the ground? We don't have that in So.FL.
>>Ryan
What's that white stuff on the ground? We don't have that in So.FL.
1st Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Concerning the iPod discussion, rumor has it that Alpine will soon be releasing a head unit with iPod integration like no other. Not only will it have full control of the ipod including track selection, the display on the head unit will show the song that is currently playing (including album, artist, etc). All this is done with a single connection (the dock connector).
Of course that means ditching the stock stereo.
FWIW, I'm sticking to the Aux connector until I figure out what I really need, and in the hopes that some of these products mature a bit.
-SF
Off the topic, Anyone try the built in bluetooth handsfree option yet? Is it even available yet?
Of course that means ditching the stock stereo.
FWIW, I'm sticking to the Aux connector until I figure out what I really need, and in the hopes that some of these products mature a bit.
-SF
Off the topic, Anyone try the built in bluetooth handsfree option yet? Is it even available yet?
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 745
Likes: 0
From: Toronto, Canada
Hey April Club:
You guys are MINIfreakin' Amazing!
When I launched the FIRST Can't Wait For Club (November /02) I had no idea that any Club would hit the page views and posts that you guys have.
We had less than 6500 page views - you guys have 48,000+!! The Club started in Sept /02 and the rest is history. You've done an unbelievable job of archiving the full MINIwait and MINIgot experience. Mark F. should publish your thread as a book, pics, sigs and all.
Now, if you're serious about your MINI, download the Amazing Registration Form to MINImeet 2004: The Wolfe Island Adventure.
Don't know what MINImeet is? Check out MINImeet 2003 and find out. We're limited to 60 MINIs this year - so don't miss the boat!
MOTORmore, April Club. You Guys Rock!
You guys are MINIfreakin' Amazing!
When I launched the FIRST Can't Wait For Club (November /02) I had no idea that any Club would hit the page views and posts that you guys have.
We had less than 6500 page views - you guys have 48,000+!! The Club started in Sept /02 and the rest is history. You've done an unbelievable job of archiving the full MINIwait and MINIgot experience. Mark F. should publish your thread as a book, pics, sigs and all.
Now, if you're serious about your MINI, download the Amazing Registration Form to MINImeet 2004: The Wolfe Island Adventure.
Don't know what MINImeet is? Check out MINImeet 2003 and find out. We're limited to 60 MINIs this year - so don't miss the boat!
MOTORmore, April Club. You Guys Rock!
I've got the ipod installed with the ice-link.
It's AWESOME, with an easy install.
I'd type more, but, well... just got back from having a dear ferret put to sleep and burying him. I'm just not in the mood right now...
.. it's a good time to just go wander around in the mini for a while.
It's AWESOME, with an easy install.
I'd type more, but, well... just got back from having a dear ferret put to sleep and burying him. I'm just not in the mood right now...
.. it's a good time to just go wander around in the mini for a while.
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,806
Likes: 0
From: Santa Rosa, CA
Rachel, Sorry about your ferret. They are such cool little creatures.
I got to know one many years ago even though they are illegal in CA.
A friend had one and it was a great little friend to him.
Do something special for yourself,
Andy
I got to know one many years ago even though they are illegal in CA.
A friend had one and it was a great little friend to him.
Do something special for yourself,
Andy
1st Gear
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Louisville, KY
Just ordered my MCS on Saturday for April delivery. See you on the road soon....
Chili Red
White Roof and Mirrors
White Bonnet Stripes
Combo #1: Premium Package
Combo #3: Cold Weather Package
16" V - Spoke with all-season run-flats
Front Fog Lamps
Silver Wheels
Panther Black Leatherette Upholstery
6 Speakers with AM/FM & CD
Anthracite Dash
Jason
Chili Red
White Roof and Mirrors
White Bonnet Stripes
Combo #1: Premium Package
Combo #3: Cold Weather Package
16" V - Spoke with all-season run-flats
Front Fog Lamps
Silver Wheels
Panther Black Leatherette Upholstery
6 Speakers with AM/FM & CD
Anthracite Dash
Jason
Jason: Welcome to NAM and The April Club!
Well, this weekend I rotated my winter tires; they had 3k miles on them, and the fronts were WOAH worn down way more than the rears (typical MINI behavior, lol). I also adjusted my rear swaybar to make it stiffer, to reduce understeer.
Cheers,
Ryan
Well, this weekend I rotated my winter tires; they had 3k miles on them, and the fronts were WOAH worn down way more than the rears (typical MINI behavior, lol). I also adjusted my rear swaybar to make it stiffer, to reduce understeer.
Cheers,
Ryan
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
Hey everyone...
A warm welcome to jason... I'll get you added to the list ASAP.
Some sad (sort of) news for me today; On my way to work, I t-boned a recycling truck. It was swinging wide to make a right turn at a 4-way (from the left lane) and failed to signal. In my panic, I failed to pump the brakes on my (non ABS) Civic... I only hit the guy doing maybe 10mph or so, but he didn't hear/feel it immediately and kept driving. Drove right up onto and over my front driver's-side wheel well.
The good news is, I'll likely be getting my Mini a bit sooner (though not the same one). I've got a call in to my MA and he's supposed to find something similar at another dealer and have it shipped here for me. We'll see what he finds :smile:
My car is somewhat driveable, though the front springs are entirely collapsed and the struts are leaking gas when I go over bumps (I drove it home). It was only worth maybe $1,000 anyhow, and seeing as how I only have $1,000 deductible liability on the car I'll probably just junk it.
Looks like it's the bus for me until Saturday at least! :evil:
A warm welcome to jason... I'll get you added to the list ASAP.
Some sad (sort of) news for me today; On my way to work, I t-boned a recycling truck. It was swinging wide to make a right turn at a 4-way (from the left lane) and failed to signal. In my panic, I failed to pump the brakes on my (non ABS) Civic... I only hit the guy doing maybe 10mph or so, but he didn't hear/feel it immediately and kept driving. Drove right up onto and over my front driver's-side wheel well.
The good news is, I'll likely be getting my Mini a bit sooner (though not the same one). I've got a call in to my MA and he's supposed to find something similar at another dealer and have it shipped here for me. We'll see what he finds :smile:
My car is somewhat driveable, though the front springs are entirely collapsed and the struts are leaking gas when I go over bumps (I drove it home). It was only worth maybe $1,000 anyhow, and seeing as how I only have $1,000 deductible liability on the car I'll probably just junk it.
Looks like it's the bus for me until Saturday at least! :evil: