FSDs on the MINI are made for stock springs and should improve ride quality. If you want to change to lowering springs, you'd need Koni Yellows. You also could look into Bilstein HD's, but I'd probably stick to FSD's for comfort.

 

Do the Koni shock improve handling or make the car mushier and therefor less able to scoot around windy roads.

I will look into the HDs and see what they are all about.

 

If you get on the Northern California forum you might be able to get some responses and get some rides in the area in different MINI's and suspension setups. I have a JCW with stock suspension and the 17 inch wheels so they fit over the JCW brake upgrade. And while I'd volunteer to let you drive my car, I'm still under 1000 miles, and I'm 50 miles away from SF. I don't really have any expectation of being back up in the city for a few months. But when I drove up there in my MR2 with a track prepped suspension it was nearly impossible.

 

I agree,

hopefully more people who drive daily on terrible roads will give their 2 cents.

 

If you want another two cents: For sure the run flats will bother you a TON more than the sport suspension. As others have mentioned a combination of the Koni's (which come in the H&R Cup Kit) and lowering springs and removing the run flats will likely get you a look, ride and sport feel that will be compatible with your rough local roads and driving style.

Best of luck! Let us know how you like your results and what you choose!

 

I live in Sf and commute daily from my house to battery street where the streets suck. I have a eibach suspension installed, springs and sway bar and it's not unconfortable. Ya, you need to slow down at the potholes or drive around them but it's all worth it once I get on the 101S. Once my stock shocks give, I plan to switch to the H&R sport cup suspension, which will make it stiffer.

Vince

 

For daily commuters, stay away from sport suspension/fancy XXL wheels.

For road warriors/track rats, upgrade to "Viagra enhanced" grade suspension/wheel combo.

 

Makes sense! Let me know if I can help with the H&R procurement in the future!

 

Thanks everyone,

Based on your feedback I've decided to stick with stock suspension for now. Sell the Web spokes immediately after arrival and put the money towards lighter 16" rims w/ non runflats. Once I have some extra cash I'll probably get the KONI FSDs.

BTW the KONIs do improve handling as well right?

 

Yes the Koni's will improve handling. Obviously not as much as Yellows with lowering springs, but you will get better comfort and handling. Light wheels may not stand up to deep potholes as well as heavier OEM wheels, but with 16's, you may be good due to the fatty tires.