We're on the same page
I always prefer critics to people who hold back. Everyone has its own taste.
Plus, some time when I hear critics on what I design it helps me understand an other point of view I didn't thought of and once in a while it actually helps me making it better and still move forward with what I liked in the first place.

You're doing a pretty awesome job with your R59 anyway that I'm just being my usual perfectionist on details

 

I completely agree. Many times I "couldn't" see the forest for the trees…I'll be the first to admit. Ideas and the constructive evaluation of them is a strength.



-Steven

 

Steven, I noticed that your NM RSe 07s have a +45mm offset, which is fairly close to the OEM R112s. I take it from your pics that you're still employing those 12mm spacers on your winter set up?

 

The RSe07 are a 45ET, but remember they are a 1/2" wider than the R112's, and I am running a 215 width tire. The set-up you see now is with a 5mm spacer, which is a pretty good stance. I have zero rubbing.


-Steven

 

Superb, I would say.

 

This last fall the Roadster was just over a year old, and had seen it's fair share of washings Before the weather changed, I ordered a can of RaggTopp Fabric Protectant. The can was large enough for me to apply three coats to the top. I've noticed when I wash it now, water just beads like crazy. Here's a picture of the the top today, snow and ice melting off, and you can see how well sealed the fabric is. This snow/ice combo has been on the top for several days, and several freeze/thaw cycles as well as repeated snow showers. The RaggTopp really works






-Steven

 

I'm waiting until my next visit to the dealer in the spring. I'm going to insist on a replacement top due to the wear, and then I'll get some RaggTop on it straight away.

 

I got a few more Carbon Fiber additions put on the Roadster, tying the CF theme together nicely. They are for the most part, small changes, bringing the chrome theme down another notch.

Started up front…JCW OEM scoop and CarbonMini CF emblem overlay kit...




Outmotoring CF JCW centercaps…




Out back, Carbon Mini CF overlay and CF emblem…


I really like how nicely this all works together...






-Steven

 

I had put the CF on the spoiler last year to cut down on sun glare. It added a nice touch to the back end as well!

 

I recently upgraded to Rennline's Aluminum Pedal Set. I toyed with this for a long while, because the JCW comes with a pretty nice set of stainless steel pedals already. After seeing Gil-galad install a set on his beautiful Red Roadster, and seeing the quality of these, I ordered a set. On the topic of quality, when I unpacked them to assemble them, I was blown away by the attention to detail and quality.












Driving impressions…the first thing you notice is how comfortable they are under foot. One of the great things about driving a Mini is the feedback the car is giving you, and your feet are a big part of this. The rubber dots on the pedals keep your feet planted very well, while still transmitting good feedback. The throttle extensions work really well, allowing me to blip the throttle on downshifts by simply rolling my right foot onto the throttle during braking. The ability to allow my dancing feet to work the pedals has only added to the wonderful engagement of this car. I'm loving these...



-Steven

 

Yes, have had them installed for some time now. I like them as well.

 

I was out visiting my son in VA this past holiday weekend and I completely missed this fine post. Pedals are looking fantastic, and you're obviously loving them at least as much as I do.

I'm sure you noticed when drilling, as did I, the difference between the underlying clutch pedal (plastic) and the brake pedal (metal). Made me wonder if there is some sort of safety regulation dictating the composition of the brake mechanism.

OBTW, that 1/13 boot shot in the sun with the blackout, spoiler, boot handle, and Akropovic is to die for.

 

Yes, the difference between the clutch pedal and brake pedal is interesting. I thought perhaps it was a little weight savings they were after with regards to the clutch mechanism. Most likely you are correct about regulation.

Any winter projects planned for your Red Roadster?


-Steven

 

Pondering a few. I'll PM you to avoid cluttering up this fine thread.

 

I have been looking over your thread at least 1 time a week. I finally gave in and ordered a set of 18x7.5 with a 40mm offset and 215/40ZR18 tires after seeing how well your wheels fit. Tire rack called me back saying they may rub... I then had to check your thread again(as if I didn't have it memorized) and told them to go ahead and ship them. If they do, I'll figure something out. LOL

 

Thanks for the compliment You will be fine with the tire/wheel size selection. Tirerack has most likely not fitted this specific size, so they cannot guarantee proper fitment. I can tell you they will fit perfectly. By the way, did you go with the NM wheels?


-Steven

 

No, I actually went with some cheap wheels. I like the split 5 spoke look, so I went with Verde Protocol with black accents. I think those wheels look pretty cool since the spokes are very small like there's barely a wheel there. lol. I'm sure we will have be careful whenever we are not on good roads though because of that. They have the silver face too so that should look good with the white car instead of putting all black or all silver.

 

I just installed my summer rubber and new NM RSe12 wheels. I was really happy with the quality and light weight of the NM RSe07 I had been running for the winter. I wanted to shave some unsprung weight from the previous set of MAK DTM's (25.8lbs)I ran last summer. These RSe12's are 18x7.5 ET 45mm, and weigh 18.8 lbs. The fitment is spot on with the 215/40/18. Tires are Michelin Pilot Super Sports. The change from the A/S3's I was running(which are excellent) to the PSS was a little more pronounced the I expected. Turn in is quicker and the feedback is better with the PSS's…not really that unexpected since these are a more focused tire. Shout out to Jerry at NM…excellent service as always!
Here's a look…











-Steven

 

Nice shots as usual, Steven.

 

Thanks Mr. T


-Steven

 

A few from tonight…









-Steven

 

That second one is close to perfect

Photoshop the lights out and you got yourself a nice magazine cover quality photograph. Beautiful!

 

DONE!

 

Great pics Steven. Always enjoy your artwork.