Fun day in my R59
 

Went out today, wandering through back roads and ended up on what's known locally as highway heaven (Highway 7, near Mount Ranier).

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.nor...f79d5511d7.jpg


Was the first time out in decent weather with the JCW sway bars off a R56(24, 18), 15mm wheel spacers w/extended studs, and my new tires. Good news 215/45R17s on R112s don't rub with 15mm spacera, yay.

At one point I spotted a Cobalt SS driving at "spirited" speeds and thought to myself, self, I wonder if the Mini can catch that guy? Sure enough, I caught him and dogged him for a while before releasing my catch, and there is no doubt, he was trying hard :). I'm super happy with the 24, 18 setup on the R59, it's not so tail happy it wants to oversteer unexpectedly, but still rotates very well at an elevated pace, with easily approached limits. Not enough bar for autoX, but, I think perfect for mountains. Absolutely shocked at the raw mechanical grip I was getting, and I the new found stability during high speed transitions left, right, left. PSI at 38/34 f/r was just right.

Here's the section I went Cobalt fishing on, the map picture doesn't do the road justice, it's full of 15mph and 20ph indicated, high camber very tight corners and some sweepers.

Fell in love with my roadster all over again.
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.nor...11edd94bc7.jpg

:D

I envy you! I spent the day washing, waxing, detailing my R59.... S, same great color as yours. :D

Very cool.

Maybe This Weekend....
 

It's been a rough winter here in the Midwest but recent warming trend has melted most of the white stuff ( and unfortunately created a lot of flooding issues ). Am hoping this upcoming weekend's projected 60+ degree days will allow for a proper cleaning/waxing/top treatment and interior detailing. Am really looking forward to that!