why is it rare to see 15's?
 

Goodmorning,

It seems when most ditch their stock rims, one replaces with aftermarket rims that are 16,17,18,19 etc..:nod:

I have been searching Graig's List here in vegas, and I see a lot of rims that I think of using. :wink:

I was thinking of going with a 15x7 and putting some big rubber on for comfort, looks and price...:eek2:

any suggestions

I love the ride and look of the 15's on my wife's Cooper. But they are rare because they were not available on the MCS and lots of Coopers came with "upgraded" 16's.

If money were no object, I'd get these:

http://www.tirerack.com/images/wheel..._rgf_ci3_l.jpg

How much are you looking to spend?

If it was me I'd go for SSR Type-C's. 8.8 lbs for $300 each.

You also run into issues with some of the aftermarket 15s fitting over the front stock brake calipers. Definitely an issue with most upgraded brake kits like the JCW also.

bEcAuSe......"Bling is King" :razz:

The MINI R90s in 16 are $152 each at MorristownMINI and are made by BBS as cast in the back side of the wheel spokes. Most go bigger than 15 for future big brake kit fit. I went with the factory MINI 16 inch R90s because I really like the look, and they are way cheaper than the 17 inch MINI 2 piece R90s, and easier to keep clean. Yes ... you can get 17 inch R90 knock-offs on E-BAy for less money, but they are not BBS wheels!!!!!

For me, 15's are the best option! I love the look of 15's on a MINI, plus they are lighter weight, inexpensive tires are plentiful in 15" sizes, and a little bit extra sidewall makes for a nice ride!

My summer wheels are 15x7 Kosei K1 Racing, with 205-55-15 Kumho SPT's
My winter wheels are 15x6.5 cheapo aluminum wheels with 195-60-15 Blizzaks
My race wheels are 15x8 949 Racing 6UL's with 225-45-15 Hoosiers

As you can see, I really do like the 15's. As far as the big brake kits, even for advanced track day driving on race tires, the stock R53 brakes can do the job with proper pads, but if I do ever choose to upgrade to some bigger brakes, there are setups (JCW included) that will fit over these aftermarket 15" wheels.
I do respect others who prefer larger wheels, but for me I'll take my 15's!

Jason

unless you have a new r56 MCS....its very rare that a 15 wont fit. Spun super mesh wheels, and the enkeis that i have ever heard of fitment issues with when it comes to stock brakes.

I've had two sets of 15's, a set of 16's and a set of 17s.....the 15's are my favorite:thumbsup:

a big brake kit is overkill for 99% of MINI's (though...it looks REALLY cool). A good set of pads, fluid, and the stiffer bushings and you have brakes that are ready to stop you in any situation without fading.