OK, so there are countless threads on run-flats vs non. I have a 2006 S convertable and over it's lifetime I've dropped close to $1000 having to replace them. Since I plan to keep this car for a while longer, I can't afford to drop $300+ every year and have decided to change to regular tires. Based on everything that I read, it's definiely possible without too much trouble. Yes I know I run the risk of being out 'there' with no donut, but I might as well put my AAA to work.

So my questions are as follow. Any advice would be greatly apprecieated.

1) Is there any issues mixing and matching RF and nons? My 4 RF now are all going to wear out at different times and I was thinking about replacing each as they go.

2) can anyone recommend a place in NYC (Brooklyn more specifically, but the other broroughts are fine too) that they had good experience with?

3) Is there any specific tire you would recommend for a 2006 s conver?

Thanks!

 

I don't think it's a good idea to mix and match tires, regardless of runflat or not. You don't want a different level of grip and tread on every corner of your car.

The most popular tire around here seems to be the Continental ExtremeContact DW (or DWS if you want an all season)

 

I'm no tire expert but I agree with everything "dannyhavok" posted and would go one step further and say,"Do not mix Runflats with regular tires". Runflats have extremly stiff sidewalls. Thats how they support the weight of your Mini with no air. I have an "06 MCS and just replaced my OEM Dunlap runflats with Continentinal ExtremeContact DWS's. I chose this tire because it had the highest rating for an "ALL Season High Performance" tire. I went one size larger to 215 45 17. It was also one of the highest rated for low noise and high milage. My runflats made so much noise I thought I had suspension problems! With 2 wks and 700+ miles I am very pleased and feel the tires are living up to their high rating. Hope this helps.

 

Hi there! Your concern is a very valid one in today's world where many manufacturers are moving towards installing run-flat tires as an OEM tire. In theory, they do make the vehicle lighter and are better for driver safety but they generally tend to cost significantly more and last much less than their All Season Non-runflat counterparts. Here's a blog on Run Flat tires in general that you may find helpful http://blog.tirevan.com/2011/07/15/w...run-flat-tires

Now, turning to your questions!

1) Don't mix and match your run-flat tires with non-run flats. As the previous responders said, they will adversely impact your drive because of sidewall stiffness etc. They are also not particular safe considering the tread wear differences etc. So, either buy all four new non-run flat tires or stay with run-flat options if you decide to go with less than 4.

2) Recommendation for tires - I'd say my favorite tire by far is the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season http://www.tirevan.com/tires/brand/Michelin-tires.aspx. They are long lasting (50k miles) according to govt ratings (UTQG) and fantastic performace. They generally run about $200-ish. I just bought some this week for the 2nd time and Michelin is running a $70-mail in rebate right now. If price is an issue, look into Yokohama Avid Envigor -- another highly rated and long lasting tire and perhaps even the new General G-max. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of Continental DWS because they offer avg cornering but nothing too fun when you are going fast..so that to me is/was the drawback of that tire.

3) Sorry I don't live in the NY area so may not be much help in the store to buy from...

 

I will let the expertise of the above posts speak on the mix of run-flats and non. i will tell you that I just installed the Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S on my 08 Hardtop and what a difference. The steering is less effort, the ride is non teeth rattling but not to say non-sport and the reason i went with the Michelins. I was going for the Conti's DWS but as i was installing on a 16in wheel, I was concerned of the soft sidewall I had read in here. So i opted for the Mich coz of the stiffer sidewall and thus still giving me that sport feel of the Mini. Good Hunting!

 

I replaced the Eagle RS-A runflats with a set of Hankook Ventus V12's. They're great, and I've run a couple autocross events on them. Loads of grip, and very reasonably priced too. At the time they were running a 60 dollar back rebate on them (very convenient, I didn't find out about it until after I bought the tires) but I'm not sure if that's still going.

 

In California, will the Conti dw track the grooves in the freeway or is the dws a better option. Thanks

 

With both tires being asymmetric, I'd guess them to be close. The DW being a bit sticker may exaggerate tramlining.