My dilema:

I need to change just (2)Dunlop's DSST 9000 Runflats at the moment
I'm happy with them but they wear fast on the front
I'ts either change those (2) tires or go the non runflat route
with a set of (4) Goodyear's GS-D3's for just $200 more.

my concern is about the 215/45/17 tire width
is there is a big difference in handling/performance?
having a wider tire on the mini and
does it affect the suspension at all?
or it's better to play it safe and use the OE dimensions instead?

I'm concerned since
I'm planning to get the H-Sport springs plus
a big brake kit (Wilwood, Stop-Tech or JCW, not sure yet)
and don't want to find out the hard way that
it's not the right tire for the mods I'm planning
(rubbing, clearance issues etc...)

What would you do and why?

any help with comments, examples, pictures or links etc...
would be appreciated
regards,
Charles

 

if you're worried about clearance, how about getting the
GSD3's in 215/40/17 size? there's a lot of people running
that tire in that size. plus you get a $40 rebate if you
buy from tirerack right now.

those DSST's are a joke when compared to the GS-D3's.

 

hi Kenchan

actually i though about it
but the ride should be harsher, right?

what tires are you using?

anyone else want to chime in?

regards,
Charles

 

Charles,

I just bought some Goodyears in 215/45/17 on a Cooper S. Ride is better than the Dunlop runflats. Seems smoother, quieter and is slightly less harsh when hitting bumps or freeway expansion joints. I also bought the Conti repair kit but am trying to figure out where to put the darn thing. It it too big to stuff into either storage compartment in the rear boot.

I also have the Wilwood 12" street brake kit on the car but I don't have any desire to lower the car. The stock height works for me cause of all curbs and dips I encounter everyday.

Pete

 

You're happy with the Dunlops (as I am), so your best and least expensive solution is to replace the 2 tires. That puts off another tire purchase for quite some time. Once you need 4 tires, you have more options available, including less expensive subsequent generation runflats which are becoming better and better all the time. Personnally, I drive fast (I live in Germany). I like the safety aspects of the runflats, as well as the piece of mind of not having to rely on ADAC (German auto club), especially if I'm zipping through a neighboring country. In addition, I contend that 90+% of those that opt for non-runflats do mainly to save money, but justify to themselves and others that the "ride is so much better." The ride is noticable at best. It certainly doesn't transform the handling. Still, there's merit in saving money and improving the ride. But hey, wake up, there's no spare! For me, I'm old enough to have had many flats and a few blowouts. No spare and no runflats is not an option I'm willing to live with.