Let's try not to get into a runflat - non-runflat debate here please.

Why are the only options for 16" rim runflats, the OEM tires? You'd think with the push from manufactures and the tire industry towards RFT that we'd see more options, say a 205/50-16 in a max-performace summer (think Bridgestone RE050)

Alex - any thoughts if we may see more options this spring? Considering the driving I do, and the roads around here, I'd rather stay with RFT for daily street tires and keep the nonRFT for the auto-X.

 

cost

 

Sounds like a Max Mosley answer

But if the tire is aready produced in a 205/45-17, how much more cost is really associated in producing a 205/50-16? A more popular size tire with a larger potential market.

Guess I just need to rant as I don't want to stay with the 195/55 SP 5000s, nor do I want to have to shell out several hundred for 17" wheels to clutter my garage more.

 

you need new tooling which is very expensive.


manufacturing101. lol

 

Each tire company has certain constraints on what tires will get produced.

No tire can easily be produced in all sizes. One can look at the size and the tire application as well as the cost of manufacture and how many cars will likely need this same tire both from the factory's orders and from the car owners replacement needs.

There simply is not that much need for runflat tires given their very high cost, difficulty to work with, stiff ride qualities, and hefty weight.

Most cars don't need performance tires in smaller sizes like the MINI does and most non runflat tires in these sizes offer reasonable options for owners seeking replacements. The original runflats are also possible as replacements.

A company would have to cut a deal with several car manufactorers to get enough orders to make it possible to produce a runflat in the size for the MINI along with a few other cars in mind. Maybe the current contract that MINI has for stock tires is a good one for both MINI and the OEM tire supplier that is it hard for a competitor to invest and expect much of a profit from aftermarket sales. MINIs are not exactly flooding the market and how many of us choose to replace OEM runflats with more runflats?? Maybe one in five? Maybe more.