Apologies if this has been discussed, but couldn't find anything on the forum search.

I'd like to hear from anyone that has decided to go with run flat tires. Please post your experiences. Especially anyone that actually got a flat on one and drove with it.

Also, (and please... easy on the flames if I'm overlooking something) if run flats tires are heavier, but can get you by long enough to get a replacement, could one conceivably do without a spare tire, thus actually creating a net reduction in overall weight?

Thanks.

 

I can't believe this! Nobody has run flats??

 

The problem is it's not just total weight that matters, it's unsprung weight, which the wheels and tires are. You want to reduce unsprung weight as much as possible, meaning the lightest wheels and tires you can find. I don't know, to be honest, if run-flats are that much heavier. The problem is, I don't think there are any run-flats made in stock coupe sizes. I could be wrong though.

 

I understand about unsprung weight. But you can balance that by going with an 18" wheel in the < 22 lbs. range. There are many run flat choices in 245/40/18 and 275/40/18, but none that I know of in 19" that fit the coupe.

I think that's the problem. It seems like 90% of the members in this forum insist on having 19"+ wheels. Combine that with the fact that not all wheels accept TPMS sensors that are a must if you go with run flats. Owners don't want to compromise style or their desire for the perfect wheel even it means doing without the TPMS.

But it was worth asking I suppose.

 

Like I said, I don't think there are many in the stock sizes, which most people run. Heck there are barely any regular tires in those sizes! It's not until people switch to 19's where they usually run the larger tire widths, etc.

 

FWIW, I wasn't arguing your point about the lack of availability in stock sizes.

You're right. The problem is with the 225/45/18 stock size. There are quite a few in 245/45/18.

The most popular size combo I've found that would fit an 18x8 in wheel is 245/40f and 245/45r to maintain stagger. But if you go with a 18x9 rim in the rear there are plenty in the 275/40/18 size.

 

I thought about it (I think the Pilot Sports have the 224/45 18's?). The thing that turned me off was the price. The tires are bad enough stock, add the price for run flats and it's crazy.

I just can't justify spending that kind of money.

 

Hey if I had to pull over and change a flat in Hawaii, I'd be right with you. I'd be like, "****, I got a flat tire! But hey, wait a minute, I live in Hawaii," where in all likelihood it will be 82F and sunny with a cool island breeze.

Try pulling over a changing a flat on I-77 coming out of Cleveland during rush hour when it's 45 degrees and raining, and the wind is pelting you with dirt and sand that they don't get off from the winter, then we'll talk.

If I had to spend my day changing a flat in Hawaii or driving to work in Cleveland, I'd ask, "Where's the jack!" You're right, that type of convenience is not necessarily for everybody.

(Am I Hawaii hatin'.... you bet. )

 

Run flats suck on a sports car. Do you know how stiff the sidewalls are on those? I've run them before and you actually lose contact with the road surface frequently because the sidewalls have no give.

Do yourself a favor and just put a small compressor and plug kit in your car and forget the run craps. You will be able to at least limp home or to a shop with just those two items, the chances of taking sidewall damage (unfixable) are very small.

 

I have runflats that came with my Cooper-S's BBS wheels... SP9000 DSST's.
they're decent tires, but cost a lot and has a problem with flat spot memory.
It flat spots very easily even at 35psi.

They can be driven at 55mph for a good 50miles or so (from what I hear) with
the air completely flat.

They are 2lbs heavier than its non-run flat counterpart.

The wheels and its runflats are stackedup in my garage and im using SSR Comps
and GSD3's. Hope this helps somewat.

 

Thanks copbait and kenchan...

Finally some posts from people that have had them! Appreciate the info.

Thanks

 

but then we pay ridiculous shipping fees...'cause we're not "continental US"...just part of the US. ...but that's off subject