MINI2

jalain · Apr 28th, 2008, 06:52 PM

I'm in Canada. I'm considering buying a new Cooper S with the sports package, but I only want the 17" wheels not the tighter suspension. I feel the ride is already tight enough. Just curious to know if anyone has every done this.

Sincerely,

Jalain

Lawrothegreat · Apr 28th, 2008, 10:18 PM

Hi Jalain,

I have a November 07 Cooper S with 17" alloys and standard suspension. I cannot confirm whether the UK spec standard suspension is the same as that in Canada, but I did not specify the optional sports suspension.

The 17" alloys are fitted with the runflat tyres, and currently pumped up to 40 psi. You would expect a bone shaking ride, but it has a surprisingly good ride instead. It is firm, you will feel potholes, bumps etc, but it is very good at dampening out small vibrations and bumps (e.g. road texture). On a good road, it almost feels like it is floating at 70mph - I guess it is tuned to work with the runflats. Of course this is all subjective as it depends on what you are used to?

In terms of handling, the set up isn't the best MINI ever, with hard cornering some body roll is noticeable but the chassis copes well with high speed cornering feeling very fluid. In my opinion it's a good compromise between good handling, and a good ride.

If you are keen driver and like to press on out of corners (full throttle in 1st and 2nd gear) you might want to consider the limited slip differential (I guess this is an option in Canada?). I don't have it but I've only missed it if driving very hard. The standard traction control systems are very effective anyway.

Good luck!

jalain · Apr 28th, 2008, 10:35 PM

Hi Lawrothegreat,
I'll have to decide between sport suspension or no sport suspension. Which will contribute more to a harder ride the 17" wheels or the sport suspension. Maybe the sport suspension is just for better cornering.
Jalain

MINIAC · Apr 28th, 2008, 10:49 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Lawrothegreat (original)

The 17" alloys are fitted with the runflat tyres, and currently pumped up to 40 psi.

I didn't realize the recommended tire pressure was that high on an R56

caesar · Apr 29th, 2008, 08:41 PM

My July 07 MCS has 17" wheels and runflats and standard suspension. The tyre pressures are 35 psi front and 33 psi rear. On the roads we have in my part of the world it's OK. If the pressures were higher then the suspension would be too hard.

grodenglaive · Apr 30th, 2008, 05:02 PM

the Canadian owners manual lists 38 psi for the 17" high performance runflats.
I have those and also the sport suspension. I didn't find the ride too harsh myself, but that is a subjective opinion! I did find however, that when I switched to 16" rims for the winter (with non-runflats) the ride was MUCH smoother.

caesar · Apr 30th, 2008, 06:43 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by grodenglaive (original)

the Canadian owners manual lists 38 psi for the 17" high performance runflats.
I have those and also the sport suspension. I didn't find the ride too harsh myself, but that is a subjective opinion! I did find however, that when I switched to 16" rims for the winter (with non-runflats) the ride was MUCH smoother.

I did not specify Sports Suspension as I heard it made the ride too harsh with 17" Runflats. I have since learned that Sports Suspension provides slightly thicker Anti-Roll bars, but the shock absorber springs are as per Standard

I did try 38 psi which was OK on good surfaces but on some of the rural roads in the UK my teeth almost fell out

Hence me using 35 psi.

kevkbuk · May 1st, 2008, 02:57 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by caesar (original)

I did not specify Sports Suspension as I heard it made the ride too harsh with 17" Runflats. I have since learned that Sports Suspension provides slightly thicker Anti-Roll bars, but the shock absorber springs are as per Standard

I did try 38 psi which was OK on good surfaces but on some of the rural roads in the UK my teeth almost fell out

Hence me using 35 psi.

We've already discussed this on here, but I'm sure the sports suspension is more than just different roll bars, I think the springs are different and wouldn't be surprised if the shocks are too. After driving both suspension setups I don't believe the roll bars are the only difference...

Its funny how subjective this kind of thing is! I don't mean to pick on this post in particular, but I have 17" runflats with sports suspension and yes its firm, but in no way does it ever rattle your teeth, so I've no idea how the standard suspension could manage it. I do 60 miles a day in it and its not the kind of suspension that tires you.

At the end of the day you've just gotta try the cars out, if you drive one with standard suspension and your happy with it then great, if not go for the sport its much better

Lawrothegreat · May 5th, 2008, 10:32 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by MINIAC (original)

I didn't realize the recommended tire pressure was that high on an R56

The tyre pressure sticker on the inside of the driver's door states maximum 2.8 bar for four passengers and luggage. I believe this equates to 41psi?

caesar · May 5th, 2008, 11:36 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Lawrothegreat (original)

The tyre pressure sticker on the inside of the driver's door states maximum 2.8 bar for four passengers and luggage. I believe this equates to 41psi?

If I remember correctly 2.5 bar = 36 psi, therefore 2.8 bar equals 40.3 psi which is almost 41 psi. The pressure should be lower dependent on the number of passengers.

I run on 35 psi front and 34 rear for driver plus one passenger. Higher pressures give better MPG at the expense of comfort

TheBigNewt · May 7th, 2008, 09:14 PM

IMO the SS isn't worth it. You get 1mm thicker ASBs, that's about it. Some say the springs/dampers are different, but you can't tell the difference. That's why the SS ride feels about like the reg. susp ride. If you want better handling you'll have to add a 19 or 21mm rear ASB to start with, and if you want more you can swap out the springs and dampers. The RF tires are what make the ride a bit harsh, not the SS.

grodenglaive · May 8th, 2008, 08:21 PM

Sorry my bad, I just checked the manual - it's 36 psi (not 38) for the MCS on 17's with one passenger and 41psi with 4 people.

boyband · Yesterday, 11:24 AM

I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction.

Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes.

caesar · Yesterday, 11:38 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by boyband (original)

I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction.

Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes.

Turning on the Sports Button will help as it reduces the cars reaction to bumps etc. I have LSD and Standard Suspension rather than Sports for the very reason you have mentioned i.e too hard on rough sufaces. LSD is excellent for reducing torque steer and traction in the wet and would probably help with your problem.

kevkbuk · Yesterday, 03:45 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by boyband (original)

I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction.

Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes.

I find mine can be a little sensitive of large bumps, but only at high speed. Mine has 17s, SS and no LSD. Does your R56 have wider wheels than your prev Mini? Some of what your feeling could be tram lining....

The Mini alloys and runflats are heavy, I will probably change to lighter alloys and standard tyres at some point and expect this to help. If its as scary as you suggest I'd get the car looked at.

Putting the sport button only changes the steering feel, so it shouldn't change the cars behavior. LSDs can also pull and tug at the wheel, not sure if it help with this issue.

May be worth lowering your tyre pressures just a little?

kevkbuk · Yesterday, 03:46 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by caesar (original)

Turning on the Sports Button will help as it reduces the cars reaction to bumps etc.

How does it do that????

Apr 28th, 2008, 06:52 PM	#1
jalain MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Apr 2008 Local Time: 10:02 PM Posts: 3 Offline	Question about sport suspension I'm in Canada. I'm considering buying a new Cooper S with the sports package, but I only want the 17" wheels not the tighter suspension. I feel the ride is already tight enough. Just curious to know if anyone has every done this. Sincerely, Jalain

Apr 28th, 2008, 10:35 PM	#3 (permalink)
jalain MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Apr 2008 Local Time: 10:02 PM Posts: 3 Offline	Tough Decision Hi Lawrothegreat, I'll have to decide between sport suspension or no sport suspension. Which will contribute more to a harder ride the 17" wheels or the sport suspension. Maybe the sport suspension is just for better cornering. Jalain

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search
Rate This Thread
Rate This Thread:

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Sport suspension Vs Sports Plus suspension	Zub	MINI Cooper	37	Jun 21st, 2007 02:24 PM
Difference in ride height between Sport Suspension and Sport Suspension Plus ?	GUSS	Suspension	0	Jun 20th, 2005 07:28 PM
Sport Suspension Plus... should I get it?	afromanbob	General Discussion	49	Aug 9th, 2004 04:58 AM
Suspension - Sport / Sport Plus?	MrM	Faults & Fixes	4	Apr 12th, 2002 05:46 AM
Sport suspension	Johan99	Suspension	1	Mar 30th, 2002 09:41 AM

MINI2

Fuel for your MINI obsession

From stock suspension to aftermarket components like shocks, springs, coilovers, sway bars, discuss them here

Today
Sponsors	Sponsored Links Registered members do not see Google Ads posts, they can also post messages, pictures, and classified adverts. Register your free account today and become a member of MINI2 - MINI Forum

Apr 28th, 2008, 10:18 PM	#2 (permalink)
Lawrothegreat Mini Design Philosopher Join Date: May 2004 Location: Berkshire, UK Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 732 Offline	Hi Jalain, I have a November 07 Cooper S with 17" alloys and standard suspension. I cannot confirm whether the UK spec standard suspension is the same as that in Canada, but I did not specify the optional sports suspension. The 17" alloys are fitted with the runflat tyres, and currently pumped up to 40 psi. You would expect a bone shaking ride, but it has a surprisingly good ride instead. It is firm, you will feel potholes, bumps etc, but it is very good at dampening out small vibrations and bumps (e.g. road texture). On a good road, it almost feels like it is floating at 70mph - I guess it is tuned to work with the runflats. Of course this is all subjective as it depends on what you are used to? In terms of handling, the set up isn't the best MINI ever, with hard cornering some body roll is noticeable but the chassis copes well with high speed cornering feeling very fluid. In my opinion it's a good compromise between good handling, and a good ride. If you are keen driver and like to press on out of corners (full throttle in 1st and 2nd gear) you might want to consider the limited slip differential (I guess this is an option in Canada?). I don't have it but I've only missed it if driving very hard. The standard traction control systems are very effective anyway. Good luck!

Apr 28th, 2008, 10:49 PM	#4 (permalink)
MINIAC MINI Profiler Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: City By The Bay Local Time: 07:02 PM Posts: 10,351 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Lawrothegreat (original) The 17" alloys are fitted with the runflat tyres, and currently pumped up to 40 psi. I didn't realize the recommended tire pressure was that high on an R56

Apr 29th, 2008, 08:41 PM	#5 (permalink)
caesar MINI2 Senior Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Wales Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 670 Offline	My July 07 MCS has 17" wheels and runflats and standard suspension. The tyre pressures are 35 psi front and 33 psi rear. On the roads we have in my part of the world it's OK. If the pressures were higher then the suspension would be too hard.

Apr 30th, 2008, 05:02 PM	#6 (permalink)
grodenglaive MINI2 Regular Join Date: Jun 2007 Local Time: 10:02 PM Posts: 68 Offline	the Canadian owners manual lists 38 psi for the 17" high performance runflats. I have those and also the sport suspension. I didn't find the ride too harsh myself, but that is a subjective opinion! I did find however, that when I switched to 16" rims for the winter (with non-runflats) the ride was MUCH smoother.

Apr 30th, 2008, 06:43 PM	#7 (permalink)
caesar MINI2 Senior Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Wales Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 670 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by grodenglaive (original) the Canadian owners manual lists 38 psi for the 17" high performance runflats. I have those and also the sport suspension. I didn't find the ride too harsh myself, but that is a subjective opinion! I did find however, that when I switched to 16" rims for the winter (with non-runflats) the ride was MUCH smoother. I did not specify Sports Suspension as I heard it made the ride too harsh with 17" Runflats. I have since learned that Sports Suspension provides slightly thicker Anti-Roll bars, but the shock absorber springs are as per Standard I did try 38 psi which was OK on good surfaces but on some of the rural roads in the UK my teeth almost fell out Hence me using 35 psi.

May 1st, 2008, 02:57 PM	#8 (permalink)
kevkbuk MINI2 Senior Join Date: Sep 2006 Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 394 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by caesar (original) I did not specify Sports Suspension as I heard it made the ride too harsh with 17" Runflats. I have since learned that Sports Suspension provides slightly thicker Anti-Roll bars, but the shock absorber springs are as per Standard I did try 38 psi which was OK on good surfaces but on some of the rural roads in the UK my teeth almost fell out Hence me using 35 psi. We've already discussed this on here, but I'm sure the sports suspension is more than just different roll bars, I think the springs are different and wouldn't be surprised if the shocks are too. After driving both suspension setups I don't believe the roll bars are the only difference... Its funny how subjective this kind of thing is! I don't mean to pick on this post in particular, but I have 17" runflats with sports suspension and yes its firm, but in no way does it ever rattle your teeth, so I've no idea how the standard suspension could manage it. I do 60 miles a day in it and its not the kind of suspension that tires you. At the end of the day you've just gotta try the cars out, if you drive one with standard suspension and your happy with it then great, if not go for the sport its much better

May 5th, 2008, 10:32 AM	#9 (permalink)
Lawrothegreat Mini Design Philosopher Join Date: May 2004 Location: Berkshire, UK Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 732 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by MINIAC (original) I didn't realize the recommended tire pressure was that high on an R56 The tyre pressure sticker on the inside of the driver's door states maximum 2.8 bar for four passengers and luggage. I believe this equates to 41psi?

May 5th, 2008, 11:36 AM	#10 (permalink)
caesar MINI2 Senior Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Wales Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 670 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Lawrothegreat (original) The tyre pressure sticker on the inside of the driver's door states maximum 2.8 bar for four passengers and luggage. I believe this equates to 41psi? If I remember correctly 2.5 bar = 36 psi, therefore 2.8 bar equals 40.3 psi which is almost 41 psi. The pressure should be lower dependent on the number of passengers. I run on 35 psi front and 34 rear for driver plus one passenger. Higher pressures give better MPG at the expense of comfort

May 7th, 2008, 09:14 PM	#11 (permalink)
TheBigNewt MINI2 Newbie Join Date: May 2007 Location: Arizona Local Time: 07:02 PM Posts: 34 Offline	IMO the SS isn't worth it. You get 1mm thicker ASBs, that's about it. Some say the springs/dampers are different, but you can't tell the difference. That's why the SS ride feels about like the reg. susp ride. If you want better handling you'll have to add a 19 or 21mm rear ASB to start with, and if you want more you can swap out the springs and dampers. The RF tires are what make the ride a bit harsh, not the SS.

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)

May 8th, 2008, 08:21 PM	#12 (permalink)
grodenglaive MINI2 Regular Join Date: Jun 2007 Local Time: 10:02 PM Posts: 68 Offline	Sorry my bad, I just checked the manual - it's 36 psi (not 38) for the MCS on 17's with one passenger and 41psi with 4 people.

Yesterday, 11:24 AM	#13 (permalink)
boyband MINI2 Senior Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Oxford Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 408 Offline	I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction. Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes.

Yesterday, 11:38 AM	#14 (permalink)
caesar MINI2 Senior Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Wales Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 670 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by boyband (original) I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction. Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes. Turning on the Sports Button will help as it reduces the cars reaction to bumps etc. I have LSD and Standard Suspension rather than Sports for the very reason you have mentioned i.e too hard on rough sufaces. LSD is excellent for reducing torque steer and traction in the wet and would probably help with your problem.

Yesterday, 03:45 PM	#15 (permalink)
kevkbuk MINI2 Senior Join Date: Sep 2006 Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 394 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by boyband (original) I have had mine for over a year now (March 07 S) and compared to my old R53 S I think there is a vast difference between the old and new. I opted for sports suspension but I find the R56 is very sensitive to bumps and drain covers in the road, so much so that sometimes it feels like its going to send the car off in the opposite direction. Has anyone else found this? I know someone else mentioned limited slip diff would eliminate this which I don't have. It makes the ride interesting if not a bit scary sometimes. I find mine can be a little sensitive of large bumps, but only at high speed. Mine has 17s, SS and no LSD. Does your R56 have wider wheels than your prev Mini? Some of what your feeling could be tram lining.... The Mini alloys and runflats are heavy, I will probably change to lighter alloys and standard tyres at some point and expect this to help. If its as scary as you suggest I'd get the car looked at. Putting the sport button only changes the steering feel, so it shouldn't change the cars behavior. LSDs can also pull and tug at the wheel, not sure if it help with this issue. May be worth lowering your tyre pressures just a little?

Yesterday, 03:46 PM	#16 (permalink)
kevkbuk MINI2 Senior Join Date: Sep 2006 Local Time: 03:02 AM Posts: 394 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by caesar (original) Turning on the Sports Button will help as it reduces the cars reaction to bumps etc. How does it do that????