How to improve ride quality: koni shocks vs. new tyres

[andreuroig]

I have one big doubt:
if you had to pick one of of these two options to improve ride quality, which one would you choose:

a. replace OEM shocks with Koni Sport shocks

or

b. replace OEM run-flats with "standard" tyres (Goodyear, Bridgestone, Pirelli, etc...)

Thanks in advance.
Andrew

[RickB]

I haven't considered changing shocks, but can tell you that there is a great improvement in ride when changing to standard tires.

[Stevie B]

For 6 months I waited for my 2005 MINI S. For 6 months I read post after post about the harsh ride and need to shed the run flats. I bought in primarily because the '04 MINI S I test drove rode like a tank. It was shod with S-spokes and Goodyear RS-As (unacceptably heavy combo). I picked up my MINI last Friday and the suspension did feel a bit harsh. However the next day I measured the tire pressures (Dunlop SP9000 on R99 wheels) cold and found they were all set to 38 psi! Upon changing to 33 psi all around, the ride is now just barely more harsh than my BMW 325i with sport package (Bridgestone Turanza tires). I don't see what all the fuss is about (now). Maybe with S-spokes and RS-As, but my set up is OK for me. Sure I'd like non run flats and a spare, but I don't think it's the revelation it's made out to be. Possibly it's because I'm used to my Bimmer, which is a rigid ride too. Just my .02.

Cheers!

[andreuroig]

Thanks for your replys.

I have the same opinion as you do, Stevie. In one month, I'll have my brand new Cooper S delivered, and I wonder how the suspension will be. I'v also test driven a Cooper S and the suspension felt quite harsh, so that's why the worries.

I also have a 350Z, and I'm happy with the suspension settings, hard but comfortable at the same time. If the Cooper S feels the same, there won't be any need to change she shocks and/or tyres.

Regards,
Andrew

[pocketrocketowner]

The run flats are 'ultimately' harsh, that is, a big bump will feel like a huge bump.
My wife (the ride quality monitor) was suddenly very happy with the run-flats when I set the rear KONIS on full soft and the fronts on about 25% hard.
Based on that, I would say, go for the shocks as if you you wrong with the tires you can't adjust them.....
Hope this helps