Questions from new MC owner

[boozdog]

Hello I'm a newbie here, I bought my first Mini last week and have been on the forum since , but find myself getting confused with contrasting views here.


I'm wanting to improve the handling on corners.(I rarely get out of London so it isn't high speed cornering)

I am planning some 17" wheels (BK racing 299 in Hi-Black) and Toyo T1-Rs
but am not sure which to add from:

a upper strut brace and/or a lower strut bace
or
a anti roll bar (front or rear)
or
some performance springs (like the look of the M7s at essentialmini)

any input is appreciated, thanks

[Root Ginger]

A strut brace improves turn in and rigidity. Be careful what one you choose as most make little difference. Lower brace alledgedly achieves more than the upper.

Rear anti roll bar reduces understeer and can increase oversteer.

Springs lower ride height improving looks, make the ride stiffer which can be more uncomfortable depending on what you like and are used to. Reduces body roll through corners.

I'd say install the wheels and tyres, get used to how it drives and then take your pick from what you think will improve the car for you. What do you think the car is lacking or where would you want to improve it.

[snid]

The easiest and best handling upgrade, after tires, is the rear anti roll bar.

Strut braces probably won't do much.

The front anti roll bar is really not something you want to mess with...

"Performance" springs are often done more for looks than handling. A well designed package of springs and dampers can easily improve handling. Mismatched springs and dampers may make things look impressive, but not much else.

I've got the JCW suspension upgrade's springs and dampers, the small front anti roll bar from the Cooper's sports suspension (not sports suspension plus), and a big adjustable rear anti roll bar (helix). Works for me!