MINI2

UBeenMiniD · Nov 24th, 2006, 04:40 PM

Wheels!

Like some of you, I'm also looking to hold on to the 18x7 GP rims and
switch to either 15'', 16'', or 17''. I was thinking along the lines of the lightest rim possible that would be more forgiving than the runflats. I'm gonna need dental work soon with the OEM GP rims and Bay Area roads...

The kind of driving I'm looking to do is all weather street and highway everyday driving + the occasional spirited drive.

My concern is keeping the right offset in all this + a rolling radius consistent with the original setup.

I went to this reference sight for some modelling:
http://www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html" target=_blank
>http://www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html

Several combos could work it seems for either the 15'', 16'', 17'', or even 18''.

You could probably go in 15x6 or 15x7 with 205/60 R15. Some 15'' rim options for this thus far that I understand would work and clear the JCW brakes are:

Kosei K1 TS 12.6 lbs
OZ Ultraleggera 12.0 lbs
Motegi Tracklite 10.4 lbs
Motegi Tracklite 2.0 10.4 lbs

I'd be leaning towards the Tracklites because they are forged and should be stronger. I don't think they're as nice looking as the OZ Ultraleggera's.

Then there's 16x6 or 16x7 with 215/50 R16. In 17x6 or 17x7 there's 205/45 R17.
There you could stick with 18'' and in that case Gabe on MotoringFile.com seemed happy with his 215/35 R18 on O.Z. Ultraleggera's, but these sounded more track oriented. The aspect ratio is even lower at 35, so I see this being bone jarring still.

Also, Alex Mouroulis at the Tire Rack (alex@tirerack.com) suggested going with the 205/55
R15 on a 15'' rim. But I think Alex is thinking of the typical MCS and not the GP. Ride height concerns me with the lowered JCW suspension and GP aero kit.

What could go wrong on the GP with any of these setups? Pros and cons? Will ride height become an even bigger issue? Will offset need to still be at 52 like for the OEM 18''x7''? I'm just trying to figure out if there's anything that could go wrong with this thinking

At this point I'm simply not sure myself. As far as I'm concerned, this is all fishing on my part for the GP. I think a real specialist would know.

Anyone care to jump in with some solid results of their own with their GP? Especially in the small rim diameter size of 15'' or 16'' + let's hear about the offset and tire size.

Appreciate the feedback.

Patrick
GP0660

Tonyt3 · Nov 24th, 2006, 10:05 PM

Its going to be hard if not impossible to find 15 and 16 inch rims that allow room for your larger brake package on the JCW GP. I'd suggest your best choice will be 17"......

JWF · Nov 24th, 2006, 10:14 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Tonyt3 (original)

Its going to be hard if not impossible to find 15 and 16 inch rims that allow room for your larger brake package on the JCW GP. I'd suggest your best choice will be 17"......

what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think)
but as tony said i would go with some 17's

gabe · Nov 24th, 2006, 11:35 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original)

what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think)
but as tony said i would go with some 17's

For what it's worth the 18" Ultraleggeras have a much better ride than stock 17" S-lites with runflats.

humph · Nov 24th, 2006, 11:52 PM

Rota wheels are very light and inexpensive, seem popular with guys on NAM.

UBeenMiniD · Nov 25th, 2006, 03:14 AM

The four 15'' rims I listed WILL clear the JCW brakes.

Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original)

what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think)
but as tony said i would go with some 17's

rkw · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:24 AM

Members Jim Ray/AprilWhine are running OEM 16" X-Lites. See this thread.

Bonnie Scotland · Nov 25th, 2006, 06:45 AM

For the style of driving you intend to do, what difference would having light weight wheels make

JWF · Nov 25th, 2006, 10:04 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by gabe (original)

For what it's worth the 18" Ultraleggeras have a much better ride than stock 17" S-lites with runflats.

true but any super or ultra leggera would the only thing that puts me of the ultraleggera on my car is the cost at over 200 quid a rim + tyre for 17's hence why im going for some oz super tursimo wrc ones i think for the summer next year and the 17's do give that better handeling esp cos our roads over here are crap and 18's and out pot holes

Lorien · Nov 25th, 2006, 12:04 PM

all i can say is . WHY?

having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself)
changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it.

JWF · Nov 25th, 2006, 12:24 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Lorien (original)

all i can say is . WHY?

having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself)
changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it.

i see your point but ive seen a few GPs with diff wheels and some look good its all bout your car thow as if i had one i would go for some oz or bbs so i could fit rolands porsche barke kit

AprilWhine · Nov 25th, 2006, 01:07 PM

I had those wheels on my GP for an autox school, I didn't want to take the chance on damaging the OEM wheels.

GoodFinder · Nov 25th, 2006, 02:33 PM

Hi Patrick. I think I've narrowed my decision to either the BBS RGR or the BBS RV-F (either one, in diamond black, 17" of course) running 215/40/17 tires. These would be my normal "street" wheels for the GP. I know I want 17" (rather than 16") due to brake clearance (in the future) and it immediately gives me greater tire selection (now). And, there's a certain "aura" to the GP that I want to maintain (or even, enhance), which (perhaps emotionally more than objectively) makes we want to go with a high quality forged rather than cast, and from a top-name manufacturer. I've been thinking about this a lot (ask my wife) and I'll be glad when I've decided! Hopefully you'll get even more suggestions ideas comments here, too.

UBeenMiniD · Nov 25th, 2006, 03:55 PM

The idea was less unsprung weight = less effort to turn the wheels = less gas...

The other good thing was quicker acceleration, but then there goes the gas

But more than anything I'm looking for a little more comfort. The ride is simply too harsh for the roads around here. In the U.S., nice pavement is all too rare ... especially in CA where the earth is constantly moving.

Quote: Originally Posted by Bonnie Scotland (original)

For the style of driving you intend to do, what difference would having light weight wheels make

UBeenMiniD · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:00 PM

The ride of the 18'' with runflats is just too harsh for me in the Bay Area. Just brutal.

So I'm looking for a set that will be more forgiving + lighter to help with gas or acceleration. The thought being less weight is a very good thing.

The 18'' are great on brand spanking new pavement or on the track, but on these horrible SF streets and Bay Area streets ... it's just too harsh.

Quote: Originally Posted by Lorien (original)

all i can say is . WHY?

having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself)
changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it.

JWF · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:02 PM

try a set of team dynamics pro race 1's or 1.2's as in 17 they will clear the GP bbk and wont look to odd either and are dam light even with a tyre on them

UBeenMiniD · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:18 PM

Thanks for the tip. What about the tire size? 205/45R17? Offset still at 52?

Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original)

try a set of team dynamics pro race 1's or 1.2's as in 17 they will clear the GP bbk and wont look to odd either and are dam light even with a tyre on them

JWF · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:20 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by UBeenMiniD (original)

Thanks for the tip. What about the tire size? 205/45R17? Offset still at 52?

i know that a mates car has them and (pro race 1.2's 17') and he runs 205/40/r17

not sure about the offset but most places will ask for your car type and you should be ok i think the states place thats good is tyrerack.com

Lorien · Nov 25th, 2006, 04:38 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by UBeenMiniD (original)

The ride of the 18'' with runflats is just too harsh for me in the Bay Area. Just brutal.

So I'm looking for a set that will be more forgiving + lighter to help with gas or acceleration. The thought being less weight is a very good thing.

The 18'' are great on brand spanking new pavement or on the track, but on these horrible SF streets and Bay Area streets ... it's just too harsh.

I fully agree. which is why very close to the time I got my car, I went ahead and replaced my tires to non-runflats. (Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 XL- 205/40YR18 - 86Y) The result is perfect. see my thread here about the change.

http://www.mini2.com/forum/john-coop...ighlight=tires

btw, did I mention I am in Italy? many of the roads here are horrid. I know exactly what you mean. But by just changing the tires the ride is a lot better. It is smooth and fun. I drive fast and truly enjoy my GP. as to not having an extra spare tire: problem solved with Tire Accessories - Continental Tire ContiComfortKit which fits perfectly at the back of the car.

GoodFinder · Nov 25th, 2006, 05:41 PM

You can check out the Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2 at either rimstock.com or teamdynamicsracing.com (perhaps in the Hi Silver, certainly the 17" ... strong and relatively light). That is a good cost-effective solution many have recommended I check out. They are also pretty prompt in answering questions when you submit a website inquiry.

As to tires, for my daily driver duty, I need a set of ultra high performance all season, which is another reason I must drop down to 17" in order to obtain tire selection availability.

Nov 24th, 2006, 04:40 PM	#1
UBeenMiniD MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Aug 2006 Local Time: 07:49 PM Posts: 24 Offline	Wheels for the GP... Wheels! Like some of you, I'm also looking to hold on to the 18x7 GP rims and switch to either 15'', 16'', or 17''. I was thinking along the lines of the lightest rim possible that would be more forgiving than the runflats. I'm gonna need dental work soon with the OEM GP rims and Bay Area roads... The kind of driving I'm looking to do is all weather street and highway everyday driving + the occasional spirited drive. My concern is keeping the right offset in all this + a rolling radius consistent with the original setup. I went to this reference sight for some modelling: http://www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html" target=_blank >http://www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html Several combos could work it seems for either the 15'', 16'', 17'', or even 18''. You could probably go in 15x6 or 15x7 with 205/60 R15. Some 15'' rim options for this thus far that I understand would work and clear the JCW brakes are: Kosei K1 TS 12.6 lbs OZ Ultraleggera 12.0 lbs Motegi Tracklite 10.4 lbs Motegi Tracklite 2.0 10.4 lbs I'd be leaning towards the Tracklites because they are forged and should be stronger. I don't think they're as nice looking as the OZ Ultraleggera's. Then there's 16x6 or 16x7 with 215/50 R16. In 17x6 or 17x7 there's 205/45 R17. There you could stick with 18'' and in that case Gabe on MotoringFile.com seemed happy with his 215/35 R18 on O.Z. Ultraleggera's, but these sounded more track oriented. The aspect ratio is even lower at 35, so I see this being bone jarring still. Also, Alex Mouroulis at the Tire Rack (alex@tirerack.com) suggested going with the 205/55 R15 on a 15'' rim. But I think Alex is thinking of the typical MCS and not the GP. Ride height concerns me with the lowered JCW suspension and GP aero kit. What could go wrong on the GP with any of these setups? Pros and cons? Will ride height become an even bigger issue? Will offset need to still be at 52 like for the OEM 18''x7''? I'm just trying to figure out if there's anything that could go wrong with this thinking At this point I'm simply not sure myself. As far as I'm concerned, this is all fishing on my part for the GP. I think a real specialist would know. Anyone care to jump in with some solid results of their own with their GP? Especially in the small rim diameter size of 15'' or 16'' + let's hear about the offset and tire size. Appreciate the feedback. Patrick GP0660

Nov 25th, 2006, 01:07 PM	#12 (permalink)
AprilWhine Loves the Fuzzy One Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Black Hills S Dakota Local Time: 09:49 PM Posts: 16,791 Offline	I had those wheels on my GP for an autox school, I didn't want to take the chance on damaging the OEM wheels. Global Moderator

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Nov 24th, 2006, 10:05 PM	#2 (permalink)
Tonyt3 Track addict Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Hants Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 6,257 Offline	Its going to be hard if not impossible to find 15 and 16 inch rims that allow room for your larger brake package on the JCW GP. I'd suggest your best choice will be 17"......

Nov 24th, 2006, 10:14 PM	#3 (permalink)
JWF MINI2 Master Join Date: Dec 2004 Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 1,773 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Tonyt3 (original) Its going to be hard if not impossible to find 15 and 16 inch rims that allow room for your larger brake package on the JCW GP. I'd suggest your best choice will be 17"...... what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think) but as tony said i would go with some 17's

Nov 24th, 2006, 11:35 PM	#4 (permalink)
gabe MINI2 Regular Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Chicago, USA Local Time: 10:49 PM Posts: 280 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original) what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think) but as tony said i would go with some 17's For what it's worth the 18" Ultraleggeras have a much better ride than stock 17" S-lites with runflats.

Nov 24th, 2006, 11:52 PM	#5 (permalink)
humph Back To My Old Self Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: In The Wind Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 2,415 Offline	Rota wheels are very light and inexpensive, seem popular with guys on NAM.

Nov 25th, 2006, 03:14 AM	#6 (permalink)
UBeenMiniD MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Aug 2006 Local Time: 07:49 PM Posts: 24 Offline	The four 15'' rims I listed WILL clear the JCW brakes. Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original) what he said as i think the only 15's that can have a bbk are the rally spec ones and they cost a bomb 16's mini state only 2 sets fit over the jcw (the cooper S X lite and cross spoke i think) but as tony said i would go with some 17's

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:24 AM	#7 (permalink)
rkw MINI2 Senior Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: San Francisco, CA Local Time: 08:49 PM Posts: 587 Offline	Members Jim Ray/AprilWhine are running OEM 16" X-Lites. See this thread.

Nov 25th, 2006, 06:45 AM	#8 (permalink)
Bonnie Scotland Gadget Man Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Montrose, Scotland Local Time: 02:49 AM Posts: 1,960 Offline	For the style of driving you intend to do, what difference would having light weight wheels make

Nov 25th, 2006, 10:04 AM	#9 (permalink)
JWF MINI2 Master Join Date: Dec 2004 Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 1,773 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by gabe (original) For what it's worth the 18" Ultraleggeras have a much better ride than stock 17" S-lites with runflats. true but any super or ultra leggera would the only thing that puts me of the ultraleggera on my car is the cost at over 200 quid a rim + tyre for 17's hence why im going for some oz super tursimo wrc ones i think for the summer next year and the 17's do give that better handeling esp cos our roads over here are crap and 18's and out pot holes

Nov 25th, 2006, 12:04 PM	#10 (permalink)
Lorien GP 1986 My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Provincia di Cuneo Local Time: 06:49 AM Posts: 401 Offline	all i can say is . WHY? having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself) changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it.

Nov 25th, 2006, 12:24 PM	#11 (permalink)
JWF MINI2 Master Join Date: Dec 2004 Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 1,773 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Lorien (original) all i can say is . WHY? having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself) changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it. i see your point but ive seen a few GPs with diff wheels and some look good its all bout your car thow as if i had one i would go for some oz or bbs so i could fit rolands porsche barke kit

Nov 25th, 2006, 02:33 PM	#13 (permalink)
GoodFinder MINI2 Regular Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Austin, TX USA Local Time: 10:49 PM Posts: 119 Offline	Hi Patrick. I think I've narrowed my decision to either the BBS RGR or the BBS RV-F (either one, in diamond black, 17" of course) running 215/40/17 tires. These would be my normal "street" wheels for the GP. I know I want 17" (rather than 16") due to brake clearance (in the future) and it immediately gives me greater tire selection (now). And, there's a certain "aura" to the GP that I want to maintain (or even, enhance), which (perhaps emotionally more than objectively) makes we want to go with a high quality forged rather than cast, and from a top-name manufacturer. I've been thinking about this a lot (ask my wife) and I'll be glad when I've decided! Hopefully you'll get even more suggestions ideas comments here, too.

Nov 25th, 2006, 03:55 PM	#14 (permalink)
UBeenMiniD MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Aug 2006 Local Time: 07:49 PM Posts: 24 Offline	The idea was less unsprung weight = less effort to turn the wheels = less gas... The other good thing was quicker acceleration, but then there goes the gas But more than anything I'm looking for a little more comfort. The ride is simply too harsh for the roads around here. In the U.S., nice pavement is all too rare ... especially in CA where the earth is constantly moving. Quote: Originally Posted by Bonnie Scotland (original) For the style of driving you intend to do, what difference would having light weight wheels make

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:00 PM	#15 (permalink)
UBeenMiniD MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Aug 2006 Local Time: 07:49 PM Posts: 24 Offline	The ride of the 18'' with runflats is just too harsh for me in the Bay Area. Just brutal. So I'm looking for a set that will be more forgiving + lighter to help with gas or acceleration. The thought being less weight is a very good thing. The 18'' are great on brand spanking new pavement or on the track, but on these horrible SF streets and Bay Area streets ... it's just too harsh. Quote: Originally Posted by Lorien (original) all i can say is . WHY? having to change for 16" due to winter is one thing (doing so myself) changing otherwise doesnt make much sense to me. just don't get it.

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:02 PM	#16 (permalink)
JWF MINI2 Master Join Date: Dec 2004 Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 1,773 Offline	try a set of team dynamics pro race 1's or 1.2's as in 17 they will clear the GP bbk and wont look to odd either and are dam light even with a tyre on them

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:18 PM	#17 (permalink)
UBeenMiniD MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Aug 2006 Local Time: 07:49 PM Posts: 24 Offline	Thanks for the tip. What about the tire size? 205/45R17? Offset still at 52? Quote: Originally Posted by JWF (original) try a set of team dynamics pro race 1's or 1.2's as in 17 they will clear the GP bbk and wont look to odd either and are dam light even with a tyre on them

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:20 PM	#18 (permalink)
JWF MINI2 Master Join Date: Dec 2004 Local Time: 04:49 AM Posts: 1,773 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by UBeenMiniD (original) Thanks for the tip. What about the tire size? 205/45R17? Offset still at 52? i know that a mates car has them and (pro race 1.2's 17') and he runs 205/40/r17 not sure about the offset but most places will ask for your car type and you should be ok i think the states place thats good is tyrerack.com

Nov 25th, 2006, 04:38 PM	#19 (permalink)
Lorien GP 1986 My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Provincia di Cuneo Local Time: 06:49 AM Posts: 401 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by UBeenMiniD (original) The ride of the 18'' with runflats is just too harsh for me in the Bay Area. Just brutal. So I'm looking for a set that will be more forgiving + lighter to help with gas or acceleration. The thought being less weight is a very good thing. The 18'' are great on brand spanking new pavement or on the track, but on these horrible SF streets and Bay Area streets ... it's just too harsh. I fully agree. which is why very close to the time I got my car, I went ahead and replaced my tires to non-runflats. (Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 XL- 205/40YR18 - 86Y) The result is perfect. see my thread here about the change. http://www.mini2.com/forum/john-coop...ighlight=tires btw, did I mention I am in Italy? many of the roads here are horrid. I know exactly what you mean. But by just changing the tires the ride is a lot better. It is smooth and fun. I drive fast and truly enjoy my GP. as to not having an extra spare tire: problem solved with Tire Accessories - Continental Tire ContiComfortKit which fits perfectly at the back of the car.

Nov 25th, 2006, 05:41 PM	#20 (permalink)
GoodFinder MINI2 Regular Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Austin, TX USA Local Time: 10:49 PM Posts: 119 Offline	You can check out the Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2 at either rimstock.com or teamdynamicsracing.com (perhaps in the Hi Silver, certainly the 17" ... strong and relatively light). That is a good cost-effective solution many have recommended I check out. They are also pretty prompt in answering questions when you submit a website inquiry. As to tires, for my daily driver duty, I need a set of ultra high performance all season, which is another reason I must drop down to 17" in order to obtain tire selection availability.

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