2005 cooper s chilli pack - what is correct 16" non run lat tyre size?

[One desi]

We are considering put 16" non run flat tyres on our 2005 cooper s chilli pack car with LSD (don't know if an of the above makes a difference).

I'll admit to having no clue as to what tyre size to use when buying the 16" alloys so could someone please tell me.

Also, if we stick with the 17"s then what non run flat tyre size should we but?

Thanks in advance

[marque]

Hi ya

Normaly on a standard 16" mini wheel 195/55/16
Normaly on a standard 17" mini wheel 205/45/17
These sizes are the same run flat or normal construction it's the circumference you are worried about

Have a read of this thread very helpfull everything you will need to know about wheels and tires and also images of wheel options
http://www.mini2.com/forum/faq.php?f...wheel_fitments

[One desi]

Thx very much for the info it's nice and simple for me to understand.
I did read that thread but I easily get confused with tyres and rims so your advice is exactly what I wanted to know.

I keep reading about the dramatic difference non run flats make but I wonder if it really is dramatic?

[Caveman]

When switching to non-runflat tires on 16" wheels, many owners fit 205/50-16 tires.

[One desi]

Quote: Originally Posted by Caveman (original)

When switching to non-runflat tires on 16" wheels, many owners fit 205/50-16 tires.

Hi - do you know why that would be the case?

Does it not upset the rolling radius (Ive been doing some reading this afternoon and think I understand the RR)

[Cooper S Jon]

tyre calculator..

Tyre Size Calculator - Changing Tyres - Etyres

[Caveman]

Quote: Originally Posted by One desi (original)

Hi - do you know why that would be the case?

Does it not upset the rolling radius?

Fitting wider tires means more rubber on the road ... improved grip.

Although wider, 205/50-16 tires have a lower profile than 195/55-16 tires which makes their rolling radius only 1.5% less, well within the recommended ±3% variation.

[One desi]

I think a plan is forming but could I ask when buying tyres is there much in it if I go Michelin/continental/Bridgestone/Goodyear?

I know everyone has a preference but is there one stand out all year tyre for 16" rims?

[mab01uk]

Don't think there is much in it for the top brands but these magazine tyre tests are sometimes helpful:
Tyre Test 2011 | Products | Auto Express

Auto Express - Total Tyre Guide

[One desi]

Could I ask one more question - is there any reason not to use 205 50 17 tyres on the existing rims?

The reason I ask is that on one of the tyre calculators it shows moving to 205 50 17 non run flats from 205 45 17's improves the "comfort factor" by 80%

[Caveman]

Quote: Originally Posted by One desi (original)

Could I ask one more question - is there any reason not to use 205 50 17 tyres on the existing rims?

The reason I ask is that on one of the tyre calculators it shows moving to 205 50 17 non run flats from 205 45 17's improves the "comfort factor" by 80%

A 205/50-17 fitment exceeds the recommended ±3% variation from stock.

If you want more sidewall you need to go with 215/45-17.

[One desi]

Thx, I'm a little confused which way to go as a good friend suggested the 205/50 as being within limits, glad I asked

Am I right in assuming more side wall make the ride softer and if I go with 215's then the tyres won't catch in the arches but I guess the steering will get heavier?

[Caveman]

Quote: Originally Posted by One desi (original)

Am I right in assuming more side wall make the ride softer and if I go with 215's then the tyres won't catch in the arches but I guess the steering will get heavier?

As long as you're on stock suspension and running wheels with offsets close to OEM you won't have any problems with 215/45-17 rubbing.

Why not stick with a 205/45-17 fitment ... switching from runflats to conventional tires will make the ride softer.

[One desi]

I can't seem to find this tyre calculator thing now but it had a factor rating for comfort and I guess I was trying to work out what is the best way of improving comforting/reducing jitter whilst staying on 17"s as this would help keep costs down.

The car is standard and will remain that way and I can't seem to find a decent set of whit 16" rims hence the look at the alternative.

I read a lot about the ride improving from run flats to non run flats but trying to quantify it is hard and I want to get the biggest improvement I can.