Non run flats for 335i M Sport Tourer

[sburns]

My original run flats (on stadard 18" wheels) are nearing the end of their life and it has been suggested that non-run flats give a better ride as well as better handling. Any experience and/or suggestions as to the best options to fit as non run flat replacements.
Many Thanks
Stuart

[roofer]

I'm on Pirelli Zero/Nero's.

Impressed with grip and wear, even after a day of abuse on track, they still have life.

[dxb335d]

Im on my 2nd set of Non-runflats. The ride quality is improved ten-fold. The handling is transformed too. The car goes from a skittish nervous road car, to a well balanced road holding machine.

[sburns]

What tyre are you using dxb335d?

[VerySideways]

I've just ditched Goodyear NCT5 runflats and a mate has just ditched Bridgestone runflats and we've both gone to the Goodyear Eagle Asymmetrics - the ones which came out on top in both Autocar and EVO.
Frankly i think runflats can be dangerous, particularly in the wet.

Anyway, have a read:
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Article/2007-evo-tyre...
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Article/2007-autocar-...

[dxb335d]

sburns said:

What tyre are you using dxb335d?

Currently on Conti Sport contact 3's.

[Andrew_M]

Can you help.

A colleague of mine is looking to replace his tyres on his 120d. He has 225/40/18 NCT5 and 205/45/18 NCT5. He wants to go with a non run flat which is fine for the rear, but non existent for the fronts.

Would you recommend fitting non runflat, 235 & 215 respectively or do you have other suggestions?

[VerySideways]

I had those sizes and replaced with 225/40R18 all round.

I went for Goodyear Eagle Asymmetric @ £104 each, if he wants to save some money he could go with Falken 452 (or is it 453?) at about £75 each.

My set up works very well - fantastic grip wet and dry, nice and quiet, and hugely improved ride too.

[Andrew_M]

Interesting! I recognise your 130i, are you on Northloop?!?!

[VerySideways]

No - long time PH'er and short time babybmw.net'er but very very happy with the car. So happy i sold my 911 and haven't looked back.

[Andrew_M]

Ah ok, lovely car all the same

[Ranger 6]

There's a mine of info for tyres on www.bmwland.co.uk as well as www.babybmw.net

[JakeR]

Those of you that have gone to non run-flats, have you changed the wheels too or will std BMW Msport wheels take 'normal' tyres?

[Ranger 6]

Yes, the wheels will take normal tyres.

[Andrew_M]

I have been told, by BMW, that your flat tyre light stays on?!?!?!

[VerySideways]

Andrew_M said:

I have been told, by BMW, that your flat tyre light stays on?!?!?!

What a load of rubbish. When you change tyres (RFT or otherwise) you simply re-initialise the system. It works on rotation speed not actual tyre pressue and certainly not on tyre construction!

[Andrew_M]

Thanks mate, I think he is going with your set up, seems great value. As for the dealer -

[Ranger 6]

Andrew_M said:

I have been told, by BMW, that your flat tyre light stays on?!?!?!

It's idiot dealers like that who perpetuate that sort of bks. People take it as an authoritative statement because of where it comes from.

[Andrew_M]

Got the tyres fitted 2nd time lucky.

He decided to have x4 fitted as the fronts only had a bit left. When he returned to the office with x4 225/40/18 Eagle F1 GSD3, I pointed out the subtle difference between that and the eagle f1 asymmetric he should have had fitted.

A quick trip back and they replaced them with the ones he asked for in the first place, and no extra charge. £118 / corner inc.

[jonno_]

Just as a footnote to this thread - I'd encourage all BMW drivers replacing run-flats to swap for "normal" rubber (plus spacesaver from the dealer for emergencies)

I've driven a variety of models with RFTs and there isn't one that won't be transformed (IMO) with a decent set of PS2s or Proxes.
Just my 2p.