130 runflat options

[S3_Graham]

I've a 130, with runflats, and when i need tyres i'll be looking if i can to get rid of them as i've heard they are even better without runflats.

Only problem being that i dont have space for a spare wheel even if i wanted one.

what are the options?

- stick with runflats
- chance it with nothing
- keep some tyre weld and a pump in the boot

anyone have experience of doing any of the above, or if it does make a difference to ride/handling?

[Bugeyeandy]

I've not had run flats on my Mini for 3 years now and don't have a spare tyre, I carry two cans of tyre weld and an electric inflator that so far I haven't ever had to use.

Depends how many miles you do and how bad being stranded at the roadside for a couple of hours would be, there's no way I'd change a tyre on the hard shoulder of a motorway these days anyway. Have seen too many sleepy lorry drivers drifting over onto the hard shoulder to consider doing that so no time saved for me anyway.

The ride is a lot better and the choice and price of non-run flats is generally much better.

I'd change over but if I was doing 20-30k a year for work I'd probably keep the run flats for a bit of peace of mind.

[Gaygle]

Many people do replace their Runflats with normal tyres. However if you use tyre weld as a substitute for a spare tyre, be aware of that A) IIRC the tyre weld may well damage the tyre pressure sensor/valve B) The you may not be able to get a vulcanised repair on the tyre (the £15 repairs) if you use tyre weld, so you would need to replace the tyre.

[ghibbett]

I ditched the run flats on my 130i M-Sport. Improved the ride and traction considerably (you will notice a big difference). No problems with TPS, although I didnt get a puncture.

[swanny71]

I've got a couple of cans of tyre weld and an electric air compressor in the boot.

No probs with TPMS as it works via ABS sensors, not a sensor in the tyre.

And yes the difference is very noticable.

[S3_Graham]

hmm need to look into it. Only had new runflats on it a few weeks but certainly look to replace them at next opportunity. Got goodyears on it atm and not very impressed with traction!

[VerySideways]

The Goodyear runflats are horrendous.

If you decide to stick with runflats the Dunlops and Bridgestones seem to be about the best.

Personally i'd recommend ditching the runflats. You can get all sorts of tyres for different prices, but even Michelin PS3s are cheaper than runflats! Recommend Conti SC2/3, Goodyear Asymmetric, Michelin PS2/3.

You can carry a spare from an E46 (17") with a jack and wheel chock and brace (i have these), and/or a compressor and tyre foam (i have these too!). All that lot still weighs less than the runflats and i get better ride and traction