Run Flat tyres

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Tue 7 Dec 2004 19:02
Run Flat tyres - engineer
I run a BMW 530d, fitted with 18 inch rims and Dunlop Sport 245/40 run flat tyres.

Any one had any experience of replacing these tyres? I'm looking for the lowest noise / best ride in spite of the tyres giving a hard ride.

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Tue 7 Dec 2004 19:06
Run Flat tyres - Pugugly {P}
What are these like in real life. When I ordered my 5 I didn't opt for them on mine following HJ's test. Would you have to change the rims as well if you were specifying "normal" tyres ?
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Wed 8 Dec 2004 19:26
Run Flat tyres - engineer
Thanks for your reply - the simple answer to your question is 'awful'!!

My only criticism of an otherwise superb executive car is the ride quality.
The ride is hard, harsh and noisy on any surface except a smooth tarmac motorway. The handling feels jerky and requires considerable concentration to maintain a straight line.
I think my only option is to switch to 16 inch wheels with much deeper profile tyres, but that will be costly, i.e. new rims plus new tyres.
Also I've now done about 25000 miles and been shopping around for replacement tyres - guess what.... the 245/40 R18 run flats are about £250 EACH !!
BMW sales have not been very sympathetic either - they say that the big wheels look better and help resale value - not much help to me day in day out when I spend 5 to 6 hours in the driving seat.

I'd appreciate any experience or advice from anyone in a similar dilemma.
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Wed 8 Dec 2004 19:38
Run Flat tyres - Pugugly {P}
Mine runs on the std. 16" rims. It rides almost as well as the previous model (and I mean almost). Handling feels a bit more unfocused If you know what I mean. All in all its ok. I'll check out the profile for you later on.
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Wed 8 Dec 2004 22:03
Run Flat tyres - Simon R
The reviews seem to suggest its the run flats that are the problem, not the wheel size (although an 18 is always going to give a harder ride than a 16).

I guess they are special rims, so you won't be able to just switch to normal 18 inch tyres. The car mags often run ads for firms that supply wheel and tyre combinations which will probably set you back about £1000 for a decent set of 17s (but at least if you keep the old ones you'll be able to sell the new ones when you get rid of the car).

Good luck - let us know how you get on.
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