Two days after the tires went on the MINI and I'm feeling the love. Joining the itemized list of paid services at the tire shop was a 4-wheel alignment. What a difference $60 + tax makes. Things weren't uncomfortable before, but now the ride is smooth like my Cannondale. The response for acceleration (especially while the wheels are turned), braking, and handling are incredibly improved. The primary benefit is increased agility to avoid potholes, to which I'm now overly sensitive. This is mostly due to the heretofore mentioned cost of remedying a good rim smack.
The credit for the new grip goes to what amounts to a compromise, but one I'm willing to live with. As much as I'd love to ring some undersized Pilots on the alloy corners, the beloved 330i went through so many Z-rated tires that I've been scarred for some time. Heap on the price of gas and speed has given way to 6th gear efficiency.
When all was said and done, I went with some Continental Run-Flats from Tire Rack. Prior customers have rated them well and they were among the better deals for matching tire sizes on my stock 16s. And why the run-flats? I have to admit this was a matter of security. I've got 37500 miles on a car less than two years old; I drive across country more than my fair share. I decided that if I didn't have to pay a huge premium, and I could hold onto the sport grip, it sure would be nice not to be stranded in the middle of the country with no spare.
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