Alternative to BMW runflat tyres
The problem with Runflat tyres
Many people have complained about the ride quality of
runflat tyres on their new BMW's. The thicker sidewalls
of the RFT don't do much to absorb bumps in the road
and they're also very expensive to replace and impossible
to repair. There is an alternative though, you can
change all four tyres to conventional tyres.
Update: Feb 2010. Since we wrote this report,
it appears that things have improved with regard
to run flat tyre repairs. See our article on run flat tyre repairs
for details
Alternative to BMW runflat tyres
If you decide to change your RFTs for conventional
tyres, the first problem you will encounter is that
there is no room to carry a spare wheel. So what do
you do if you have a puncture? The answer is to carry
a 12v compressor or foot pump and a can of gunk or
tyre weld. If you experience a puncture, simply fill
the tyre with the tyre weld and re-inflate with the
pump.
Cost to replace 4 runflat tyres
Cost to replace 4 runflat tyres with conventional
tyres
Pros / Cons of changing to non RFTs
+ You will save lots of money on new tyres and
puncture repairs are a lot cheaper than a new tyre
+ Smoother ride and handling. BMW M cars do not have
run flat tyres. This should tell you what BMW itself
thinks of these tyres for sports cars
+ The tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) on a
BMW monitors rotational speed, so it will still work
with conventional tyres and will warn you of significant
loss of pressure
- You will have to stop to deal with punctures. This
is the main benefit of RFTs
- Tyre blowouts can't be repaired at the roadside.
If that should happen you're going to have to call
your own breakdown service. Don't expect BMW assistance
to help you with this one. Realistically though, how
often do you get a blowout?
- You will have to inform your insurance company.
Changing the tyres should not affect your premium,
but it's always best to inform your insurance company.
This way they can't wriggle out of any claims you
might make
Which tyres?
Many people moving to conventional tyres recommend
changing to Falken
452's or Goodyear
F1 asymmetrics
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