GBMINI#3

You will remember that I bought new tires for GBMINI#3 a few weeks ago – Avon 205/55R16s, selected from TireRack because of high ratings in comfort, noise, etc.

Well, after a few weeks of driving with them, I can report:
– yes, they are quieter than my previous Pirelli Pzero Neros, and
– they are also an easier ride, slightly smoothing the smaller bumps & hiccups of typical Massachusetts roads

HOWEVER:
I’ve noticed a significant difference in handling when taking corners at speed (particularly noticeable with off-ramps at 45+); the car seems a little unstable, as if it is sliding.
There’s no tire squeal and of course the cars suspension is unchanged – so I’m forced to conclude that the new tire sidewalls are flexing more than the old Pirellis (and of course much more than stock runflats) and that is the effect I’m feeling … it’s a bit disturbing when, for the last four years, I’ve been used to no roll and a perfectly stable behaviour when taking those same corners at the same speeds.
I find I’m now taking corners at slightly lower speeds – 40-45 instead of 50 for example on an off-ramp I take every day …

So I have improved my ride comfort, but at the expense of some perceived handling – important to emphasise that I don’t think I’ve actually lost much grip, but it feels worse/wrong. It doesn’t quite feel like a MINI should feel any more – it’s probably similar to switching from a runflat equipped MINI to one on stock 15″ non-runflats.

Conclusion: I don’t recommend these tires unless you really hate the hard ride, and you never take corners at high speed (but then, why drive a MINI!) … I can see myself needing to do something about this in the next few months!