run flats...pros/cons...yuck? let me hear!

rickharrison · 05-10-2011, 03:49 PM

I don't carry that inflatable spare, since I am running 17 inch wheels.

My Michelin Sport Cups are nearly baffed, and have been toying with buying the above for added "safety".

Comments please!

Thanks fellas.

Litesonic · Litesonic's Garage

AAA. and buy the tires you want.

Aufgeladen944 · 05-10-2011, 04:47 PM

I remember hearing that the spare tire was actually part of the crash structure, and you have to have it in for DE events. I carry it with me, even though I'd call AAA if there was any real problem. I just don't trust the spare enough to ride on.

Run flats are usually good tires, but don't ride as well. They're also more expensive, and without a TPMS system you can't always tell if they're "flat." I'd consider them, but only on a newer car with a TPMS system.

Pete R · Pete R's Garage

From what I understand runflats require a special rim so that may also be a consideration too. I don't carry a spare either. I have the compressor and a plug kit. Haven't ever used it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aufgeladen944

I remember hearing that the spare tire was actually part of the crash structure, and you have to have it in for DE events.

good info. I did not know that. I may have to put mine back in.

Dantilla · 05-10-2011, 05:39 PM

Run flats are very heavy. Excessive unsprung weight is why the Porsche factory will not use them.

Without suspension being set up for them, it will have a harsh ride.

With aftermarket suspension bits and a proper alignment, you may be satisfied, but on a car that weighs less than 3000 pounds, the ride will be noticeably harsh.

YMMV.

mayPOR944 · mayPOR944's Garage

Not worth the money and there a pain to instal!l!

Oct · Oct's Garage

Horrible ride, noisy, heavy, expensive.
In the UK it is illegal to fit them to cars which don't have the sensor system to alert you to when it is 'flat'
Apart from that they are great

looneybin · 05-11-2011, 04:19 PM

I carry a AAA card and a can of "fix a flat"
I can't get a jack under my car without being up on a 2x4 anyway

924RACR · 05-12-2011, 04:23 AM

Dantilla's right on - suspension must be properly matched to them, for one - spring rates, shock damping.

Just don't go there

rickharrison · 05-12-2011, 03:22 PM

Once again, great feedback.

CAA (AAA here) + the tires I want it is.

Thanks!

andyshoun · andyshoun's Garage

Hey man, I work for Michelin. From a company side I'd love for you to buy a set of run flats. You must have an air pressure monitoring system added, otherwise you'll ruin a low pressure tire without any warning.

From a personal side, the only benefit you get is being able to drive a short distance when you would otherwise get stuck. This capability might have saved Ennis Cosby's life.

The downsides of run flats have been described in earlier replies; weight, cost, harsh ride.

Personally; AAA, fix a flat, a small compressor, tire patch kit are cheaper and also allow you to be that good Samaritan who helps other people.

badcoupe · 05-13-2011, 02:39 PM

I had them on my passat with no tpms and when doing the usual tire press check during a service I found that one of them only had 10psi in it. I have no idea how long it had been that way. They are heavy and ride stiff but I loved the handling compared to previous tires and the ones now installed since I wore those out