Bridgestone run flat tyres - no problem there then

[1340fxd]

I sent the following email to Bridgestone:

"Hi, I have bought a 2005 BMW Z4 2.0L which runs on Bridgestone run flat tyres (225/50 R16 92V). I and many members of the Z4 forum find these tyres result in a very hard ride, a great deal of road noise and tramlining. As no other manufacturer makes RFT for my wheel size, my only option is to replace the tyres with non-run flat. That is unless Bridgestone is about to release a better tyre for my car or if you have another suggestion please? Thanks"

You're going to love the reply:

"Thank you for providing valuable feedback on your experiences with your 225/50 R16 RE050bz. We have not had any other product issues with this tyre.

We would not recommend that you change to non-RFTs. This is due to the suspension of your car, and other aspects affecting the wheel geometry, may have to be changed accordingly. The RFT design is also an important safety feature. There is also the added factor that cars fitted with RFT do not come with spare tyres which could make dealing with punctures more difficult.

We would strongly recommend retaining the original equipment tyres as they are developed in conjunction with BMW for your car model.

I hope that this has answered your questions. If you have any other queries please do not hesitate to get back in contact."

So clearly all in my imagination and no problem at all.

Just been quoted £300 for four Falkens fitted :roll:

 

[Frederik]

haha - Don't think I've ever seen more BS in an e-mail!

While you're at it you should upgrade to 17" or 18". 19" is a bit over the top if you ask me, but the jury is still out Do you have the Potenzas?

 

[skelters]

Didn't you know that tramlining, roadnoise and hard ride is a feature.

It's a wonder BMW don't charge extra for it!

Bin the Runflats and you'll never look back.

I'm with Frederick on the 18" wheels too.

Try FleaBay or on here. Someone might have a nice set going cheap.

 

[1340fxd]

I am actually very happy with the look of my standard wheels but their size (225/50 R16) leaves me with no tyre choice at all for RFT as I actually would like to stay with RFTs and try the Michelins as have seen good reports about them on this forum. However, Frederik those wheels look very nice - what make / type and size are they?

 

[Frederik]

1340fxd, I'd go for the CSL rims, although I'm v happy with mine. Can't recall what they're called, I'll look it up.

 

[gannet]

They are design no 203 - I have them on mine - love them

see here

 

[pvr]

It is very scary that they put that nonsense actually in writing. Geometry??? What is that all about?

 

[1340fxd]

Gannet, those are lovely wheels - are they the same size front and back? Mine is a 2.0L and the original wheels/tyres are all the same size - while changing should I go to larger (wider) rear wheels?

Also, am I correct that you have fitted Michelin RFT and are very happy with them or at least they are better than the Bridgestones?

 

[gannet]

Gannet, those are lovely wheels - are they the same size front and back? Mine is a 2.0L and the original wheels/tyres are all the same size - while changing should I go to larger (wider) rear wheels?

Also, am I correct that you have fitted Michelin RFT and are very happy with them or at least they are better than the Bridgestones?

They are the same diameter - 18", staggered setup - 8.5" wide at the back and 8" wide at the front.

Yes I'm on of the Michelin RFT (they're branded ZP for Zero Pressure) and they are worlds better than the Bridgestones no more tramlining or crashy ride - noticed the difference just driving off of the tyre fitters forecourt Even the Mrs noticed and she never knows what Im talking about :lol: