Softer ride

[Ukrobotman]

Hi folks, I’ve recently bought a 2013 Z4. It’s got nice big 19” wheels and run flat tyres but, I live in the country with orrible potholes. I’m finding a harsh ride! Thinking of getting a second set of wheels and tyres. Smaller wheels and thicker tyres to equal the overal diameter of my existing tyres. I’m thinking 16” wheels would suit.
What should I be looking for? Are all Z4 wheels the same, any advice ?
Steve

 

[Gaffa22]

Just getting rid of the run flats will make a big difference.
Don't think you'll find any 16" wheels but 17" are quite common, and with non run flats would give a pretty plush ride

 

[Ukrobotman]

Are all Z4 wheels the same fitting? Same pcd and width?

 

[buzyg]

18 inch and none run flats, should do the trick.. Plenty to choose from too. 16 or 17 inch will look lost. If you do go for smaller wheels be sure your brakes will fit behind them. :wink:

 

[rally-chris]

Don’t overlook the shock absorbers on your car also - if they are the original parts they may not be performing at their best after 15 years. Even if they still pass an MOT test the level of damping may be reduced.

Chris

 

[philbo909]

Don’t overlook the shock absorbers on your car also - if they are the original parts they may not be performing at their best after 15 years. Even if they still pass an MOT test the level of damping may be reduced.

Chris

2013, so only 5 years old

 

[Smartbear]

Are all Z4 wheels the same fitting? Same pcd and width?

Hi, no they’re not all the same-the e85/86 M cars have different offsets. Not 100% sure but I think the e89 uses different offsets to the earlier models as well?
I fitted bmw 290 alloys (17”) with non rf tyres & it rides like a limousine compared to the standard 19” rf combo

Rob

 

[Ukrobotman]

Rob, thanks for that advice, tell me more about the wheels and tyres your bought. We’re they both new.
Was it a straight swap. What tyres did you fit and what size etc
I spoke to a chap at my local tyre garage who said changing to smaller size with bigger tyres might upset the handling etc. To keep everything correct the overal diameter of the runflats should be the same size of the replacements otherwise the gearing and speedo will be out.