I've got the TSW X brace. Since the car came with them on I can't say how well it improved the car. But I road along in a couple other MINI's during autocross and they didn't have a cross brace. The difference is very noticeable! The only thing I don't like is the TSW brace scrapes on everything. Speed bumps...scrape! High angle driveway....scrape! Does anyone who has a full cage also run a cross brace? Once I go full cage I'm considering removing it.
You'll notice it on the track and autox, no one will argue that. I have a four point but not full cage, and that makes a big difference on the track, a full cage would be even better. On the street, no difference.
Jason @ ILLICIT MOTORSPORTS did the cage, added three inch extension to steering column and installed quick disconnect with Momo steering wheel, and mounted the seat to fit me. I highly recommend him.
I have the K-Brace on my R53. I like it and the car seems a lot more planted now than it was before the installation. I like that it is bolted together and that I don't have to worry about welds breaking over time. Of course, the same thing might be said about the bolts or locknuts getting sheared off but I doubt that that will ever happen. The brace is sturdy and is well-constructed of quality steel. The holes are already pre-drilled and the unit comes with the necessary bolts and locknuts. It arrives in in pieces so that a small package can be easily sent worldwide...thus saving on shipping costs. I had looked at the TSW X-Brace before getting the K-Brace. I am happy with my purchase...better construction, ease of installation, and value, IMHO.
No offense, but a weld is going to be more stable than bolts. That brace has too many places where it can flex IMHO. My fourpoint is bolted in, eventually I'll have it welded in. I'd be hard braced (pun intended) to by a chassis brace that wasn't welded.
The only reason it is a bolt together erector set like kit is so it can be easily shipped & that makes sense for the folks selling them, not as much for the folks using them. Once installed welding all of the joints together would be the best way as has just been said. I just wanted to add my .02.....
I don't track my car as much as many here do [2, sometimes 3 2-day hpdes a year], and I don't autocross, either. I do go to MOTD and travel the twisties, though. The K-Brace is fine for my car and it works for me and my car. That said, it all boils down to a matter of choice and that was the one I made for me, my car, and my wallet. Given the huge selection from which to choose, it becomes a matter of choice. If any one brace was the best out there, there would be no competition from which to choose and everyone would be buying just that brand. Just my 2c.
Having the brace welded will pay dividends for you. Think about doing that & I bet you a donut you'll feel an improvement. I agree all things we do come down to personal choice. I'm going to try a belt & suspenders & see if it helps me in the twisty bits.
This is the one you want. It stiffens EVERYTHING, some guys even don't have to use Viagra after installation. Rumor has it adding the fire extinguisher is good for another 15 WHP and 10 cool points.
Wow what a piece of carp that is. You know what they say about fools & there money, that applies here. ut: How can someone sell a piece like that with a straight face?