I'm trying to think of some Simple ways( at first) of how to lessen the load of my future Mini Club.. so a random question here, Does anyone know or have calculated how much weight would be save if the spare wheel and accompanying tools were to be removed ? (I'm a city guy and I'll have run-flats on so this shouldn't be an issue) any other ideas of simple weight reduction techniques and stratagems.. LOL Thanks. Other then me eating less doughnuts that is ! (Com on you know someone was going to suggest it !) :donut1: hehe...
Most OEM wheels are heavy. After market can be lighter. The rear seat delete is another option, but not sure you want to do that in a Clubman. Jim
I was just about to post this link, but noticed you beat me to the pun: Nutrisystem® - Official Site -Diet Plans, Weight Loss Programs, Diet Programs, Lose Weight You could do a Braile battery (lightweight battery), but it reduces available cranking amps (harder to start the car when it is cold and when the battery ages a bit) and, depending on the battery location, could be removing weight from the back end of the car where, IMHO, the MINI could use a bit more weight. I drove a Clubby in an Auto-X course and loved the way I could waggle the back end for more rotation in quick turns. Going to lighter wheels and tires (ditch the run-flats) will make the biggest difference in handling and feel, IMHO, for a street driver. Everyone always emphasizes that reducing unsprung weight is the most important thing to do and this is as unsprung as it gets!
Thanks guys all great ideas !! I appreciate the help.... Are the JCW Factory 17 &/or 18's a heavier wheel then whats after market for same gen size ? I might take them off (orig JCW wheels) anyway just to keep them pristine for resale value.
Aftermarket wheels of the same size can be heavier or lighter, based on the design. Lighter wheels are often more fragile (more likely to sustain pot-hole damage, for example), so factory wheels tend towards the heavier side of things. IMHO, the factory wheels are a good balance for street driving performance, durability and style. On the track, I much prefer a 16" or 17" wheel in a lightweight design. BTW: Runflats are HELLA heavy! Putting on normal rubber will feel like switching from combat boots to ballet slippers.
Wow didn't know there was that much of a deference in weight. Never used them before. I know that high torque Front Wheel Drive cars perform better and can reduce the effects of torque steer (To gen audience notice I wrote effect of TS not torque steer itself) with a stronger or reinforced side wall tire. If I do decide to switch from run flats will the tire pressure warning/indication system be effected? If so can it be bypassed ? I'm the kind of guy that a stay lit indicator light or continuous computer warning will bug me.. And again thanks for the input agranger !
Oh OK cool ! I was under the impression that the sensors only worked with run-flat rubber. That's good to know :idea: Thanks bro !