High performance tires are always going to be noisy because the big tread blocks have solid patches grabbing on to asphalt. If you want quieter tires, they need to be higher profile as well as have smaller tread blocks. Of the big treadblock tires I've used that have lower noise, I have had good experience with Continental tires. Seems maybe their rubber is a bit more compliant. Otherwise, since I don't track my car anymore and I live in a fairly wet climate area, I use high performance all-season (read 3 season) tires. Yokohama Avid Envigors have been the highest quality tire I have ever used. Besides the reasonable price, the tires mount right on my rims and the tire guy was totally surprised he didn't have to add any weights when balancing them. Since I am only doing spirited street driving, I don't think I have hit the limits of the tire, though I do notice less grip in hard cornering transitions (tight S curves) .
The overall quietest tires I am using are my winter tires. Narrower wheels, 55 profile, and very soft tread pattern. Really mushy handling and low grip in dry conditions though.
Good luck. I usually dread shopping for tires. There is so much feedback in our MINI's suspensions that we feel all the variables in tires, even within tire brands. The balance each of us need is always subjective.
I've used the Conti DW's and thought they were a really good tire and very quiet. I'm not sure they make them anymore, replaced by the ExtremeContact Sport.
Also, 215/45-17 work really well on my minis.
And for a bit more $$, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S in 215/45/17 is a really, really good tire and very quiet, also.
Currently running these on my 2009 JCW Clubman.
Couldn't go wrong with either the ExtremeContact Sport or the PS 4S for a comfortable, quiet, rain-friendly max performance daily driver summer tire.
Hey Lee, I did the same on my German bread van. Went from a 225-40-18 to a 225-45-17. Having the the extra sidewall is nice. The ride is better for sure.
I'm using Continental DWS 06 tires now. A very nice smooth riding quiet tire. Works great in the rain, although it won't match a HP summer tire in the dry.
All tires need to be rotated to keep them wearing well & to keep them quiet. I do mine every 3,000 miles.
Thank guys. I guess it's about finding balance. I am hoping I can get some tires and rims before the re-71 are used up so I can save them for fun runs. I don't want to sacrifice to much handling.
Like x 3
