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[eightcount]

I have a bubble in the sidewall of one of my RFTs and instead of replacing the tire I'm thinking of picking up 4 non-RFTs. Tirerack listed 4 options (at least for matching front and rear brands) and I'm thinking of going with the Yokohama S.Drives. I have the 261M 18" wheels from the M Sport package. Other than the obvious "there is no spare", any thoughts, suggestions, considerations? I've had the car a year and only have 6k miles on the RFTs, I don't do much commuting. Mostly trips and joy rides. I'll track it a few times a year.

Thanks

[Red Bread]

Consider the 335i sizes, 225/40/18 and 255/35/18, which opens up a lot more options and will fit fine on the stock 135i rims. An XL load rating, especially on the front will provide a stiffer sidewall too.

[ptack]

If you have the money, the Michelin PS2s are generally found to be the overall best. Ask Brokenvert (Matt) he has them and does autoX and stuff. I run Hankook V12s and they're cheaper, but good. You can do a plus 1 on the tire size if you like. As for flats, you either take your chances with BMW no-show assistance or get a spare donut for the trunk.

[bozola]

Love my Michelins Pilot Sport A/S

[tcd223]

I was loving my BFGoodrich KDW2s. Had them for about 2k miles and they were pretty good in the dry and were good in the rain as well. No hydroplaning in spots where I had hydroplaned in the past with the stock RFTs. Unfortunately I can't tell you how long the tread lasted for. I have a new set on order for next spring.

[Sal@DTMrack.com]

Michelin Pilot Sports are great if you can afford them. If affordability is an issue, The Hankook V12s are good, I personally use the Sumitomo HTR Z III and love them. You sacrifice a little bit of grip but overall there a great quiet tire that will last.

[zamboni]

Originally Posted by eightcount

I have a bubble in the sidewall of one of my RFTs and instead of replacing the tire I'm thinking of picking up 4 non-RFTs. Tirerack listed 4 options (at least for matching front and rear brands) and I'm thinking of going with the Yokohama S.Drives. I have the 261M 18" wheels from the M Sport package. Other than the obvious "there is no spare", any thoughts, suggestions, considerations? I've had the car a year and only have 6k miles on the RFTs, I don't do much commuting. Mostly trips and joy rides. I'll track it a few times a year.

Thanks

I would take it back to the dealer and see if they can do a replacement for free of charge, some of the E90 having the same bubble problem with Turanza tires and BMW take care of it.