[AusF20/F48]

I have been reading the threads about which tire(tyre) to choose.

I have to replace my full set in the coming weeks as they are getting near to the end of their legal life

My dilemma is that whilst searching for new tires one thing keeps arising.
The debate over Run flat or non run flat.

I have considered that there are some benefits to RF tires, however they are generally a harder ride and slightly less reactive in the wet for the same tire pattern in a non RF and are not that readily available, so I am leaning towards Non RF.

The downside with non RF is that I have to carry a air pump and repair kit. (no big issue)
I have the M Sport, so I have 225/40R18 88Y on the front and 245/35R18 88Y on the rear. This is where the problem arises.

Here in Australia, if I want to go for RF tyres of the same rating I am really restricted to Pirelli P Zero to have the same tread patterns front and rear.

From the reviews I have read, the Pirelli are not as good as the Michelin PSS or PS3.

To keep to the OEM theme I should fit RF, however I cannot get a matched pattern with Michelin RF. This means that if I want Michelin with the same tread pattern I have to opt for non RF namely Pilot Super Sport or Pilot Sport 3.

As my outlay is going to be somewhere north of $1600.00 for the 4 tyres plus fitting and wheel alignment (depending on the choice)
I am trying to make the best informed decision.

I am looking for some help!!!

My question is

Has anyone fitted either Pirelli or Michelin NRF tyres after the original RF OEMs on a similar set up as mine.

Or has anyone got another suggested brand and type they recommend

[ovekvam]

Isn't the M135i fit with Michelin PSS in exactly that size?
If your local tyre dealer do not have these, maybe you can order them from Tirerack in USA or something?

You forgot one of the advantage of non run flats: They are significantly lighter, and lower unsprung weight is a huge advantage for both grip and comfort. They are even less noisy.

Stay away from runflats.

[ttimbo]

Ove is spot on!
Keep an eye out for M135I/235i owners upgrading to 19" wheels/tyres, as buying their wheels and tyres second hand can solve many problems, not to mention cost. That said, a full set, new, in Australia is going to cost you relative to other markets. If non- RFT, I'd suggest MPSS are the best choice.

[AusF20/F48]

Originally Posted by ovekvam

Isn't the M135i fit with Michelin PSS in exactly that size?
If your local tyre dealer do not have these, maybe you can order them from Tirerack in USA or something?

You forgot one of the advantage of non run flats: They are significantly lighter, and lower unsprung weight is a huge advantage for both grip and comfort. They are even less noisy.

Stay away from runflats.

Hi Ovekvam
Yes, you are right, the weight is also a factor I considered.
As the M135i does not use RF, I am leaning towards the Michelin PSS.

[johnnydad]

I went from RFT RE050s to non-RFT Michelin PS2s on my 325i
We swapped RFT CSC3 to non-RFT Continental CSC5s on our 320d
My M135i in on PSS.

Against RFTs
The majority of punctures are nails/slowish leaks which can be repaired or rectified with goo (or patched at the roadside with a plug kit).
Using RFTs without a spare isn't any advantage if you have a major failure - and you can theoretically only drive a short distance at low speed anyway if they just lose pressure.
They are heavy, noisier and certainly don't handle with the security and fluidity of conventional tyres.
They are more expensive, harder to source if you are stuck somewhere

Advantages
If you are a numpty and continue to drive on a part-flat tyre you win
If you have a relatively large puncture at speed on a freeway they may be safer.

Alternatives
Michelin lists PS2s as available here for both ends - RRP is $389 and $519 but Tempe Tyres Online list them for $260 (F - 88Y) and $330. I found these an extraordinary tyre that made the 325i's chassis so would recommend.
You can find PSS locally - fronts are freely available and the rears appear on Tempe or Ozzy at times. Failing that you can import. They are the OEM for the M135i so are a great fit obviously - not sure they are actually any better than PS2 though.
I'm really happy with the CSC5's on our 320d they are MO (Mercedes spec) - Tempe have these for $209/280 for example. They perhaps aren't as outright sticky as PSS but wear better, and coming from your RFTs might be worth a look if budget is a concern. When I was choosing these, most of the reviews I came across rated them highly also although there are also several other excellent tyres as alternatives from major manufacturers.

[AusF20/F48]

Thanks all
I think I will go for the Michelin PSS

[johnnydad]

Motor Tyre Test is out - Contisport5 'wins' ahead of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup (noticeably stickier in the dry) due to its superior resistance to standing water.

[ovekvam]

Originally Posted by johnnydad

Motor Tyre Test is out - Contisport5 'wins' ahead of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup (noticeably stickier in the dry) due to its superior resistance to standing water.

But the cup tyre is more of a racing tyre for dry conditions. The PSS is a lot better in the wet. Was it also tested?

[ttimbo]

Originally Posted by johnnydad

Motor Tyre Test is out - Contisport5 'wins' ahead of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup (noticeably stickier in the dry) due to its superior resistance to standing water.

In my experience, which tyre is best also varies with the configuration of the car. FWD and FWD biased AWD cars benefit from stiffer sidewalks more than either compound or tyre pattern, which is why the Bridgestone RE050A seems to get a good work out on the likes of the Megane 8:08 and its successors

[AusF20/F48]

Bridgestone Potenza RF's on presently
I am not very happy with them.

Even when these tyres were new, the Fronts were inclined to slide when pushed. Rears are too skittish in the wet for me. That did not improved with wear.
They are also more expensive than Michelin PSS.

[ttimbo]

The RE050As are totally different animals to the RFTs, and shouldn't be compared.

My experience with Continentals goes back a few years, now. CSC3s, which developed a sidewall bulge. In two separate tyres, at different times. Didn't seem right to me.

[Ben_M135i]

I hated the contis when i had them on another car.... constantly folding the sidewalls under on corners even when running 43psi... PSS still have soft sidewalls, but are better. Grip very well, but I found Yokohama Neova AD08's were also quite grippy.