I'm thinking of buying a set of wheels from a friend (not gonna mention who just yet.) The wheels have Dunlop SP9000s mounted on them -- two in decent (about 1/2 worn) condition, and two worn out.
I know that the SP9000 is a decent tire, but it is not my first choice tire.

If I buy these wheels, I have three options:
1. Put the two decent tires on the back, and buy two new SP9000s for the front. This is the most cost-effective decision, since I'd only be buying two tires right now. But again, they are not my first choice tire. Plus I'd be getting myself into the dreaded "college student rotation" cycle of replacing two tires at a time. Considering that I track my car, I think I would prefer having equal tread at all four corners, for safety's sake.

Option #2.
Throw out all four SP9000s (including the two decent ones) and buy a set of four inexpensive tires, possibly Kumho 712, or more likely Dunlop FM901 or the new Kumho MX.

Option #3.
Same as option #2, except go-for-broke and get the tires I *really* want -- the Bridgestone S03, especially now that they have dropped in price. (I've always been a big fan of Bridgestone, and I would certainly get another set of RE730s. But the S03s are so close in price now, that I'd be tempted to get them instead of the newly redesigned RE730s.)


Of course I could always buy less expensive wheels. The used wheels in question are 17" Oettinger RE. Without mentioning the asking price of the wheels, let me just say that they are slightly more than what it would cost for a set of NEW Ace Lolas (or Borbet, MM, Moda, or any other inexpensive wheel).

So do I get cheaper wheels and the tires I really want?
Do I get the expensive wheels, and cheaper tires?
Or should I get the expensive wheels, with the tires I really want, and just starve myself for a few weeks so that I can afford them?

Thanks,
Peter

 

If you check posts from me about 4/5 months ago, I was raving about how good the Pilot Sports were. In fact, those were really great tires, awesome grip in both wet & dry, and very quiet at high speeds. The S-03's, however, edge out the Pilot Sports in every respect. Superior dry & wet traction, and similar noise at high speeds.

In terms of wheels, I would personally go for the RE's if they're in good condition and the asking price for them isn't too much more than say a new set of Lola's. Also, I think the RE's are a great looking wheel.

 

I'd go for them instead of 712s.

REs are very nice wheels, but look a bit small in 17". I like Lolas a lot as well.

 

Thanks CMC and Pete for your opinions. I am indeed leaning towards the used REs, and a set of S03s.

My next question is which wheels would be best suited for the horrible roads of Brooklyn and the rest of NYC?
My ride quality already sucks because of these roads (even a Lincoln Town Car gets upset on these roads). I just don't want to be bending wheels. Would 17" REs hold up okay? Or would the Ace Lola be stronger, since it has more spokes?

Or heck, for only a little more, maybe I should just get the 17" Ronal R-28s. They're nice and strong, although very heavy.
(I'm trying to keep my wheels under $200 apiece.)

Thoughts?

Thanks,
Peter

 

I hear the REs are a strong wheel, so no worries with the NYC roads.

Another option is to try to sell the two good Dulops and apply that money to a set of SO3s.

I have the Dunlop FM901 (235/40-17) and I am very happy with the performance, ride and feel of the tire. I used to have Michelin Pilot Sports and I think the FM901 is as good.

Good luck, whichever you choose! Those REs are my all0time favorite wheel.

PeteH

 

I'd do the less expensive wheels and the S-03s. The tires are awesome.

 

you're on the right track here. Having driven in NYC many times, I would definitely not go above 17", and even that may be too much sometimes. That's probably your thinking, too. On the other hand, the strength of other wheels you mentioned (Borbets, MMs, and Modas) has been questioned here many times. While they're probably OK for most places, I don't know if NYC is one of them ;-)

Now, also consider the strength of tires - some of them have softer sidewalls (SP9000) than others (S-03). SP9000s are so comfortable because they're on the softer side. But, they may not offer the best protection from potholes for your rims. Of course, you can play around with tire pressure to alleviate some of this.

Also, in case I have not mentioned it before, I am very happy with my S-03s. Outstanding all-around performers. And now, they're even less expensive than what I paid for them 3 months ago.

Happy shopping! ;-)

 

Okay, so maybe I'm biased, but still...4/5 votes for the RE's, and 4/5 votes for the S03's. That's gotta count for something!!

So when do you want to pick them up? I'm getting very busy trying to part out one car, arrange for financing for another, and making travel arrangements. The S is coming!!!! :-)