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      04-17-2020, 12:07 PM   #1
S6F
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704 regrets?

I find the standard 704 MSport suspension a bit stiff. Too busy. Doesn’t settle down on local roads. Wonderful on the highway. Do wish the shocks were a bit softer. Anyone else? Yes, I know, should have opted for variables. Using Pirelli non-runflats. Maybe I complain too much.
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      04-17-2020, 08:33 PM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by stevefoster View Post
I find the standard 704 MSport suspension a bit stiff. Too busy. Doesn’t settle down on local roads. Wonderful on the highway. Do wish the shocks were a bit softer. Anyone else? Yes, I know, should have opted for variables. Using Pirelli non-runflats. Maybe I complain too much.
Are you talking about your 3 series as shown on your profile?
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      04-18-2020, 09:03 AM   #3
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No, my profile needs updating. Actually that ‘16 had the damper control. Mine is a ‘19 540ixMsport. Great car but a bit too stiff!
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      04-18-2020, 10:41 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by stevefoster View Post
No, my profile needs updating. Actually that ‘16 had the damper control. Mine is a ‘19 540ixMsport. Great car but a bit too stiff!
Unless you've already done that,I would suggest replacing RFTs tires with the most comfortable non-RFT set. Will make a big difference.
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      04-19-2020, 08:14 AM   #5
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I have the 704 with non-runflats and find it to be an excellent balance of handling and ride.

The only vehicles on which I’ve been able to tolerate runs flats are our SUVs.
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      04-19-2020, 12:26 PM   #6
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Yes, like the others have said. Change your tires to standard ones. I have done this on every single BMW I have had. It's day vs night.
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      04-19-2020, 12:54 PM   #7
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Your tire pressure may be set too high, even 2-3 psi makes a big difference in compliance. If your tire pressure is set properly, your only solution is to up your sidewall by 5% to the same size as 7 series.
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      04-19-2020, 01:17 PM   #8
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Thanks for the replies. I’m running Pirelli Cinturato P7 non-runflats. I dropped my pressures to about 33 all around, as opposed to the recommended 41/35. Last suggestion is something I thought about. But a little too late. The tires only have 5kmi on them!
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      04-19-2020, 04:22 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BlueSander View Post
Yes, like the others have said. Change your tires to standard ones. I have done this on every single BMW I have had. It's day vs night.
I've been wanting to do this but I'm worried about what would happen to my wheels if I get a flat. Does it mean I'll need to replace rims if I get a flat tire due to damage?
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      04-19-2020, 06:03 PM   #10
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I have 540i 704 MSport, 20" staggered and Michelin PS3ZP and wish the passive suspension was stiffer.

BTW, when you're in the market for a new car, go for the full Dynamic Handling Package. You'll appreciate the softer ride in Comfort but when you want performance, and less roll than 704, it's there in Sport / Sport +.
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      04-19-2020, 09:13 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by claykin View Post
I have 540i 704 MSport, 20" staggered and Michelin PS3ZP and wish the passive suspension was stiffer.

BTW, when you're in the market for a new car, go for the full Dynamic Handling Package. You'll appreciate the softer ride in Comfort but when you want performance, and less roll than 704, it's there in Sport / Sport +.
those ps3zp are really good very grippy on a 550 ,outperforms the Goodyear eagle asymmetrical
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      04-20-2020, 12:03 AM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BimmerJ550 View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by claykin View Post
I have 540i 704 MSport, 20" staggered and Michelin PS3ZP and wish the passive suspension was stiffer.

BTW, when you're in the market for a new car, go for the full Dynamic Handling Package. You'll appreciate the softer ride in Comfort but when you want performance, and less roll than 704, it's there in Sport / Sport +.
those ps3zp are really good very grippy on a 550 ,outperforms the Goodyear eagle asymmetrical
Thanks. Honestly the Goodyear F1 Assymetric 3 is a horrible tire. One of the worst I've experienced in years. In other words, pretty much anything comparable is better. But, yes the PS3ZP is top class for the G30 with compatible wheels.
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      04-20-2020, 04:28 PM   #13
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I don't find Msport passive suspension as too stiff... but everyone has their own preference. Going non-flat route will help you for sure
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      04-20-2020, 04:46 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bimmer_335 View Post
I don't find Msport passive suspension as too stiff... but everyone has their own preference. Going non-flat route will help you for sure
On my prior 3 series, I had it and liked it but my wife absolutely hated it. Said it was too rough for her.

So I suggest the best practice is to have all the regular drivers/passengers included in the test drive. For passengers, make sure they are passengers during the test drive as the act of driving can influence the apparent ride.
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      04-21-2020, 04:46 AM   #15
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Zero regrets with my 704 suspension choice. I much prefer a sportier-stiffer type setup, that's why I went with a BMW MSport 5-series instead of a Lexus ES350.

It sounds like you would have been happier with the Dynamic Handling Package option which on your 540ix would give you the electronic dampening shocks and about 10mm higher ride height.
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      04-21-2020, 07:05 AM   #16
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So I opted for the MSoort suspension and when I want to have some fun it’s amazing. On crappy roads it’s harsh but I’d do it again. Wish the comfort setting did more to soften it up. My wife does not love it and as a result we take her 530ix most of the time on weekends.

Maybe the dynamic suspension is the way to go ? I did not want to drop that money on a lease without driving it first and there were none nearby.
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      04-21-2020, 08:12 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by jsf721 View Post
So I opted for the MSoort suspension and when I want to have some fun it’s amazing. On crappy roads it’s harsh but I’d do it again. Wish the comfort setting did more to soften it up. My wife does not love it and as a result we take her 530ix most of the time on weekends.

Maybe the dynamic suspension is the way to go ? I did not want to drop that money on a lease without driving it first and there were none nearby.
FYI, ZDH package for 530 vs 540/550 is different.
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      04-22-2020, 07:10 PM   #18
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Originally Posted by jwong77 View Post
I've been wanting to do this but I'm worried about what would happen to my wheels if I get a flat. Does it mean I'll need to replace rims if I get a flat tire due to damage?
if you are running on 20s, then stick with runflats. I have done it on 18s, 19s... for since 2013 or so.
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      04-23-2020, 09:42 PM   #19
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I love my M Sport suspension. Prior to buying I made sure to test drive one with M Sport pkg and the ride quality was much better than I expected.
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