Z3 Wheels / tires

A few weeks ago I posted a request for information and opinions regarding
wheel / tire upgrades for my 2002 Z3. I appreciate all the responses. This
is a follow-up to that post.
My stock tires were 225/50-16 on stock 16" BMW wheels. I was considering
going to an 18" wheel / tire staggered setup but based on the responses
decided against the 18". I worked with Gil at Tirerack and we came up with
the following setup:

Tires
235/45-17 front Kumho Ecsta ASX
255/40-17 rears Kumho Ecsta ASX

Wheels
17x8 front Rial Nogaro
17X9 front Rial Nogaro

The freight arrived in 3 days in perfect condition. The fitment is perfect.
The ride characteristics are not unlike the stock tires / wheels. I have not
pushed it yet, so the cornering is still unknown. So far I cannot spin the
back tires on acceleration like the stock tires. By the way, the car looks
great!

I have to say the people at Tirerack are first rate! I have purchased tires
before from Tirerack, but in this case I needed a little extra help to
determine the best setup both technically and cosmetically.

Thanks,

Mark A. Heiliger

> wrote
> I have to say the people at Tirerack are first rate!

Their sales guys are good, but their fulfillment dept is another
story... they screw up as much as all other guys. About 30% of what I
order from them arrives unacceptable. Last time I ordered 5 rims, one
of them arrived with a rusted lip - I guess they were hoping I wouldn't
complain and just take it? And last time I ordered a set of tires (4),
they sent me one that was in a different size than the other 3. Worse
yet, their recommended installer put them on the car like that and sent
me out the door. I only noticed it after I got up on the hwy and the
car was pulling to the side. Good thing that was not my e39 but a
company car.

The good thing about TR though is that their customer service takes good
care of you whenever they do screw up.

Cheers,
Pete