Got 172 M wheels installed

I bought and installed a set of 172 M (from a 550i MSport) on my 2010 535i (sport pack with style 124) yesterday. What a difference!

Before I go further, I have to mention that I bought the rims with tires from pjinca , a user that frequently posts on this forum. I am very satisfied with the buying experience and would recommend him to anyone who wants to buy from an honest seller.

I originally wanted to replace my OEM 18inch sport package wheels/tires (Hankook Ventus V12) because of a bent rear rim. I believe my car was sold to me in this condition (CPO) from the stealer. I also went over a bad pothole near LAX recently which I think caused more problems. I've been getting vibrations through the seat and the whole car in general. Anyways, it was time for a change.

I had read several threads that said going to 19inch would ruin the car's ride/performance, but I believe the exact opposite to be true.

The change from 18inch to 19inch has changed the character of the car. It feels more stable and planted now. The ride has also improved, and bumps in the road that used to upset the chassis before, are now still felt, but without loosing composure. Grip has also improved, where I used to get the rear end stepping out and the DSC kicking in when taking turns at high speed, I now get no fuss and a "on rails" experience. Steering has changed slightly, feeling a little more direct with much less vibration.

I guess overall the car just feels more "substantial", if that makes sense.

I think all these changes might also have to do with the "new to me" tires, Sumitomo HTR Z3, which replaced the Hankooks that were on my 18s.

Another benefit....they look absolutely awesome on these cars!

Downside, they are a complete PITA to keep clean. The brake dust builds up quickly, and the spokes are so thin and close together getting between them isn't easy. I've been using ArmorAll wheel protectant, and with that, the dust build up is much less, and what does get on the wheel hoses off pretty quickly and easily.

Keith

Good choice, bhenchod!

I hear the Hankooks are pretty good...since it's a directional tire, you may experience some howl as they get older.

I am glad you like them buddy, also glad they found a good home. I love the look and performance of 19 and 20 inch wheels on our cars. I never did mind feeling the road, that is after all, exactly why we buy BMW's, isn't it? I know it's one of the reasons I stuck with an E60 instead of the F10, the E60 feels more like a driver's car. Enjoy the wheels buddy, have fun driving the car the way it should be.

Originally Posted by Dishoom

Good choice, bhenchod!

I hear the Hankooks are pretty good...since it's a directional tire, you may experience some howl as they get older.

The Hankooks are VERY good, unfortunately like all really grippy tires, the don't last very long. Expect to need new rears at least within 10-12 months.

Originally Posted by pjinca

I am glad you like them buddy, also glad they found a good home. I love the look and performance of 19 and 20 inch wheels on our cars. I never did mind feeling the road, that is after all, exactly why we buy BMW's, isn't it? I know it's one of the reasons I stuck with an E60 instead of the F10, the E60 feels more like a driver's car. Enjoy the wheels buddy, have fun driving the car the way it should be.

What are you riding on now?
Did you install an aftermarket wheel?
Pics?

I've been looking at wheels for a while now and I think I may end up with some 172's myself. Probably going to gloss them black or go with a matte black....

Originally Posted by Vandalay

What are you riding on now?
Did you install an aftermarket wheel?
Pics?

I haven't gotten my new wheels yet, I am rolling on my 20's that are also for sale in my FS thread here. I will probably refurbish them and put them up for sale again once the new ones are on. I will post pics when I get the new wheels. There's a lot happening to my car over the next month and then more to come later. I will be posting pics of the progress.

Here is a list of what was done to my old 2005 530, I will be walking a similar path, just more performance oriented:

Haman front bumper
M-tech style side skirts
OEM M5 rear bumper, with custom quad exhaust and CF Hartge style diffuser
K-Sport coilovers
R1 concepts drilled rotors with Hawk HPS pads and stainless brake lines
Seibon CF M3 style hood
LCI headlights w/12 LED AE
LCI rep taillights
CF ACS style roof and trunk spoilers
HID foglights

That was a really nice looking ride...very tasteful.