clematis

I have a BMW 520i ES (52 plate) The alloys are 17" BMW standards and the tyres are standard 235x45xR17 The ride because of M tec suspension is a little firm for me. Can I change alloys or tyres, to give a less firm ride?

Doc

Absolutely. American Racing is just one source for rims that gives offsets, substitutions and installation solutions on dealers' computer. Most wheel manufacturers do.

So, the 45 aspect or ratio is the reason for your firm ride. Go to a 50 series, as is stock on my new Pontiac G6 GT with touring tires, instead of performance; and BTW mine are Hankook Optimo of all things, yet they are beautiful! Size 225/50/R17, 25 1/2 inches across, and an 8 inch wide footprint on the road.

And a similar 55 series would be 215/55/R17, even cushier, if touring. You'd be floating on air, but still stuck to the road!