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C6 ride quality optimization

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Old May 15, 2016 | 12:45 PM
  #1  
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Default C6 ride quality optimization

I'm looking at getting a C6 MT coupe (though also open to a convertible), but my wife has a rather damaged lumbar spine. As a result, I'm looking to maximize ride comfort, so she can drive with me.

I also have no interest in taking it to the track - just driving around town and road trips.

It seems to me that the key option to that end is F55 (magnetic selective ride), but are there other options I need to look for?

Assuming a budget of $30k, what options should I be looking for to maximize ride quality? Does any trim level add something in this regard?

Also, it appears that the dial near the stick shift for selecting ride quality implies the presence of the magnetic selective ride - is that a good way to determine the presence of that option from listings?
Thanks!
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Old May 15, 2016 | 01:53 PM
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Yes on both counts. And to confirm, you can just look for the F55 code on the options sticker on the back side of the glovebox door when you see the car in person.
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Old May 15, 2016 | 03:18 PM
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You definitely want F55. My F55 Grand Sport with F55 rides better than my wife's 2010 BMW 335i. It may be above your budget, but see if you can find a 2012/2013 2LT with F55 base coupe. This will get you the best ride quality with the best seats (the 2012 seats are noticeable better than the 2011 and earlier). I have lower back issues, but I can drive my GS for an entire day and get out without any pain.
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Old May 15, 2016 | 03:24 PM
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you might also replace the run flats with NON run flats and run them a little lower air pressure
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Old May 15, 2016 | 03:41 PM
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I agree with the above suggestions. I have a 2010 coupe with F55 suspension and I replaced the Goodyear run flats with Nitto Invos (not run flats). The ride quality is great for cruising. I have had several people comment that they were surprised at how well the car rides.

Now if you wanted to track the car then I would lean towards the Michelin PS2.

Last edited by ncvette_1FUNRIDE; May 15, 2016 at 03:42 PM.
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Old May 15, 2016 | 04:27 PM
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Originally Posted by ncvette_1FUNRIDE
I agree with the above suggestions. I have a 2010 coupe with F55 suspension and I replaced the Goodyear run flats with Nitto Invos (not run flats). The ride quality is great for cruising. I have had several people comment that they were surprised at how well the car rides.

Now if you wanted to track the car then I would lean towards the Michelin PS2.
Non-run flats will give you a softer & quieter ride then run flats with no reduction in traction or handling.
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Old May 15, 2016 | 04:34 PM
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As someone with multiple back surgeries and of a ripe ole age, I would suggest first off seeing if entry/exit is a prob, they are low
Your budget precludes the next recommendation but FYI the 2012 seats are supposedly more comfortable than earlier models.
Good luck
NSF
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Old May 16, 2016 | 10:35 PM
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Default F55 suspension, tires & seats

Beware the Goodyear Runflats - they ride hard. Firestone Runflats provide much improved ride and are much quieter. We have a 2010 and find the seats better than our previous 2005. The F55 in tour mode is pretty comfortable.

You can run the rear tires at 27 psi for softer ride. - slight mileage cost.
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Old May 16, 2016 | 10:49 PM
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I replaced my Goodyear run flats with Michelin run flats -- amazing difference!

From reading the forums, I think the consensus is to dump the OEM Goodyears.
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Old May 16, 2016 | 11:14 PM
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My wife has a similar problem that developed a few years ago, well after we bought our Vetted). Theses days when we take it or our Camaro on long trips, she has a small 'bean' filled pillow she puts behind her back and often puts her purse on the floor and her feet up on it. Must work, because she still insists we take one or the other (over her CUV) on long trips and has an enjoyable time. FYI, I have the Z51 package & run Michelin run flats

Last edited by Welker1; May 16, 2016 at 11:14 PM.
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Old May 16, 2016 | 11:19 PM
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Originally Posted by ed devil z51
you might also replace the run flats with NON run flats and run them a little lower air pressure
keep the air pressure at 30 psi.
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Old May 17, 2016 | 12:09 AM
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Originally Posted by Rich Farr
Beware the Goodyear Runflats - they ride hard. Firestone Runflats provide much improved ride and are much quieter. We have a 2010 and find the seats better than our previous 2005. The F55 in tour mode is pretty comfortable.

You can run the rear tires at 27 psi for softer ride. - slight mileage cost.
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