2005 Lotus Elise General Thread

[Bob]

I'm starting this thread to capture some of my activities related to the Elise. It appears that real attention to the car may be able to resume at some point in the not too distant future.

The car needs rear tires (due to age and mileage). I last installed the rear 235/45-17 Dunlop Direzza Z1 Star Specs in April 2011 at 46,594 miles, which is nearly 9k miles and over 7 years ago. The 205/50-16 fronts are even older than that (July 2009 - mileage unknown, maybe high 30s). My top candidate is the Bridgestone RE-71Rs in 205/45-16 and 235/45-17. It seems that after the $70 rebate, I can get a set for a little over $500 if I shop around.

I'm also considering having a good performance alignment done again on the car. This was last done in 2006 not long after I bought it.

[Bob]

Also, I need to remember to ask for new valve stems. At least one of them is a little fussy now.

[Bob]

New tires ordered today from Discount Tire Direct. $579.02 with no tax and free shipping before the $70 rebate. Not too bad.

[Bob]

Finally got my tires installed today. I noticed a huge improvement in noise and ride harshness. Also, the road force balance was spot-on - no more annoying steering wheel movement at 75-80 MPH. I have not had a chance to validate the handling yet, but the steering feels a little lighter and quicker to respond.

On the way home, I got a wave and a nod from a guy in a Gen 5 Camaro SS. The Elise really transcends a lot of normal car enthusiast boundaries.

[kevm14]

Usually new tires feel less responsive unless you went up a performance class. I will probably spring for the road force balance on the STS.

[bill25]

I also like the Gen 5 Camaro SS and the Elise. As a car enthusiast, I have a hard time understanding how an enthusiast would only be interested in 1 thing.

[Bob]

I drove Tail of the Dragon over the weekend. This was my first time there since I went in 2011. The car performed well, though I can tell that either I or the car is getting slower relative to the competition. The Elise also broke 56k miles on the trip.

[kevm14]

I see you still do that thing where you stick your tongue out.

I should post what I have from my Dragon pictures. I still don't think I ever bought any....

[Bob]

They are probably still available for purchase.