My point was that I don't feel like I lost any of the "go kart like" handling in my Clubby, and I definitely got a significant improvement in roadability. I base my conclusions on time spent on track at HPT road course with both cars, and on real world driving on two long trips I've taken this year as well as my daily commute. The R55 drives nicely, handles every bit as well and doesn't beat me up. I don't believe you have to slam the car down and make it ride like a rock to get good handling.
Part of the improvements in the R55/56 came from using aluminum suspension peices instead of steel, for less unsprung weight, which allows a slightly softer spring and shock combination without giving away any control.
Most people who have driven them comment on the smoothness and roadability of current Ferraris, for example and they don't ride like rocks either, yet I doubt you'd find much not to like in their handling........
There are a lot of factors in the "handling" equation and not everyone finds the same benefits in the same car, so definitely to each his own, but I wouldn't turn my nose up at an R56 based on the one car you drove that you didn't like. You were very unhappy with your new tires right after you got them, how are they doing these days? Did they get better, or did you acclimate to them?
