Two questions ...
 

1. Does anyone "exercise" their convertible top over the winter, or do anything to stop the mechanism from deteriorating due to non-use. I'm planning to use my 2000 S most, if not all, of the winter and I'm concerned about the effects (if any) of not using the top regularly. Anyone had any late winter or spring time problems with their tops after storage or prolonged non-use??

2. What tires are people using/liking/not liking ... I'm still on the original Pirellis (16,000), but I'm going to have to replace the rears at least, sometime. Has anyone had a problem mixing fronts and rears. I ride a bike too (Aprilia Mille)and mixing can have adverse consequences with only two wheels.

Eugene So. Or. 2000 S

Answers:

1) Doesn't seem to be necessary. I've had 2 years of long (4+ months each), cold storage without issues in the spring.

2) I replaced my Pirellis with Kuhmo Ecsta 712's. They are super cheap ($400 for a complete set) and MUCH better than Pirellis for everything except absolute grip in the dry. They ride much smoother (feels like a different car!), are totally competant in the rain, are quiet, and are very progressive at the limit.

I replaced my origionals with Michelin Pilot Sport's 235/40/18 in front(V tread) and 275/35/18 in back(W tread).
love the new tires. Handles better then it ever did and from what I hear you can get good mileage from them.
Only downside is I think the michelins are the most expensive around...