The TireRack Winter Product Bible

Gary@TireRack · 09-19-2009, 08:43 AM

The online system doesn't show this as a match because the speed rating on the rear size is V and the front is H. Ideally you'd like to have the tires match in that regard but sometimes you have to go that route if that's the only way the manufacturer produces it. Those certainly would fit your wheels.
The speed rating differences would only come into play during agressive driving, and most are unlikely to be doing that in the winter.

Gill

Evice · 09-19-2009, 10:05 AM

Thank you so much Gill. Appriciate your quick response. Do you think for rear 205/50R17 is better choice than 225/45R17 ? This will give me square setup for winter and $50 gift car

Gary@TireRack · 09-19-2009, 11:01 AM

Either option will get you the card, but I do like the 205 all around better for that application.

Blue82 · 09-20-2009, 05:03 PM

Gill (or anyone else for that matter):

Any problems with this set-up on a 135i M-Sport?

Borbet LV5, 17x7, +35mm Offset
225/45R17 XL Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25 RFT

My only concern is whether the wheels will be too narrow for the tires.

Gary@TireRack · 09-21-2009, 08:39 AM

^^ That works. Rim width range on that tire is 7" to 8.5"

MarkHarrison · 09-25-2009, 06:40 PM

Hey Gill. Just ordered from you today, excellent service and 50% of what bimmer Canada wants for the same thing (well close enough). $3200 on sale at the local bimmer dealer. $3200!!!!

$15 and change from Tire Rack.

All Hail Tire Rack

psmwrx · 10-01-2009, 11:35 AM

Hello all! Just joined the forum as my future wife bought a 135i with the M sport option a couple months ago, and I'm a bit worried about her when the snow flies.

We live around London, Ontario, Canada, and travel north sometimes so I'm looking for a good dedicated winter tire for her, not a performance winter tire like most dealers around here seem to push on owners of sporty cars.

Just some background, I've driven Subaru's with studdable winter tires for many, many years. I know the 135i isn't going to come anywhere close to that winter performance, but I'd like to try and find the safest combo for her I possibly can.

I was hoping to downsize her to a 17" rim (15 or 16 would be better but I doubt I'd be able to find a rim to clear those front callipers, unless I found a rally rim or something), and get something like the Gislaved Nordfrost 5 tire. The General Altimax was a copy of the Nordfrost 3 from what I'm told, they worked great on my WRX last winter so I wouldn't mind those either.

So please bear with a BMW newb (the GF said she'll try to have me converted within 18 months, I'm not so sure), I have a few questions I hope I won't get flamed for!

If dropping down to a 17" rim on the 135i, what offset front/rear is recommended? And still use the staggered tire sizes? What about run flats? Do the winter tires really have to be run flats? If not, there is no room anywhere for a spare, do owners just carry that green slime stuff or something?

My GF really wants to just buy Blizzaks and swap them onto her m sport rims every winter, that doesn't sound very good to me!

Thanks in advance for any advise, and patience with a newb!

The_28th_TroLL · 10-05-2009, 11:27 AM

Hi Gill.

I have [225/40 R18 front] and [255/35 R18 rear] summer tires on R18x8.5 rims with offsets [42 front], [50 rear] on my 135i. Is it good decision to install 225/40 R18 winter tires allround on this rims? I want to install Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3. Is it best winter tires?

Thank you!

ChrisK · 10-11-2009, 08:46 AM

What do you guys think looks good this year?

http://www.tirerack.com/snow/WinterW...&Qty8=4&Qty9=4

Gary@TireRack · 10-12-2009, 07:25 AM

Looks like this link was time sensitive....

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisK

What do you guys think looks good this year?

http://www.tirerack.com/snow/WinterW...&Qty8=4&Qty9=4

GregB · 10-15-2009, 04:44 PM

I'm sorry if this question has been asked but I'm wondering what you would recommend to someone who lives in Toronto, Canada and drives a 135i. I'm debating between going for a Winter Sports Tire (Dunlop 3D) or a Studless Ice/Snow (WS-60)

I've used Dunlop M3's in the past and loved them, however, it was on an STI which had the nice benefit of AWD. I'm concerned with a RWD car they may not do as well. Most of my driving is in the city on cold, paved roads, and this year it looks like its already time to put on winters as my stock tires are losing traction all the time lately.

Most of my driving is in the city however we do have some nasty snowstorms up here so I'm wondering if the 3D's would be good enough or would the WS-60s be a safer bet? The WS-60's wear a lot faster don't they?

jkp1187 · 10-19-2009, 11:25 AM

@Gill:

Just put on the Blizzak (non-RFTs) that you sold me earlier. They ride very comfortably, thanks for your help on that.

Since they are NOT RFTs, I was wondering, will there be any problem with the TPMS sensors getting fouled if I end up with a flat and use a can of fix-a-flat? (Is it preferable to use latex?) Or should I just lug around a spare in case I get a flat?

Thanks.

Absorber · 10-19-2009, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jkp1187

Since they are NOT RFTs, I was wondering, will there be any problem with the TPMS sensors getting fouled if I end up with a flat and use a can of fix-a-flat? (Is it preferable to use latex?) Or should I just lug around a spare in case I get a flat?

Great question! Interested to know myself!

Gary@TireRack · 10-19-2009, 11:44 AM

There is always a chance but using latex based sealants is the best way to keep the chances to a minimum. The latex peels right out and very seldom messes up a sensor. I've never seen it happen but I don't doubt it could.

Gill

Quote:

Originally Posted by jkp1187

@Gill:

Just put on the Blizzak (non-RFTs) that you sold me earlier. They ride very comfortably, thanks for your help on that.

Since they are NOT RFTs, I was wondering, will there be any problem with the TPMS sensors getting fouled if I end up with a flat and use a can of fix-a-flat? (Is it preferable to use latex?) Or should I just lug around a spare in case I get a flat?

Thanks.

My135 · 11-05-2009, 01:45 PM

Gill, my 135 coupe's (with sport package) OEM run flats is almost gone. I would like to replace them with non-run flats and one size bigger. What bigger size and brand would you recomend to fit the stock wheels; and any repair kit you recommend to go along the non-run flats? Please let me know. Thanks.

ck609 · 11-09-2009, 06:03 PM

I have the OEM 18" on my 135i and would like to put winter tires on. I am looking at Blizzak LM-25 or LM-60. What are the appropriate sizes?

Yvette · 12-10-2009, 08:14 PM

can someone confirm..
i am about to order blizzak ws60, for my stock staggered rims...
will 225/40/18 sizes work for both front/rear ????
i have 215 front and 235 rear now....

03SG///M3 · 01-12-2010, 03:35 PM

Gill,
I recently got 18" snow tires/wheels for my 09 E90 M3. There is a chance that I will be getting a 128. Will they fit on the 1 series?

Thanks

Gary@TireRack · 01-12-2010, 04:06 PM

No, sorry. The offsets are completely different.

03SG///M3 · 01-12-2010, 07:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gill@Tirerack.com

No, sorry. The offsets are completely different.

I suspected that was the case - That's too bad. Thanks for answering my question.

Ninja Monkey · 10-26-2010, 05:18 PM

Hi,

I just picked up a 135i with the M Sports Package and the DCT. I live in the Detroit Metro area and I'm looking for a good winter setup. We get a few big snowfalls but mostly it's dry and bitterly cold or some rain/slush and ice.

I would like 17" wheels with Performance Winter tires that can be rotated. Would the Dunlop M3's be a good choice?

Gary@TireRack · 10-26-2010, 05:43 PM

They would be a great choice.

09-19-2009, 08:43 AM	#133
Gary@TireRack Moderator 369 Rep 4,745 Posts Drives: Formerly 1995 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: South Bend, IN, Tire Rack HQ iTrader: (2)	The online system doesn't show this as a match because the speed rating on the rear size is V and the front is H. Ideally you'd like to have the tires match in that regard but sometimes you have to go that route if that's the only way the manufacturer produces it. Those certainly would fit your wheels. The speed rating differences would only come into play during agressive driving, and most are unlikely to be doing that in the winter. Gill __________________ Gary. Tire and Wheel Forum Moderator. Tire Rack Sales Rep Gary@Tirerack.com http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AH8&url=index.jsp Please refer to 'Gary/E90 Post' as your previous contact when you order online to help support this forum.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-19-2009, 10:05 AM	#134
Evice Major 194 Rep 1,457 Posts Drives: E92M3 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Somewhere here iTrader: (1)	Thank you so much Gill. Appriciate your quick response. Do you think for rear 205/50R17 is better choice than 225/45R17 ? This will give me square setup for winter and $50 gift car __________________ My Track Videos
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-19-2009, 11:01 AM	#135
Gary@TireRack Moderator 369 Rep 4,745 Posts Drives: Formerly 1995 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: South Bend, IN, Tire Rack HQ iTrader: (2)	Either option will get you the card, but I do like the 205 all around better for that application. __________________ Gary. Tire and Wheel Forum Moderator. Tire Rack Sales Rep Gary@Tirerack.com http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AH8&url=index.jsp Please refer to 'Gary/E90 Post' as your previous contact when you order online to help support this forum.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-20-2009, 05:03 PM	#136
Blue82 Enlisted Member 1 Rep 32 Posts Drives: 2009 135i Coupe Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Washington, DC iTrader: (0)	Gill (or anyone else for that matter): Any problems with this set-up on a 135i M-Sport? Borbet LV5, 17x7, +35mm Offset 225/45R17 XL Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25 RFT My only concern is whether the wheels will be too narrow for the tires.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-21-2009, 08:39 AM	#137
Gary@TireRack Moderator 369 Rep 4,745 Posts Drives: Formerly 1995 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: South Bend, IN, Tire Rack HQ iTrader: (2)	^^ That works. Rim width range on that tire is 7" to 8.5" __________________ Gary. Tire and Wheel Forum Moderator. Tire Rack Sales Rep Gary@Tirerack.com http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AH8&url=index.jsp Please refer to 'Gary/E90 Post' as your previous contact when you order online to help support this forum.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-25-2009, 06:40 PM	#138
MarkHarrison New Member 1 Rep 26 Posts Drives: 2017 X3 35i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Edmonton, Alberta iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 435ix [0.00]	Hey Gill. Just ordered from you today, excellent service and 50% of what bimmer Canada wants for the same thing (well close enough). $3200 on sale at the local bimmer dealer. $3200!!!! $15 and change from Tire Rack. All Hail Tire Rack
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-01-2009, 11:35 AM	#139
psmwrx Registered 0 Rep 3 Posts Drives: WRX, 135i Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: London iTrader: (0)	Hello all! Just joined the forum as my future wife bought a 135i with the M sport option a couple months ago, and I'm a bit worried about her when the snow flies. We live around London, Ontario, Canada, and travel north sometimes so I'm looking for a good dedicated winter tire for her, not a performance winter tire like most dealers around here seem to push on owners of sporty cars. Just some background, I've driven Subaru's with studdable winter tires for many, many years. I know the 135i isn't going to come anywhere close to that winter performance, but I'd like to try and find the safest combo for her I possibly can. I was hoping to downsize her to a 17" rim (15 or 16 would be better but I doubt I'd be able to find a rim to clear those front callipers, unless I found a rally rim or something), and get something like the Gislaved Nordfrost 5 tire. The General Altimax was a copy of the Nordfrost 3 from what I'm told, they worked great on my WRX last winter so I wouldn't mind those either. So please bear with a BMW newb (the GF said she'll try to have me converted within 18 months, I'm not so sure), I have a few questions I hope I won't get flamed for! If dropping down to a 17" rim on the 135i, what offset front/rear is recommended? And still use the staggered tire sizes? What about run flats? Do the winter tires really have to be run flats? If not, there is no room anywhere for a spare, do owners just carry that green slime stuff or something? My GF really wants to just buy Blizzaks and swap them onto her m sport rims every winter, that doesn't sound very good to me! Thanks in advance for any advise, and patience with a newb!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-05-2009, 11:27 AM	#140
The_28th_TroLL New Member 2 Rep 5 Posts Drives: bmw 135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Belarus iTrader: (0)	Hi Gill. I have [225/40 R18 front] and [255/35 R18 rear] summer tires on R18x8.5 rims with offsets [42 front], [50 rear] on my 135i. Is it good decision to install 225/40 R18 winter tires allround on this rims? I want to install Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3. Is it best winter tires? Thank you!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-11-2009, 08:46 AM	#141
ChrisK Major General 4450 Rep 7,594 Posts Drives: '19 M2C Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Chicagoland iTrader: (7) Garage List 2019 BMW M2C [7.00] 2015 Porsche Macan S [0.00]	What do you guys think looks good this year? http://www.tirerack.com/snow/WinterW...&Qty8=4&Qty9=4
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10-15-2009, 04:44 PM	#143
GregB New Member 2 Rep 28 Posts Drives: AW 135i Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Home iTrader: (0)	I'm sorry if this question has been asked but I'm wondering what you would recommend to someone who lives in Toronto, Canada and drives a 135i. I'm debating between going for a Winter Sports Tire (Dunlop 3D) or a Studless Ice/Snow (WS-60) I've used Dunlop M3's in the past and loved them, however, it was on an STI which had the nice benefit of AWD. I'm concerned with a RWD car they may not do as well. Most of my driving is in the city on cold, paved roads, and this year it looks like its already time to put on winters as my stock tires are losing traction all the time lately. Most of my driving is in the city however we do have some nasty snowstorms up here so I'm wondering if the 3D's would be good enough or would the WS-60s be a safer bet? The WS-60's wear a lot faster don't they?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-19-2009, 11:25 AM	#144
jkp1187 Unindicted co-conspirator 66 Rep 1,734 Posts Drives: to work, mostly. Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Detroit, Michigan iTrader: (0)	@Gill: Just put on the Blizzak (non-RFTs) that you sold me earlier. They ride very comfortably, thanks for your help on that. Since they are NOT RFTs, I was wondering, will there be any problem with the TPMS sensors getting fouled if I end up with a flat and use a can of fix-a-flat? (Is it preferable to use latex?) Or should I just lug around a spare in case I get a flat? Thanks.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

11-05-2009, 01:45 PM	#147
My135 Lieutenant Colonel 85 Rep 1,609 Posts Drives: Join Date: Mar 2008 iTrader: (0)	Gill, my 135 coupe's (with sport package) OEM run flats is almost gone. I would like to replace them with non-run flats and one size bigger. What bigger size and brand would you recomend to fit the stock wheels; and any repair kit you recommend to go along the non-run flats? Please let me know. Thanks. __________________ 7/08 135 Coupe, Crimson Red, 6 SP, Sport, Taupe Lette/Aluminum. Performance Mods: JB4 on Map 5, BMS DP Fix V3, Injen polished intake, AR Catless DP, Maddad resonated mid-pipes, aFe exhaust polished tips, ST Suspension Coil Over and Hotchkis front sway bar. Others: BMS OCC, BT Scanner, Mud Flap. Next Mods: AA Front Strut Brace.
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11-09-2009, 06:03 PM	#148
ck609 New Member 1 Rep 10 Posts Drives: m235i Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Washington DC iTrader: (0)	I have the OEM 18" on my 135i and would like to put winter tires on. I am looking at Blizzak LM-25 or LM-60. What are the appropriate sizes? __________________ 2014 m235i stock
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12-10-2009, 08:14 PM	#149
Yvette Major General 761 Rep 7,408 Posts Drives: M Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Vancouver iTrader: (19)	can someone confirm.. i am about to order blizzak ws60, for my stock staggered rims... will 225/40/18 sizes work for both front/rear ???? i have 215 front and 235 rear now....
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01-12-2010, 03:35 PM	#150
03SG///M3 Lieutenant 67 Rep 579 Posts Drives: 328 Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: CT iTrader: (0)	Gill, I recently got 18" snow tires/wheels for my 09 E90 M3. There is a chance that I will be getting a 128. Will they fit on the 1 series? Thanks
	Appreciate 0 Quote

01-12-2010, 04:06 PM	#151
Gary@TireRack Moderator 369 Rep 4,745 Posts Drives: Formerly 1995 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: South Bend, IN, Tire Rack HQ iTrader: (2)	No, sorry. The offsets are completely different. __________________ Gary. Tire and Wheel Forum Moderator. Tire Rack Sales Rep Gary@Tirerack.com http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AH8&url=index.jsp Please refer to 'Gary/E90 Post' as your previous contact when you order online to help support this forum.
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10-26-2010, 05:18 PM	#153
Ninja Monkey New Member 5 Rep 26 Posts Drives: 2011 135i, M Sports Pack, DCT Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Southeast MI iTrader: (0)	Hi, I just picked up a 135i with the M Sports Package and the DCT. I live in the Detroit Metro area and I'm looking for a good winter setup. We get a few big snowfalls but mostly it's dry and bitterly cold or some rain/slush and ice. I would like 17" wheels with Performance Winter tires that can be rotated. Would the Dunlop M3's be a good choice?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

10-26-2010, 05:43 PM	#154
Gary@TireRack Moderator 369 Rep 4,745 Posts Drives: Formerly 1995 M3 Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: South Bend, IN, Tire Rack HQ iTrader: (2)	They would be a great choice. __________________ Gary. Tire and Wheel Forum Moderator. Tire Rack Sales Rep Gary@Tirerack.com http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AH8&url=index.jsp Please refer to 'Gary/E90 Post' as your previous contact when you order online to help support this forum.
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