17" or 18" for snow?

MAR · 11-07-2011, 10:11 AM

How much better traction do you get running 17" snows (Blizzaks) vs. 18" snows (Blizzaks)? I live in the DC area and we usually do not get that much snow so wondering if I could get away with 18s.

Also, with staggered rims sizes is it better to run a square winter set up?

Thanks!

ESC OFF · 11-08-2011, 08:36 AM

Winter traction is more about tire width than rim diameter, the thinnner the tire the more it will bite into the snow, the wider the tire the more it will float on the snow. Typically if you are installing a larger diameter rim you will be using a wider tire (typically). A square set-up is the best for winter and it allows front to back rotation. Not knowing what rim/tire combo you're looking for I'd say a 17"' square set-up will give you the best traction.

MAR · 11-08-2011, 10:14 AM

Thank you!

DriveHard · 11-08-2011, 10:42 AM

i run 17" square set up for winters ... theya re also very forgiving with the ruts and holes as opposed to the 18's that you may consider..

Although thinnner is better... I had 7.5" wheels that double duty as my track and winter wheel.. I run 225/45/17 ( which is basically the rear tire on a sport suspension 128) for both sets... Had absolutly no issues in last years 8 snow storms / blizzard in NY..!!!

You will appreciate the ability to rotate.

MAR · 11-08-2011, 11:43 AM

Thanks DriveHard. So you run 225/45/17s on your stock M207s? I was either going to put staggered tires on those or sqaure but use 205/50s (if they fit on the rear).

DriveHard · 11-08-2011, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MAR

Thanks DriveHard. So you run 225/45/17s on your stock M207s? I was either going to put staggered tires on those or sqaure but use 205/50s (if they fit on the rear).

no.. i use a set of ELBRUS 17 x 7.5's (et 42) for my winter and track duties

i have heard that persons use the rear wheel with the tire you say...

I would spend a few more bucks and get dedicated winter wheels and tires ...you will be so much happier in the long run.. you can swap them yourself in the street if you had too.. also you run the risk of damaging 8 tires 2 times a year on mounting and dismounting...not to mention the labor $'s and the risk to damaging you OEM wheels

just my .02

Dackelone · 11-08-2011, 12:34 PM

I run the BMW winter wheel/tire package. The wheels are 17x7j on all fours. The tire size is: 205/55HR17's on all fours. They also come with four TPMS sensors.

Running a tall skinny tire is best for winter "bite" in snow. Also the taller sidewall makes for a nicer ride when traveling over those huge winter potholes. Remember you don't want to skimp on tires because it IS your only connection with the road. Also... the first accident you AVOID will pay for the added cost of having a dedicated set of winters and summers. No compromises.

Name: 1series_wintertire_package2.jpg
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Name: 1series_wintertire_package2.jpg
Views: 497
Size: 230.4 KB

17" V SPOKE 141 (not for 1 M Coupé)
17" Alloy Wheels w/TPMS
Goodyear Eagle UG-GW3 RSC
205/50R17 89H Run-Flat

MAR · 11-08-2011, 01:24 PM

Thanks! I have 17" M207s from my 128 plus a set of 18" M261s for non-winter months. The M207s would be my dedicated snow wheel but they are staggered so not sure then if I should run staggered snows on the 17s or square (205s or 225s). I appreciate all of your feedback!

VMRWheels · 11-08-2011, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ESC OFF

Winter traction is more about tire width than rim diameter, the thinnner the tire the more it will bite into the snow, the wider the tire the more it will float on the snow. Typically if you are installing a larger diameter rim you will be using a wider tire (typically). A square set-up is the best for winter and it allows front to back rotation. Not knowing what rim/tire combo you're looking for I'd say a 17"' square set-up will give you the best traction.

+1

The width of the tire will definitely determine how well a setup works in winter. 18s will work as well though!

f1rst 1 · 11-08-2011, 03:08 PM

I just picked up 5 Blizzak LM-60 tires (used less than 500 miles for $400) running 225/40/18 on the stock 264 wheels, can't wait for the snow to see how they do, it should be a great set up though. They do stretch a little on the back wheels, but still should be fine

geebee · 11-10-2011, 04:16 PM

Go with a square setup in the winter; it balances handling front to rear to be roughly equal versus the rear traction balance on the summer stock setup.

KingOfJericho · 11-10-2011, 04:41 PM

I also do a 17" square setup for the winter. Works VERY well!

Gary@TireRack · 11-10-2011, 06:14 PM

17" gives you more flex in the sidewall and more protection from wheel damage. Usually 17" offers more options in the studless category.

ZIPNBYE · 11-11-2011, 06:29 AM

17" square here for going on three winters, running Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5's. The car will go through anything that winter throws at it (last winter was a return to 1970's era snowfalls here). Never got stuck once...

Elsabor67 · 11-11-2011, 07:26 AM

Stick with 17's square. I have 205/50's Michelins on mine right now. Last year I had Pirelli Sottozero's and had no problems getting around in the Bavarian winter.

MAR · 11-11-2011, 08:05 AM

Danke!

5teN · 11-17-2011, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by f1rst 1

I just picked up 5 Blizzak LM-60 tires (used less than 500 miles for $400) running 225/40/18 on the stock 264 wheels, can't wait for the snow to see how they do, it should be a great set up though. They do stretch a little on the back wheels, but still should be fine

Hi, I'm currently thinking about doing the same thing but was slightly concerned about the stretch in the rear rims. Do you have any pictures?

I started another post yesterday which kinda relates to this:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...6#post10817806

BrokenVert · 11-17-2011, 04:15 PM

This is what happens when you use 18" wheels as winter rims...

dtwyim · 11-17-2011, 11:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrokenVert

This is what happens when you use 18" wheels as winter rims...

How do you get gouges like that on the inside of the rim (in addition to the crack)?

BrokenVert · 11-18-2011, 06:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dtwyim

How do you get gouges like that on the inside of the rim (in addition to the crack)?

The assumption is that I caught a pothole on the inside bead and the hit caused the crack.

Moral is more sidewall to deal with potholes!

I also didnt mention this before. But that is one of the 264s that my car came from the factory with

jkp1187 · 11-18-2011, 06:23 AM

Another vote for 17" square set up and for getting dedicated winter wheels. Blizzaks have served me well for two winters (including getting caught in that memorable blizzard in 2010.)

I also picked up a set of snow chains for extreme situations, although that's more for peace of mind insurance than anything.

f1rst 1 · 11-20-2011, 03:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 5teN

Hi, I'm currently thinking about doing the same thing but was slightly concerned about the stretch in the rear rims. Do you have any pictures?

I started another post yesterday which kinda relates to this:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...6#post10817806

Sorry for the delay but here is my 264s with stretched 225/40 Blizzaks

11-07-2011, 10:11 AM	#1
MAR Private First Class 9 Rep 144 Posts Drives: E46 325i & 128 M Sport Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Arlington, VA iTrader: (0)	17" or 18" for snow? How much better traction do you get running 17" snows (Blizzaks) vs. 18" snows (Blizzaks)? I live in the DC area and we usually do not get that much snow so wondering if I could get away with 18s. Also, with staggered rims sizes is it better to run a square winter set up? Thanks!
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11-08-2011, 08:36 AM	#2
ESC OFF Major 40 Rep 1,058 Posts Drives: 1M, CaymanS, 914, 500 Abarth Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Chicago iTrader: (0)	Winter traction is more about tire width than rim diameter, the thinnner the tire the more it will bite into the snow, the wider the tire the more it will float on the snow. Typically if you are installing a larger diameter rim you will be using a wider tire (typically). A square set-up is the best for winter and it allows front to back rotation. Not knowing what rim/tire combo you're looking for I'd say a 17"' square set-up will give you the best traction. __________________ The faster you go, the better it feels
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11-08-2011, 10:14 AM	#3
MAR Private First Class 9 Rep 144 Posts Drives: E46 325i & 128 M Sport Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Arlington, VA iTrader: (0)	Thank you!
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11-08-2011, 10:42 AM	#4
DriveHard Colonel 115 Rep 1,998 Posts Drives: X1 and R58 JCW Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Long Island iTrader: (0)	i run 17" square set up for winters ... theya re also very forgiving with the ruts and holes as opposed to the 18's that you may consider.. Although thinnner is better... I had 7.5" wheels that double duty as my track and winter wheel.. I run 225/45/17 ( which is basically the rear tire on a sport suspension 128) for both sets... Had absolutly no issues in last years 8 snow storms / blizzard in NY..!!! You will appreciate the ability to rotate. __________________ X1, R58 JCW, M2 in my future if planets align
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11-08-2011, 11:43 AM	#5
MAR Private First Class 9 Rep 144 Posts Drives: E46 325i & 128 M Sport Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Arlington, VA iTrader: (0)	Thanks DriveHard. So you run 225/45/17s on your stock M207s? I was either going to put staggered tires on those or sqaure but use 205/50s (if they fit on the rear).
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11-08-2011, 12:34 PM	#7
Dackelone European Editor 10539 Rep 22,992 Posts Drives: N54 e82 Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Bayern, Germany iTrader: (1)	I run the BMW winter wheel/tire package. The wheels are 17x7j on all fours. The tire size is: 205/55HR17's on all fours. They also come with four TPMS sensors. Running a tall skinny tire is best for winter "bite" in snow. Also the taller sidewall makes for a nicer ride when traveling over those huge winter potholes. Remember you don't want to skimp on tires because it IS your only connection with the road. Also... the first accident you AVOID will pay for the added cost of having a dedicated set of winters and summers. No compromises. 17" V SPOKE 141 (not for 1 M Coupé) 17" Alloy Wheels w/TPMS Goodyear Eagle UG-GW3 RSC 205/50R17 89H Run-Flat
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11-08-2011, 01:24 PM	#8
MAR Private First Class 9 Rep 144 Posts Drives: E46 325i & 128 M Sport Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Arlington, VA iTrader: (0)	Thanks! I have 17" M207s from my 128 plus a set of 18" M261s for non-winter months. The M207s would be my dedicated snow wheel but they are staggered so not sure then if I should run staggered snows on the 17s or square (205s or 225s). I appreciate all of your feedback!
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11-08-2011, 03:08 PM	#10
f1rst 1 Lieutenant 28 Rep 457 Posts Drives: '18 x1 & '09 Cayman S Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Denver iTrader: (1)	I just picked up 5 Blizzak LM-60 tires (used less than 500 miles for $400) running 225/40/18 on the stock 264 wheels, can't wait for the snow to see how they do, it should be a great set up though. They do stretch a little on the back wheels, but still should be fine __________________ Current: 2018 MSport x1 & 2009 Cayman S Former: 2013 BMW 335i XDrive M Sport 6spd Cobb Tuned '09 135i
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11-10-2011, 04:16 PM	#11
geebee New Member 0 Rep 9 Posts Drives: 2011 135i - M Sport Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Toronto iTrader: (0)	Go with a square setup in the winter; it balances handling front to rear to be roughly equal versus the rear traction balance on the summer stock setup.
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11-10-2011, 04:41 PM	#12
KingOfJericho Major General 2452 Rep 7,341 Posts Drives: Yes Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: CT iTrader: (1) Garage List 2010 135i Coupe [5.26]	I also do a 17" square setup for the winter. Works VERY well! __________________ The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Bimmerpost. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee High Altitude Hemi \| 2010 S4 Sold \| 2010 BMW 135i Retired \| 2006 Lotus Exige Sold
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11-10-2011, 06:14 PM	#13
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)	17" gives you more flex in the sidewall and more protection from wheel damage. Usually 17" offers more options in the studless category. __________________ 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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11-11-2011, 06:29 AM	#14
ZIPNBYE Let's save military ranks for those who earn it! 45 Rep 1,161 Posts Drives: ...on the Ragged Edge Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Edmonton, AB, Canada iTrader: (6) Garage List 2013 BMW e92 M3 Cou ... [7.50] 2013 BMW e84 X1 xDr ... [7.00]	17" square here for going on three winters, running Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5's. The car will go through anything that winter throws at it (last winter was a return to 1970's era snowfalls here). Never got stuck once... __________________ Richard 2013 BMW M3 Individual -- Fire Orange (sold) 2013 BMW X1 xDrive35i M-Sport -- Valencia Orange (sold) 2011 BMW 1-series M Coupe (#205/220) -- Valencia Orange (sold) 2009 BMW 135i M-Sport Coupe -- Space Grey (sold)
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11-11-2011, 07:26 AM	#15
Elsabor67 aiming for 450..... 303 Rep 2,910 Posts Drives: Totaled :-( Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Louisiana iTrader: (28) Garage List 2009 135i [10.00]	Stick with 17's square. I have 205/50's Michelins on mine right now. Last year I had Pirelli Sottozero's and had no problems getting around in the Bavarian winter. __________________ Quote from Ezeedee regarding car mods: "you're only done when you sell the car "
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11-11-2011, 08:05 AM	#16
MAR Private First Class 9 Rep 144 Posts Drives: E46 325i & 128 M Sport Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Arlington, VA iTrader: (0)	Danke!
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11-17-2011, 04:15 PM	#18
BrokenVert Resident Kerbalnaut 477 Rep 10,703 Posts Drives: Topless Brute/Hybrid Boogaloo Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Fahrvergnügen/NY iTrader: (0)	This is what happens when you use 18" wheels as winter rims... __________________
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11-18-2011, 06:23 AM	#21
jkp1187 Unindicted co-conspirator 66 Rep 1,734 Posts Drives: to work, mostly. Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Detroit, Michigan iTrader: (0)	Another vote for 17" square set up and for getting dedicated winter wheels. Blizzaks have served me well for two winters (including getting caught in that memorable blizzard in 2010.) I also picked up a set of snow chains for extreme situations, although that's more for peace of mind insurance than anything.
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