Hi, I'm running 17" stock run-flats and looking to get snow tires for this winter. I'd like to get 15" snow tires (since I will need steel rims as well), but not sure which parametres I should be looking at.

Would 185/65R15 or 175/65R15 fit my 2006 MCS? Any other 15" would work, in terms of snow performance? Any preferences in terms of brands?

Thanks, sorry this has been asked before.

 

I run 185/65/15 snows on my 2006 with no problems. For wheels I'm using a set of holies from a Cooper. I was not able to find a suitable snow tire in the 175/65/15 size. If you were able to that size would also work.

 

Both sizes you mesnioned work, ther are not many options in 175/65/15 -
There is more to select from in

185/65/15
or
195/60/15


The bigger the 1st #, the wider - and the wider the better on dry roads, conversleythe narrower sizes are more effective on snow.

Blizzak WS60 is best for bad weather,

Michein Pilot Alpin PA3 offer more blend on dry weather and bad weather.

Alex

 

I've run 185/65/15 Blizzaks and they were terrific. The narrower the better, but a 185 is still pretty narrow, and the combo is tall enough.

 

Thanks for the info guys, appreciated.

 

What, no knobbies on my MINI for the winter?

 

+1 here, except that I'm running Pirelli Winter Carving (studded) tires. I like this size, it's a very smooth-riding combination. Perfect for carving through winter roads!

 

Currently, I have the 5 spoke 17" all season Continental run flats on my Clubman. I scored a set of 84x-lite's for my winter rims and am looking for dedicated snow tires for them. They may not be the ideal winter rims, but they only cost me $188 for the set (only one had minor rashing).

So, what would my option(s) be?

 

Would most 15" steel rims fit? Or is there something I should look for? Thanks!

 

It seems as though steel rims are becoming a vanishing breed. Last winter Tire Rack had no steel rims available.

 

So I should look at the set taking up space in my garage as an investment?

AgentCoop, make sure to keep the offset around ET45, which is what all OEM 15" wheels are.

 

Sorry to hijack this thread, but I have a quick question for Alex. Will 15" wheels fit around R53 JCW brakes and suspension?

 

Yes, I have quite a few that will. With the correct tire size - no issues

Alex

 

What size snow tires should I use for 16" rims?

 

195/60R15 iPikes (no studs) on OEM holies here -- a bit wider than many winter setups but a great compromise for alternating winter driving conditions and dry pavement (since I leave them on for at least four months). Believe me, I drove through just about every kind of crap you can think of last winter up here in the northern tier (less wet snow > 6" deep) and never missed a beat.

 

195/55/16 or 205/50/16

Alex

 

I'm looking at a set of 195/55/15 snow tires for my 08" MC. Are there any issues with this width? Perhaps rubbing anything on the inside of the tire?

 

If snow performance is a top consideration I'd recommend 185/65/15.

 

My MINI service guy told me that 15" rims wouldn't fit over my calipers. He's recommending 16" rims, with 195/55/16. He's offered me Michelin X-ice for $200 per.

 

Your service guy is correct. Your 07 R56 MCS has larger brakes that my R53 MCS. I can run 15 inch wheels you can not, 16 inch for the R56 MCS. $200 per seems very high to me. I bet Alex at Tire Rack can beat that price.

 

Sure can $114 + shipping - X-ice 2 - the new ones!



Alex

 

I just ordered, a couple of weeks ago, from Alex at Tirerack a set of four Blizzaks on 15" rims that Alex has assured me do in fact fit on my 08 MCS. He says they test fit them before they sell them. Now you guys have me wondering. Looks like next week I'll try one on the front just to be safe. Not sure what kind of difference I can expect handling wise going from the 17" Conti Contacts to the Blizzaks snow tires. Hope my MINI won't handle like my old Chevy S-10 with them! I have come to just love corners.

 

I have 15's that clear - see the winter FAQ

Alex

 

No worries, we have done our homework.

With respect to the softer compound and and taller sidewalls the turn in wont be as crisp. Surley it wount make and "Iron Duke" of your mini!

 

Thanks for this! Do you ship to Canada?