I have ordered a 2010 Clubman which should be at my dealer (Portland OR.) in Feb. 2010.
What is the tire size that comes on the Clubman with standard 15" rims and factory all season tires (not RF)?

I may need to buy chains before I go to the dealer and need to know the chain size to get. There are a few places where chains may be required in my 200 mile trip from the dealer to home.

Any recommendations on chain brand, type, style etc. for the MINI.
Thanks

 

175 65 R 15 is the stock 15" size. Something fine-linked is needed. So far I have been afraid any chain will beat the wheel well or suspension parts up, so I haven't put any on.

I read on mini2.com about the "Autosock." Amazon has them for $69 a pair in stock right now. I'm not recommending them since I haven't actually tried them out, but I'm thinking about picking a set up.

 

You should be OK with cable "chains". They require less clearance than chains. The problem is not wheel-well clearance, but sidewall clearance to the strut. Always good to have those chains with you because Oregon can be pretty nasty about demanding them even in light snow.

 

Do they have anything like this for the OEM 17" in 205/45-17 size?

 

It is my understanding that cable chains can only be put on the narrower 15" wheels. So, your 17"ers are too wide. Somebody can correct me if I'm wrong.

 

A friend of mine has the spikes spider snow chain for his Volvo V70. I'm not sure if it will fit on MINIs without any issues. http://www.spikes-spiders.com/. Kinda of pricey IMO for a snow chain.