Hi guys,

I've read a few threads on this topic but wanted to see if anyone cared to share their current snow setup for their Mini Countryman.

I have a 2011 Mini Countryman S FWD that I plan on driving between Oakland and Tahoe this winter.

The car came with 205/55R17 tires (runflats, may upgrade) and I'm interested in finding snow chains or cables that:

1. Fit with no issues (current 17" wheels a must)
2. Work with Caltrans chain requirements (ie: no snow socks, zip ties, etc)

Any and all advice, wisdom is welcome. Yes, I am aware my runflats suck. Yes, I understand tires better suited for snow will help. However, I am interested in discussing chains, not tires.

Thanks!!!

 

Just a note from many trips to Tahoe throughout my whole life. Get a set of Cable chains for your proper tire size. You only need them for the front set. After you find the right set I recommend a dry run of installing and removing them. Or you could pay to have a chain installer do that for you while you sip your hot beverage of choice from inside your comfy cozy Mini. I make that trip a lot in the winter which is when I sprang for a All4.

 

@italianrobot I appreciate it. I also thought a set of cable chains would be the right move for me. If anyone knows of a specific model that fits 205/55R17 tires, let me know!

 

I was thinking about getting some chains for my 2wd as well.

I do have some novice questions:
Are you supposed to drive slower on them?
Remove them after you have driven off snow?

I'll do some research and post if I find any for our 205/55/17 tires.

 

slower yes. usually chain controlled speed limit is 25-30 mph.

And you have to take them off when the chain control section is done... otherwise it tears up the roads.


https://tahoe.com/articles/lake-taho...n-requirements

 

UPDATE

This is the setup I ended up going with for trips up to Tahoe with my 2011 Mini Countryman S:

- Michelin X-Ice 3 215/55-17
- Shur Grip Snow Cables SZ335

Tires came on two weeks ago, and I just did a dry run with the snow chains -- everything works, no rubbing.

 

Just a quick follow-up on the snow set up for my non-ALL4 2011 Countryman S:

- Michelin X-Ice 3 215/55-17
- Shur Grip Snow Cables SZ335

This is easily the most fun I've had in a car driving in snow for long distances. I was passing Ford Raptors and Audi Allroads driving up to Tahoe.

The Michelin X-Ice 3 are simply amazing and the car handled beautifully.

 

Good for you. I think you will have many reliable miles with that setup.

I always found that being proficient at install/removal of chains/cables was the biggest obstacle. Practice, get good and quick at them and it is not a big deal. My hot tip is to throw a nasty windbreaker, some nasty gloves and a garbage bag in with (or near) the chains. When the time comes, put the jacket and gloves on, lay garbage bag flat near wheel, then get to it. This way you don't have to worry about nice ski clothes or getting AS wet.