Originally Posted by 335xray

Tim,

I think most others have covered the point pretty well that it is the tire compound that determines your traction especially in the cold and snow/ice. I guess I figured you would have known that living in Denver and having owned several BMWs.

As for my 2 X5s with 20" wheels, I knew what I was getting into before I purchased both trucks and had a dedicated set of winter wheels and tires ready before the trucks where even delivered. My dealer made sure I was aware that the tires coming on both trucks were NOT meant for winter time, just as they did when I upgraded my 335xi sport package sedan to the 18"s with summer only tires. I had a dedicated set of winter wheels and tires then too.

I have seen the difference dedicated winter tires make first hand when I had a buddy with a RWD 325i get stuck on a tiny incline coming out of the hospital garage in his summer only tires. My friend luckily had a set of winter tires/wheels for sale and brought them to the garage where we swapped them out for his summers and he drove right out of the garage and home without a hiccup. He and I were both stunned at how different the car handled.

I have a young child I want as safe as possible and a job where I can't miss work just because the weather is bad. My wife is in a similar situation so I made sure on my "100k+ in BMWs" I spent $2100 each on a dedicated set of winter tires. Now I have the best dry and wet summer handling, and the best winter handling.

...back off soap box....

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