4.6is - 18" rims for studded winter tire options?

[Adas]

Hi all,
I'm looking to run some studded winter tires on a 4.6is (I live in Snowmass, so I really want to have studs rather than just get some winter tires for the stock 20" rims - although if someone knows of some good studded tires for that configuration, please let me know!)

Any thoughts? Discount Tire here in Glenwood Springs (CO) have suggested some 18" rims which they could then put some studded tires on. The ones they have suggested are the Drag DR-37 I think - they kind of look like an E46 M3 CSL rim if you know what those look like (albeit in a smaller set-up as the CSL ran 19" from memory). The full package (rims, tires, studs and on the car) runs at $1,300 which is pretty fair. I can't find any pictures online with an E53 running those rims though, I'm just wondering what other 4.6is owners are running in the mountains or the deep snow?

Thanks!
Adas

[upallnight]

I would look at Denver Craigslist and see if you can get a set of used genuine BMW 18" rims. The problem with after market rims is that the hub center is bored out to fit a variety of cars. To make them work with various cars they must use a hubcentric spacer. I have used aftermarket wheels with hubcentric spacers when I had an E34 Touring with aftermarket wheel for winter tires. You must be careful when you switch wheels so that you don't lose the hubcentric spacer or the next time you put back on the aftermarket wheel you will notice a vibration in the steering wheels.

denver auto parts - wheels & tires "bmw x5" - craigslist

[pnoyako85]

pirelli scotto is your best choice they only come in square

265/335/20

[pnoyako85]

pirelli scotto is your best choice they only come in square

265/335/20

[Joshdub]

I'm not a huge fan on those wheels but to each their own.

Take a look at tirerack too. They will mount and road force balance tires for free when buying a wheel tire combo.

[Clockwork]

Nokian Hakkapillitta 8 SUV studded. best winter tire ever. bar none and in 18" they are worth their weight in gold.

[Adas]

Thanks Clockwork, I have heard that the Nokian Hakka's (such a mouthful) are a pretty awesome tire (if not a little pricey!) I also see that Pirelli do in fact offer studs in the 20" staggered option, in the Winter Carving Edge.

And Joshdub - fair call, yes, I'm not sure those wheels will look good on the 4.6is, any suggestions on a better looking rim? Should I be looking at 19" as well, or will that be just as difficult/expensive tires-wise as the 20"?

And Pnoyako85 - I can't seem to find the Pirelli Scotto?