Opinions Needed: 20s or 18s for snow

[mtX5]

So here in VA, we haven't really seen any snow yet, but its coming. I'm debating whether or not to keep my 20 inch staggered 87s with toyos or replace them with my 18s with michelin energy all seasons (which have been up for sale). Last year my 20s outperformed in the snow, as we don't get too much around here. My main concerns are the harmful chemicals and de-icers on the wheel finish, and a family member who might drive my vehicle and slide into a curb because she thinks all-wheel drive = invincible in snow lol . I would rather this happen to my 18s. But if I use my 18s, I probably won't be selling them anymore, and would therefore lose extra $$.

So the question is: Should I be extra careful and preserve my 20s and use the 18s this winter, or keep the 20s all year around?

[cmyX6go]

Originally Posted by mtX5

. Last year my 20s outperformed in the snow, as we don't get too much around here. My main concerns are the harmful chemicals and de-icers on the wheel finish, and a family member who might drive my vehicle and slide into a curb because she thinks all-wheel drive = invincible in snow lol

My main concern would be safety but hey, that's just me. Bite the bullet and use the 18s.

I can't imagine the 20s performed well. I had snows on 18s on my E53. Drove for really the first time on ice this weekend in my E70 with all seasons on 19s. I missed my snows.

[mtX5]

Originally Posted by cmyX5go

My main concern would be safety but hey, that's just me. Bite the bullet and use the 18s.

I can't imagine the 20s performed well. I had snows on 18s on my E53. Drove for really the first time on ice this weekend in my E70 with all seasons on 19s. I missed my snows.

i mean the 20s performed will enough for the amount we get here. when it snows they clean up all the roads almost instantly, the only thing that has snow are neighborhoods and parking lots. so i took the X to one last year to test out the 20s (back when they were 'new') and i floored it going straight and all the systems kept it in check. but when turning sharply or at a higher speed, then the problems started arising lol, but i would assume any tire would have issues at high speed, sharp turning in snow or ice!

But i am leaning towards the 18s for most of the previous reasons, just slowly trying to convince myself. Safety is also a concern too, i think i left that out haha. But the 20s just look so damn good in the snow!!

[cmyX6go]

Originally Posted by mtX5

But i am leaning towards the 18s for most of the previous reasons, just slowly trying to convince myself. Safety is also a concern too, i think i left that out haha. But the 20s just look so damn good in the snow!!

I know, I feel your pain. I would wait till the last possible minute to put on my winter shoes. One year I put on the snows the day before a major storm...in January I'm in central NJ and the winters have been mild, adding to the procrastination. As many have said, it's not just the snow, it's the cold temperatures. You'll feel the grip difference even on dry pavement.

[TwinsPoppa]

Originally Posted by cmyX5go

I know, I feel your pain. I would wait till the last possible minute to put on my winter shoes. One year I put on the snows the day before a major storm...in January I'm in central NJ and the winters have been mild, adding to the procrastination. As many have said, it's not just the snow, it's the cold temperatures. You'll feel the grip difference even on dry pavement.

Around here normally you'd be okay. However, we do occassionally get snow and worse - ice. Just keep an eye on the weather and who's got the car. Hold out as long as you can and use the 18s when you have to.

However, safety should be the FIRST thing on your mind. You can always get more wheels/tires later - your life however ...

Me I'm running the Advan STs year-round (summer tires). If the weather gets bad we have other cars for that.