Road trip on 20" w/performance tires
 

I just joined Xoutpost after stumbling upon it during a Google search. Thought I'd make my first post in regards to what I was searching for in the first place.

Just purchased a CPO 2008 X5 4.8i with the 20" wheels and performance tires. Obviously I'll be purchasing a winter setup later this year.

I'm planning a road trip to Montana in late September, early October. The total trip entails about 4,000 miles round trip, most of which are on the interstate. I'll likely encounter a few gravel roads, and a little snow is possible that time of year, although typically only in the higher elevations. The weather can typically range from the 50's to the 70's and beautiful that time of year.

Would you swap over to an 18" winter setup before the trip, or wait until after the trip? One of the best roads around is out there, and I'd love to drive it on the performance rubber. I just worry about the weather taking a turn for the worse, and being stuck on summer tires.

Thanks in advance for all opinions.

I did a trip from South Carolina to Montana and back last September on 19" Diamaris.

I wouldn't do it again.

In your case, you are talking about going in October. I would put (at least All Season tires - and maybe even winters) on before the trip because you never know when the snow will come and trap you.

Last September (Mid - Edit, Checked my records - trip was actually at start of September), I had to cut my trip through Yellowstone short because the park was closed in by snow.

I'd toss some A/S tires on there. You'll still enjoy the handling plenty.

-Cyrus

That is what I was originally thinking, but I can't find A/S RFT's for the 20" wheels (at Tire Rack anyway). Therefore, I just figured I'd keep what I have for a summer setup, and get some inexpensive wheels with Blizzaks for the winter.

I haven't seen any A/S RFTs in the 20" staggered setup, however the Continental DWS are A/S (not RFT if that matters to you) that are pretty well regarded on this board.

-Cyrus

Thanks Cyrus. I was looking at those on Tire Rack. I'd prefer RFT, but it isn't a big deal since I have a spare.

Thanks for all the input!

Id also take a look at toyo proxes S/T II. great all season tires