need to decide which wheels for winter setup
 

I decided to get a set of winter tires for the X5 for ski seasons. Probably will leave them on the car between Dec. and April each year, so they will end up getting at least 1/3 of the yearly miles.

Looking at the Blizzak LM-25 4x4 in 255-55-18 which are now on close-out at TireRack.

I found a set of nearly new 2009 X3 wheels in 18x8, 46mm offset locally.
They look like this:
http://www.dragtimes.com/images/18595-2009-BMW-X3.jpg

http://pics.niello.com/00095535f.jpg

alternatively I am looking at this wheel from TireRack:
http://wheelworx.com.au/stock_wheels...ce_Coating.jpg

Factory wheels are probably better wheels, but I like the look of the Elbrus a bit better. Both are same 18x8 size. Cost works out basically the same.

Thoughts?

jeez - no thoughts or opinions out there?

Well - I jumped on the 18" X3 wheels. they look brand new. Came off a 2009 X3 - the guy went to 17" instead because he likes the smoother ride and cheaper tires.
Kinda funny that I was picking up the 18s as a 2" reduction for a winter tire set-up!!

They should work out just fine.

Interestingly, the wheels are made by Ronal. And you could eat off these - inside or out.

I like the Elbrus look...powdercoated would be a nice winter touch. I'm currently running 20's style 87 - 275 all-around on dedicated M&S Vredestein wintrac rubbers.

Nice looking wheels. :thumbup: Will they fit the E53??




If I were looking for snow duty, I would try and go as low in width as possible (235/65-17) for better traction and deeper dig into the snow.

X5 and X3 have basically the same offset, so yes.

17" wheels do not clear the 4.6is brakes - they are 13.5 or 14" front rotor size. Huge-ass things.

I have OEM sized 235-40-18 Pirelli Snowsports on my Audi S4 and it has tremendous snow traction. I expect a good result with the 4.4i non sport OEM size tire of 255-55-18 using good snow tires. I could actually go with 235-60-18's, but I think the 255's will provide better handling during the winter months since I plan to leave these on all winter. And it doesn't snow where I live, only needed for ski trips on the weekends - I go quite a bit to the Sierra's in nasty conditions typically.

Thanks for the wheel info... good to know.

I am in SF Bay area myself. :thumbup:

I am in San Jose too!!

was checking out that Elbrus but did not come in bigger size.... i like the looks but still preffers oem.

How do those 20's work for you? I picked up a set of style 87 20 inchers for the winter and just bought Pirelli Scorpion I&S for them (265/45 front, 295/40 rear).

post up pics! you should prob get some spacers with those wide fenders in the back. it might look stupid without..