Tire Size Strategy For Summer/ Winter Tires And Different Wheel Sizes

[fredygump]

I feel like I'm trying to solve a puzzle! Winter is coming and I want to decide on a tire plan/ strategy before I commit to a tire size. There are a few moving parts.


1) How important is the diameter of the spare tire? If I am switching between two different tire diameters, what size spare tire would you have? Would you A) have an average between the two, B) have 2 spare tires, or C) keep the stock spare and hope for the best?


2) If tire diameters are the same, but they are on different wheel sizes, which wheel size would you use for summer vs winter? Choice is between 17" and 18" wheels (I already have both sets of wheels.)


Plan 1: Optimizing traction

Summer: 255/85r17 Baja Boss (34.6")
Winter: 265/70r18 Nokian LT3 (32.6")
Spare: Split the difference?


Plan 2: Optimizing for same size

Summer: 275/70r18 Baja Boss (33.7")
Winter: 285/70r17 Nokian LT3 (33.4")
spare: same diameter

(Both tires come in both sizes, so I can flip which wheel for summer or winter.)

I like the baja boss in 255/85r17 because it is a unicorn, so it's like saving an endangered species! (lol!) But seriously, reviews are good, and they are made in USA. The Nokians are not the cheapest winter tire, but I already have Nokians for my GTI. They are supposed to be one of the best. They've been good, and they have held up for a few seasons.

I am open to suggestions on tires, or clever ideas on tire/ wheel combinations.

Sponsored

 

[GSPHerder]

Ive been doing it every year, I run two sets of tires. Mud terrains for hunting seasons, then AT's for the rest of the year.

I cant ever come close to fitting a spare so i don't even bother. I do carry tire plugs, air compressor, etc. when I'm gonna be out in the woods.

Main reason I run BFG's, I don't worry about flats they are hands down the toughest tires.

Generally speaking looking at rims and manufactures, you'll get more options with a 17" rim so if possible Id lean that way.

As far as tire size, for the MT's I run a big tough 35", for all else AT driving I go to a 9" wide tire just because they are much lighter than the MT's.

 

[Dirt]

I have two sets of AT ten ply's; studded up one set, replaced the spare with an OEM all on 17" wheels. Throw in a set of quality tire chains for the winter. Unless there's a need, keep it simple.

 

[IDontWorkForTheWaterCo]

I just kept the stock size with my snows.

Sponsored