tire question

[6670charger]

It probably isn't a big deal, but thought I'd solicit opinions from the masses. Amongst everything else I've done with my car recently, it also needs new tires. The manual calls for 195/65-R14 as the recommended tire, however, that width is becoming increasingly more difficult to find. Would a 185/65/14 tire handle that much more poorly due to a few centimeters less rubber on the road, or would it really make that much difference? Also, snow tires seem to be next to impossible to find in 195 width.

[patsbimmer1]

You may not notice on your daily drive but towards the limit is where you would notice. What i do know is that any manufacturer warranty will be void because its not the oe size.

[Boris3]

If you're sticking with 14s consider 195/60/14 for your non snows. I'm running General Altimax HPs. With smaller side walls the ride is a bit rougher but fine.

Snow tires you want narrower width. I'm running Altimax Arctics in 185/70/14

[YoungCR]

I can check the size when I get home this weekend but the hankook's I had on my bottle caps were great tires.

[6670charger]

Had some Hankooks on the 520i I had in Germany a few years ago and really liked them. Not sure how they are in snow, but they sure drove nice in dry and wet weather.

I've considered 60 series tires. Maybe should look into them a little more closely too. Need to find something in the next few weeks before the snow flies. Both my front ones are nearly bald. New or gently used is fine. Just need to get some decent rubber on the road.

Thanks.

[Earl]

You're in luck: http://www.wibimmers.com/board/index.php?/topic/4000-fs-new-14-snow-tires-100/

Just do it=)

[straight6pwr]

yeah those are good tires. same tread pattern as nokian hakkas, hancook iPike, etc. i always used 185s for the e30 for winter. less overall grip, but helps not getting stuck with the deeper snow.

[6670charger]

straight6pwr said:

yeah those are good tires. same tread pattern as nokian hakkas, hancook iPike, etc. i always used 185s for the e30 for winter. less overall grip, but helps not getting stuck with the deeper snow.

Cool. That's what I want. Just don't need to get stuck. I'll look for some 60's later in the season for summer. Thinking Hankook right now as I've had good luck with them and they're reasonably priced.