Dough1397

I need a new set of winter tires this year. The LM-32 seem the "sportiest" or best handling, but aside from that I am a little lost. I spend 65% of my time on the highway (between Toronto and Waterloo) and the other 35% in either city.

What are the strong and weak points of these three contenders?

Dough1397

Update: Decided on the LM-32 as much of my driving is on the highway and the WS-80 would wear quickly and handle poorly. The Xi3 would also sacrifice handling. Finally, I can often opt not drive and wait until the roads are cleaned up.

Original post:
Sizing will be 225/50R18 on a 18x8 or 18x8.5 wheel. The new wheel I am considering is 18x8.5, but I am thinking this might be a little "stretch".

Stanford Chiu

iTrader: (1)

I'm planning on going 245/45/18 on 18x8.5 (for rears) on LM-32 and the same as you (225/50/R18 on 18x8) for fronts.

The spec guide from Bridgestone doesn't recommend anything beyond 8" width for 225/50/R18

reddragonpryde

please post how they are, i was debating the same.
OEM coupe wheels are 225 on a 8.5, also aren't thinner tires better for snow (according to tire rack, i dont know)

Dough1397

I will update when I get them installed however that wont be for another 3 weeks.

My tire shop said 225/50R18 on 8.5" wheels is not problem. The OE fronts are indeed 225/45R19 on 8.5" wheels which would mean less sidewall to "stretch" to fit an 8.5" wheel.

I passed on the "new to me" 8.5" wheel option, they were not in great shape. I'll be sticking with my 18x8 +40 wheels.

Stanford Chiu

iTrader: (1)

I just got the LM-32's installed, they definitely feel looser on the highway than my worn V12 EVOs. Not a noticeable noise difference, even with the windows down. No rain today in Seattle I'll hit the mountains for some trips later so I'll keep this updated.

Yes thinner tires are better for snow, but it snows in Seattle about once every two years. I mostly got these for the capability to go up to the mountains for ski/cabin trips and I'll mostly be traversing plowed highways so the extra width is not too big a deal and helps with everyday putting around in the dry.

Neal@tirerack

iTrader: (2)

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