Hey Guys - I'm looking to replace my winter tires on my winter setup. Currently I have the tire rack set of 18x8 with Michelin XiCE in 225/50/18. I've always been extremely unhappy with this tire mainly due to its lack of any performance in cold weather. I know it sounds silly as to why would anyone want a performance winter tire but I shouldn't have to dread switching over to winter tires mainly due to the fact that I'll lose all grip and will be like driving on clouds for months.

Anyways, I'm looking at getting the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4, however the closest size they are offering is a 235/40/18 and a 225/40. I was just curious whether this will fit my wheels and a good setup? I know the sidewall is a bit thin for 18" wheels but I'm hoping it isn't too big of a change in ride quality. Any thoughts? The 235 tire will be better for my Q50 as I felt the 225 was waaay to thin and I know thin is good in the winter but that's why I was curious if the 235 will fit.

 

That's a pretty big change in diameter there, I think I'd look at something closer, perhaps in some Blizzaks. A 235/45 or 235/50 would be much better if you want a bit wider tread.

 

The 225/50 comes in around 26.89" diameter.
The 235/40 would be around 25.40" diameter.
The 225/40 would be around 25.09" diameter.

As blnewt said those sizes are not optimal.

 

Tirerack has an $80 rebate on Blizzaks right now too! And they have the 235/50/18 size
Here's a list of all their "Severe Snow Service Rated" sets in that size
https://www.tirerack.com/tires/TireS...earDiameter=17

 

I got a steal on some Blizzaks a few months back. I got 5 245/40/18's, 4 of them mounted on a set of Konig Villains for $300. One of the Villains needed a repair and I paid a buddy $75 to fix it so I am still in them for less than $400.

I'm actually looking forward to some snow this year to see how they really perform. I also haven't ran snow tires in probably 7 years. Just been running all seasons. With where I work now it gets sketchy at times due to West Virginia's inability to keep their roads clear.

 

So here's the thing, I really want the Michelin Alpin PA4 and these are the sizes they come in. https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires...ilot+Alpin+PA4

I guess my question is how do I make it work with the wheel I have or am I basically out of luck? I've had the Blizzaks before but if I'm going to spend, I'd rather spend on the best and the PA4 is the best. I guess the only other Blizzak I'd consider is the LM001 which does come in a 235/45.

 

It's a gray area TBH, 3% from OEM diameter is the common number that shouldn't be exceeded, but since you'd be running a square setup you "might" be able to push that a fair amount. I'd hate to tell you it's a go, then have your dash lights go crazy and you'd have to go to a closer size. That Blizzak in the 235/45 would be the way
I'd go if that tire is still within your needs.

 

Fair enough, Blizzak LM001 in 235/45 it is then. Many thanks again for the help! I'm excited to be able to utilize some performance aspect out of my new winter tires hopefully.

 

Look forward to your review of that setup, not that it would help me (since snow is a rarity) but would be very useful for those in your situation.