Winter Tires, which are best?

[abronco1]

Hi Everyone,I am curious how many people in MI use snow tires, and what brand tire they use? As I mentioned in a previous post, I have only found the Bridgestone Blizzaks that will fit my 17 rims, is this true, or are there other tires out there?-Eric

[MadBill]

I'm not in MI, but Ontario is close enough, weather-wise, so...There are a number of snow tires for the 17" rims. Among other sites re same, try: http://www.tirerack.com or: http://www.discounttiredirect.comMany people however don't want to expose their nice aluminum wheels to the salt, nor do they want the hassle, damage potential and cost of twice-yearly tire changes and balancing. Ergo, they park the performance tires and rims for the winter and go with either stock 16" rims & 205/55 snows, or skinner (& cheaper) 195/65s on steel rims (which are felt to bite better in deep snow). An additional advantage is a much wider choice of tires and price ranges.For the record, I sold my stock steel wheels and tires before I even took delivery of my base Vibe and used the money to buy 195/65 x 15 Dunlops Winter Sport M2s on cheap steel rims. I am fitting a set of fat tires on 17" rims soon for the summer.

[m4VibeGT]

I'm nowhere near MI, but I did get snow tires for the winter. I got the Dunlop Winter Sport M2 225/14HR17 from tirerack.com along with four 17 inch allow wheels. the Dunlop Sport M2 has a lower and wider profile than the OEM 17 tires. Overall, I was very satisfied with the performace of these winter tires.

[NovaResource]

I agree with MadBill. Buy some 16" tires and steel wheels as a package from a place like Discount Tires or TireRack. Save your aluminum wheels from the harsh winter.I bought my Vibe with the base 16" steel wheels and I use them for the winter. I bought an aftermarket set of 17" wheels and tires for the rest of the year.http://www.tires.comhttp://www.tirerack.com

[Sub-Vibe-R]

To get enven more cheap tire, go with 15". It fit well and it is less expensive then 17" and 16", and you will save your 17" rims.I had Bridgestone Blizzak on my Montana and now I have GoodYear Ultra Grip Ice on the Vibe. Both are good but, IMHO, Blizzak are better, but wear faster.

[abronco1]

Thanks to everyone who has replied to my inquiry. How much would it run me for a set of 4(steel rims) and 15" tires? I am on a limited budget so Blizzaks maybe a no go, but other winter tire suggestions would be appreciated!