[GapBoyPCS]

Kalos,Sep 25 2004, 02:47 PM Wrote:One way or another, I'll be using genuine snow tires this winter. Probably means another set of rims. I've read several places that the extra width of 17" tires doesn't buy better traction, and that taller 16" tires are actually better in snow and probably cheaper than 17" tires. So I'm looking for 16" Focus-able rims - either new or in good condition, with or without useable snow tires. I would also consider 17" rims. I'm in the Kitchener/Waterloo region, and would consider driving a maximum of 100km to pick up the rims.

So, what a good 16" snow tire with the right external diameter so that the speedometer isn't off ?

Thinner is better. The thinking is that your vehicle won't have to "push" through as much snow and slush with a thinner width tire, compared to a wider tire. Like you said, 17's are a bit more expensive than 16's, but the price differential depends on the tire and what you're looking for.

CTA Motorsports in Brampton deals with BAT Inc. a lot. If you were interested going with the rims I posted, you could contact Chris Wong at chris@ctamotorsports.com. I'm sure he can meet you somewhere in Mississauga near the 401.

Milton is only 72.5 km from here (Waterloo).

As for concerns about throwing off the speedometer with 16-inch rims, you won't have a problem if you stick with 205/50R16. This is the stock 16-inch size of the Focus. In terms of a brand, that's your call. It will depend on your driving. If you do LOTS of highway driving, you want a minimum of an H-rated winter tire. You'll sacrifice some snow and ice traction; however, you'll make up for it with more sidewall stability and fewer chances of melting them due to heat. If it's city driving you'll be doing, you may be able to get by with a Q-rated tire.