X5m wheels 20” or 19” for snow

[coolmayank]

I found a set of snow tires posted , these might be a good choice... My current wheel size is 20” and the tires are 275/40/20 and 315/35/20 , should i consider 19” rims with snow tires or try to find snow tires for 20” rim


So I was wondering if I should look for a set of snow tires which will cost nearly 1k or more or grab these wheels for 1k including the rims and snow tires so has anyone considered smaller size rims. I personally like to stay closed to stock or OEM Specs

[greddy91]

As long as they clear the brakes shouldn't be a big deal, but 255 is pretty narrow IMO. If you don't care about the look or the inability to get traction, then maybe not an issue.

I'm leaning toward another direction in buying 22" wheels and tires for summer use and then relegating the OEM 20" to winter use.

Ebay 22" wheels are right at $1000, even tire size tires (20" and 22") are much more reasonable than odd (19 and 21).

Odd numbers cost is pretty ridic.

[Qsilver7]

I run smaller diameter + narrower winter wheel/tires on both my Bimmers. Narrower tires perform better in deep snow...and taller tires help with irregular pavement (pot holes & heaves) that occurs with the obligatory winter freeze/thaw cycles...less chance of wheel damage with the "extra cushion". As long as the overall diameter/circumference is within 3% (+/-) the recommended tire sizes BMW recommends in your owners manual and on the tire inflation chart on your driver's door...you should be good. You can also "google" for a tire size calculator if you want to use a tire that is slightly narrower/taller but still within spec (and fits your wheels).

• X5 - I run 275/40/20 (f) & 315/35/20 (r) for spring/summer/fall....then swap on 235/60/18 winter set-up
  
• E38 - I run 235/55/18 (f) & 255/45/18 (r) for spring/summer/fall...then swap on 225/60/16

For me, the increased traction, turning , & stopping performance of my winter wheel/tire combo is worth it...I'll live with "form" over "fashion" in this case. Besides...wrapped around a tree or off in a ditch isn't all that "pretty".

[gan23]

Even with the 19" suggested runflat winter kit (255/50/19), one of my tire got swallowed this winter

[Qsilver7]

OUCH! It got you good