Date:         Tue, 21 Nov 2000 22:30:27 -0800
Reply-To:     Craig Spaeth <spaeth@GORGE.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Craig Spaeth <spaeth@GORGE.NET>
Subject:      Re: Snow Tires & Syncro Shopping
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For dedicated snow tires I am a firm believer that there are none better than the Nokia Hakapelliita. They sound obscure but I know out on this West Coast Les Schwab carries them. I started using them about 9 yrs ago simply because that was what the ice racers use. I don't know if that still holds true, but they are amazing tires. These are becoming a major brand here and have been a major
brand in other parts of the world. I had to order my first set out of New York now I can even buy them in Hood River OR. That is a big gain in accessibility.

If you don't need the extra size get yourself a VW Quantum Syncro instead of the Vanagon syncro. The 4 wheel drive system on the Quantum will give you much more traction than the Vanagon. You can completely lock up 3 of your four tires using the locking diff and with studded snows you can pretty much climb trees. They are a little harder to find but for $1500-$3500 you should be able to
come up with a decent one. The motors will do 250,000+ miles and even stock clutches will last 175,000. The Vanagon has much more room and way more ground clearance but if you are talking about on road traction you can't beat the Quantums.

Craig
the Gorge VW club