Date:         Tue, 22 Apr 2003 22:33:47 -0700
Reply-To:     Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Subject:      Re: 15" Wheel Question XCA tire info
Comments: To: George Thorburn <thorgk@accesscomm.ca>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed

I just made a rough measurement of the Michelin XCA 205/70x14 tires
and measured a circumference of about 81"

If my math is correct, this works out to about 782 revs per mile.
The speedo on my Westy, that was originally equipped with Michelin
LXT(?) 205/70R14 tires has 805 stamped on it.

So, that would lead you to believe that the Michelin XCA tires are about
3% larger than the original tires.
These tires are rated at 2770lbs at 65psi.  (Load rating 109/107P)

I do notice that acceleration is a little slower, but just barely
noticeable.
They are unflappable in crosswinds because of the stiff sidewalls,
however the downside to this is that there is a little more lean in hard
turns as the tire does not flex all that much.
But they have a very solid predictable feel to them. Fairly quiet as
well. They also seem to wear extremely well, so I would expect to get
quite a few miles out of them.


Todd
'88 Westy



George Thorburn wrote:

> Todd
> What size are your XCA tires?  How is the handling etc.  Does the size
> affect your gearing/power?
> Thanks
> George
> '85 Westfalia