Date: Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:21:31 -0400
Reply-To: "Chris S." <szpejankowski@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: "Chris S." <szpejankowski@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Tires
In-Reply-To: <8CEEBD198EDA20E-6F4-44C3F@webmail-m101.sysops.aol.com>
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I liked the RA08 in the larger 195r14 size. They sliced through standing water and provided a reasonable ride. I bought them from Discount Tires.
I've since upgraded to 16'' wheels.
Chris.
Wysłane z iPhone'a
Dnia Apr 18, 2012 o godz. 19:24 Steven Sittser <ssittservl@AOL.COM> napisał(a):
> It's time for new tires, and I'm looking for advice.
>
> I know, there's lots of tire discussion on the list and elsewhere. I've read through much of it. It's hard to distill it down to what's currently available and appropriate for my van, though. The variety of sizes and options, and the consequences of using different sizes, are somewhat bewildering
>
> Here's what I'm looking for:
>
> I have an '88 Westy with stock wheels. I don't want to change to new wheels. These roll. I like them.
>
> What's most important to me is good, safe handling and traction. I want good traction in the rain. We don't get enough snow here (St. Louis) to justify snow tires or chains, but, when we do get snow, I'd like to be able to drive to work safely, even when the roads aren't quite cleared yet, or if it's a bit icy.
>
> I guess I'm OK with not-quite-stock-size tires that make my speedometer read slightly differently, if it's worth the bit of extra trouble. The speedometer's 10 mph off now anyway. (I need to open it up and fix it.)
>
> I've used Michelin Agilis 61's in the past, and mostly been happy with them. I would have liked better rain and snow traction, though.
>
> My most recent set of tires is Hankook RA08's. I think I like them a little better than the Michelins - I think the rain and snow traction might be a bit better. They didn't last nearly as long as the Michelins, though: the Michelins lasted seven and a half years but the Hankooks lasted only three and a half years.
>
> I guess my current plan is to get the Hankooks again - I guess the possibly somewhat better traction is a good trade for the durability.
>
> However, I wondered if there might be a better choice out there somewhere. Does anyone have experience with a different tire that they'd recommend, for stock wheels, ideally with better rain and snow handling? Greater durability and lower price are always a plus, too.
>
> Best tires I ever had (not on the Vanagon): Bridgestone Turanza T's. Great traction and handling in all weather.
>
> Worst: Dean Quasars. Inexpensive, and wore like iron, but pretty slippery in rain or snow. I was excited when they finally wore out, and I replaced them with the Turanza T's (which I'd already grown to like on my wife's car).
>
> Thanks for any help!
>
> - Steven Sittser
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