Snow tires for Freelanders

[Bozoman]

I read with interest the thread regarding 18" wheels and agree that the thin sidewalls are not really a good idea for off road. However, I am looking for a decent set of snow tires for a 2003 freelander and would appreciate any suggestions (Cooper, etc.). The car came with 17" rims, and I could use these or go with a 15" or 16" rim (?). My other concern is ground clearance, so the overall diamter should be at least what's there now (225/55/R17). I think the next tallest increases the height by about 4 inches or so, which may have a tendency to gear it too high (?). Any thoughts would be appreciated.....

[Rovin4life]

We install alot of Nokia Snow tires for both Jags and LR and they do quite well.

you will need to replace all four if you want snow tires though.

[HMBFreelander]

Do a search on www.tirerack.com for snows for 17" rims. I don't think there is much there. The Pirelli all season tires in 225/55-17 are rated better for snow than the Synchrones and are cheaper.

If you want to go to 16" rims then a lot of options open up. Most of the Freelander owners who drive in the Sierras swear by BFG TA/KOs which are also good off-road tires. You can get them in 225/70-16 and use them successfully on the Freelander without a lift. They also give you about 1/2" of lift over the Synchrones. The next size up is 225/75-16 but without a lift you will get some rubbing. Also they are 29" tires so the loss of torque to the ground is about 8% - probably more than you want.

Hope this helps.