Topic: Alternate tire sizes

[keithb]

I'm shopping for studded winter tires for a 2019 Nissan Kicks SV with 205/55-17s. Cannot find studded tire in this size so if anyone can advise of one then thank you in advance.
Alternatively I've been looking at 205/50-17s. This size is a bit shorter but there are studded tires in this size. The problem is that at it breaks the 3% rule for diameter /circumference variation from stock ( diameter shrinks by 3.1% ) and I know the reasons for the 3% rule (affects ABS and some of the other built in "smarts"). So my question- is the 3% number simply a rule of thumb or is it a more hard and fast rule. Have to wonder as even a single size can vary by around 2% going from new to the wear bars.

[blur911]

Do 16" fit?

205-60R16 would be a better fit if you can go with 16" winter rims, which I think you can

[dirtyjeffer]

where do you live?...can you use studded tires and do you actually need them?

for size, try 205/60/16...that one should match for you.

[keithb]

I live within sight of the most easterly point in the country and need to ascend a steep driveway in winter so ,IMO, I do need the studs.

[dirtyjeffer]

I live within sight of the most easterly point in the country and need to ascend a steep driveway in winter so ,IMO, I do need the studs.

it was more about "are you allowed to run studded tires" where you live...you can't use them here for example (southwestern ontario)...if grip is such an important thing for you, i'm surprised you didn't get a vehicle with AWD...an AWD vehicle with quality winter rubber would be a beast there.

[capriracer]

How about 215/50R17 ?  Or up a size to 215/55R17?

[keithb]

Thanks - I didn't want to go too wide but the 215/50 17 is only width up and  does provide for several studdable choices and at a far more reasonable price than the limited number of 205/55- 17s  on the market (all w/o studs)