New Winter means new gear!

[Bridgecity]

^ Thanks for that reference to the Tirerack test, hadn't seen that one.  Been focusing too much on the Tyre Reviews channel, which might not make much sense because the many of the tires he tests aren't available here, haha.  I guess I just like his vids.

[Blueprint]

Looks great!

It's been so warm out I haven't even considered putting the winter tires on.

Yes it has been quite mild indeed.  My wife and I were out in our T-shirts and jeans for a walk just last week! 

Here in Quebec however, the law mandates a hard date for the changeover.  Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15 inclusively. 

I am never pressured by the law, myself.  I've been using dedicated winter tires for about 30 years voluntarily.  I usually get my tires changed anywhere from Oct 30 to Nov 15.  I've seen what happens when drivers are caught unawares by the capriciousness of Mother Nature.  Nothing quite like that heart stopping sensation of hitting the brakes in slush and sliding toward that intersection and a very red light to make you vow to never get caught unprepared again.

The worst day to be out driving is the first snowy day of winter.  It's as if we are suffering from collective amnesia with regards to driving.  For Montreal, that day is this Thursday and going into Friday.  Several cm of snow are due that day, starting just around evening rush hour Thursday and finishing just before morning rush hour Friday . 

I am so happy I'm retired.

This week's presser is on SUMMER tires    ... but for once I'm returning it midweek as I'm flying off on vacation on Friday.

I completed the tire swaps on the four family vehicles last weekend, so we're good.

[random006]

Would be interested to hear your opinion on the IcePeaks if you go that route. 

I expect I'll be happy with them, as I was with the WS80's, DM-V2's, and WS-90's I've had on various vehicles.  Like every other Blizzak generation, they're basically dominating all the winter tire tests, so I doubt I'll be disappointed.

I had the WS-80s and found them to be very good in straight line stuff, both stopping and starting.

Lateral traction, however, was another story.  Turning caused the Crosstrek's rear to slide out on more than one occasion. As well, the car kept shifting in and out of snow ruts caused by other vehicles. This was seen mainly in fresh snow during a storm.

Hence the switch to the Michelins.