530 Sport - Snow Chains or Spike Spyders??

[griff430]

As you may have gathered, I've just got a new car, and have a lot of questions about it...

I know the winter seems a long way off, what with all this sunshine we're having recently but I like to plan ahead. I'm going to be driving down to the Alps in my 530 Sport (which I'm quite looking forward to), but I've heard many conflicting stories about whether you can fit snow chains or not to one. I have the 18 inch wheels, so I'm guessing they're too big for chains (someone please correct me if I'm wrong)? Are Spike Spyders slimline enough to fit on the 18 inch wheels, because there seems to be very little clearence between the wheels and the wheel arch?

If anyone has any experience or advice on chains or Spike Spyders on 18 inch wheels, it would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Dan.

[Zod]

I'm a SpikeSpiders fan.

[griff430]

Is there sufficient clearence between the bodywork and the wheel if I've got 18 inch wheels? Sorry for all the questions, but I've got no experience with the Spike Spyders. I've only ever used chains.

[F355GTS]

I think chains are a no-no on the 18" rims as there is insufficient clearence between the inside rim and damper/ suspension components, only real alternative to spiders is to buy rims and winter tyres.

[griff430]

Is there enough clearance for Spyders on 18" rims between the wheel and the bodywork? I'm happy to use Spyders if they'll work. I don't fancy the whole winter tyres scenario to be honest. Just for one week in the snow.

[Zod]

griff430 said:

Is there enough clearance for Spyders on 18" rims between the wheel and the bodywork? I'm happy to use Spyders if they'll work. I don't fancy the whole winter tyres scenario to be honest. Just for one week in the snow.

There was enough clearance on 19" wheels on my M3s, including the CSL.

[griff430]

Excellent! It sounds like the Spyders are the way forward!!