Hey Harold,

Not sure what your winter conditions are like where you are at...or if you use a dedicated snow tire, etc. But on thing to consider on size is that the wider tire (205's) is better on ice and hard-packed snow, whereas the slightly narrower tire (the 195's) will be a touch better in deep snow. I live in deep snow country, so people around here (including the tire stores) steer people toward a touch narrower tire if they are buying one tire for use in all seasons. 

I haven't driven the two side-by-side, so I'm only speaking from theory and "tire store hearsay." I have driven my 195's on hard pack, ice, and deep snow and have not had a problem. My guess is that as long as both tires offer the proper load rating, and the rim you purchase accepts a 195 and/or a 205, you'd be fine with either.

-Ben
'88 Wolfsburg 2WD ej22
Bozeman, Montana

> Date: Tue, 25 Mar 2008 09:48:21 -0400
> From: teer.vanagon@GMAIL.COM
> Subject: Question on Size
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> I am about to replace my Michelin Agilis on 14" rims with Nokian CS tires.
> I may stay with the 14" rims and purchase the 185R14 with a diameter of 25.6"
> and section width of 7.4", but am considering going to the 15" South African
> Alloys.
> 
> IF I purchase the Alloys, my question is which size tire to put on the 15"
> rim?
> 
> It appears that many people use the 205 65 R 15 with a diameter of 25.5 and
> section width of 8.2
> I also have the choice of a 195 70 R 15 with a diameter of 25.8 and section
> width of 7.9.
> 
> I have searched the archives of "The List" and also of Samba and I have not
> seen anyone using the 195 70 R 15.  Am just wondering why not and if that is
> a good or bad option.  My guess is that people who go to a bigger rim also
> want more tread on the road so they go with the 205 65 which provides that.
> But, that is my guess and I want your thoughts.
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Harold
> 
> --
> Harold & Faye Teer
> 1991 Westy
> Harrisonburg, VA

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