Here in Oregon, tires bearing the "snowflake" stamp are considered okay for winter use, otherwise one is required to carry chains. These BFGs don't have the snowflake approval. 

Sent from my iPhone.

On Jan 8, 2013, at 7:58 AM, Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@COX.NET> wrote:

> ---- John Meeks <vanagon@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
>> On Mon, Jan 7, 2013 at 10:35 PM, Rocket J Squirrel <
>> camping.elliott@gmail.com> wrote:
>> 
>>> Mrs Squirrel's all-wheel drive Subaru Outback was
>>> doing a bit of sliding about, but my 2WD Vanagon (with 300lbs of sand
>>> over the rear axle) handled the same stretches with aplomb
>> 
>> Mr. Squirrel ~
>> 
>> Don't underestimate the added traction that 300lbs gives you. I carry three
>> 60lb tubes of sand and a 40lb bag of rock salt in the back in winter and
>> notice a HUGE difference in the way my 2WD handles icy roads.
> 
> I routinely did this when I drove pickup trucks, notoriously poor in winter conditions.  Now, the only rear wheel drive vehicle I have is the camper.  I only drive it for camping, so automatically have it loaded up with camping stuff when going.  I've driven in some pretty nasty winter states with it, and not had a problem.  But a better winter tire could not hurt.  But I still don't know if the BFG tire in 195/75-14 is approved for winter.  Even if siped, which would be considered a modification, that would not alter the legal situation.  mcneely
> 
>> 
>> John Meeks
>> '91 Vanagon MV Phoenix 2.1
>> Northern Michigan
>> 
>> Vanagon Rescue Squad <http://www.vanagonauts.com/Vanagon-Rescue-Squad74.htm>
>> Android and iOS apps
> 
> --
> David McNeely