Thu., Dec. 18, 2014

Winter tires: Which do you prefer?

In this Monday, June 30, 2014 photo, a car moves on a serpentine road past snow-capped peaks near Zoji La in Indian-Kashmir, India. Many Tibetans say that being in the mountains make them miss their homeland. (Tsering Topgyal / Associated Press)

As we wait for winter to wallop our roads, it’s never too early to talk tires.

Last winter, I commuted about 200 miles a week in my 2013 Honda Fit. Obviously, it’s not the heartiest of vehicles, but it performed amazingly well after I began driving on four Bridgestone Blizzak WS70s. No slips, no slides and, believe it or not, I averaged close to 40 miles per gallon.

My other ride is a 2011 Surly Cross-Check, a versatile bike that I’ve commuted on for years, taken on gravel roads on Mount Spokane and plan someday to tour on. For my Surly, I own a pair of Nokian Suomi IceSpeed studded tires.The 100 studs are steel, and while I have to ride a bit more gingerly, they keep me going through the winter.

Keep in mind all of these tires are still sitting in basement, just waiting for the snow, ice and sleet.

What winter tires do you prefer for your winter commute? Any suggestions for those looking to upgrade?

Posted Dec. 18, 2014, 6 a.m.