sbc-yyc wroteSpring is finally in the air, so it's time to update the subjective ownership experience of the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 during this winter.Got myself a set of Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV winter tires in 275/45 R20 110V. Mounted them on Replika R253s in satin charcoal that almost look like the BMW 809M wheelsThen took the X5 out on a relatively long-ish 550 km round trip today through some really cold weather in the morning, and came back really satisfied.
Performance in sub zero temperatures, icy and snowy conditions remains to be seen. But in terms of initial impressions in cold and freezing weather, I can happily say that these tires seem worth the pretty penny they cost. The ride is absolutely lovely, tire noise is non-existent, and handling hasn't taken much of a hit. I am sorely tempted to consider downsizing now to 20 inches in the summer just so I can find Michelins in available sizes and I can get rid of those absolutely god awful Continental RFTs.
Will update later on as the season progresses. Lots of winter driving planned for this season
Kilometers driven: 11,376
Temperature conditions: between +10°C and -30°C
Average fuel economy: around 10L/100 Kms
Road conditions: 40% snow covered, 30% bare tarmac, 20% icy and 10% slushy.
Handling: A++. Supreme confidence in all weather and road conditions. Rock solid stability no matter what surface we were on. The compound is hilariously soft, so the colder it got, the ride and handling became even more taut. It was a joy to drive in really cold temperatures.
Comfort: A++. Whisper quiet at highway speeds on bare tarmac. Fronts were at 37/38 psi and the rears were at 43/44 psi throughout the winter.
Wet Braking: A+. I remember ABS activating twice on massively snow covered roads, but that was probably because I was having too much fun sliding around and got a bit trigger happy with the accelerator
Dry Braking: A++. 0 concerns here.
Treadwear: Unknown. Haven't checked the tread depth as of yet, but will report when I put on the summer tires by mid-April.
Subjectively, best winter tires I've ever owned. I've used Blizzaks and X-Ice before, and they've been really good too, but these Alpin 5s are just on another level. Let me know if you need some more info
