[c mobi]

I came across the Fit Freak website today while looking for tire chains for my 2008 Fit Sport MT. I'm staying with the P195/55 R15 OEM tire size as anything wider would further reduce clearance between front suspension strut and tire. The Honda owner's manual indicates Class-S chains are needed because of the tight clearance.

In general, most snow chains are made of either chains or cables. Traditional chains provide the greatest traction and durability but are heavy and rougher riding. Cable chains are smoother riding and lighter. Both types are available in a simple ladder pattern or in more effective diagonal and diamond patterns.

I found three retailers that offer good choices for my Fit:

Costco.com offers the diamond pattern chain SCC Eurotech Alloy; for $55 (inc s&h but not tax). Also included are tighteners, mat, gloves, and repair links in a plastic case.

Tirechains.com offers a number of choices but I liked their Diagonal Cable for $50 (plus $13 for s&h to Las Vegas, tensioning device not included) and Low Profile diamond chain for $80 (plus $18 s&h, tensioning device is included). The Low Profile chain is rated Sub-S for even tighter clearances than Class-S.

VulcanTire.com offers a number of choices but I liked their SCC Super Z-6 diagonal cable for $69 (plus $8 for s&h, also Sub-S; includes tensioner and storage bag) and the diamond chain Thule CB-12 for $69 (inc s&h, includes tensioner and case).

I've decided on the Costco diamond chain based on cost and convenience. I'll try it at home and if it doesn't clear the suspension strut or otherwise fit well, then I can return it to any Costco and then buy my second choice, the SCC Super Z-6 diagonal cable which should have plenty of clearance. I'll let you know how they fit and how they work (if I get to the snow).

On a different note, we in the southwest USA are generally not as experienced in snow driving as in other parts of the country. And, as pointed out by another, many cars are not maintained to a level necessary for safe snow driving because they live in LA, SF, or where ever, but sometimes end up in snow country anyway. But I think there are additional reasons for our strict snow driving regulations. Our significant populations and topography are responsible for steep, convoluted, and heavily-traveled mountain roads. Combine this with our low latitude causes large variations in temperature and precipitation. As a result, I've often driven over alternating snow, ice, wet and dry pavement.

cmobi
2008 Fit Sport MT
Best 47 mpg so far