|
I'm planning to get Nokian Hakkapelitta RSi's in the stock size (175/65R14). I've got them for my Mini, and had them for the Volvo wagon we traded for the Fit, and really like them. There are lots of great winter tires around, and as long as you stick with one of the "top" tires from a reputable manufacturer you'll probably be fine. The Nokians are longer living than some of the "Ice" tires, since they use a harder compound, and they use a canola-based oil instead of petroleum-based, so they're better for the environment. They also don't use as many evil things in manufacturing, which I like. The "Ice" tires get part of their grip from being a really soft compound, which is fine when you're driving on really cold roads, but here in Nova Scotia we have a mixed bag in winter - frozen one day and 5 above another, so having a harder compound pays off.
I can't imagine that you'll have too much trouble with the locks freezing up, and if you do you can buy a little squeeze bottle of lock de-icer that won't bother you in your winter coat's pocket to free them up as needed. Another trick is to spray in a bit of "Fluid Film", a lanolin-based anti-corrosion lubricant - it won't freeze and keeps things running smoothly. The only drawback to Fluid Film is that it's pretty sticky (good for keeping it in place) which tends to promote dust and dirt sticking, and can look a little unsightly. You can always wipe it off, of course. I always kept the rear window wiper on the Volvo lubricated with it, and it worked much better as a result.
I'm loving my Fit, though, and hope yours arrives soon!
Chris
|