Winter's coming. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 review

[Astromax1]

I live in Colorado and purchased the Nokian Hakkapelitta R2s in early November, only a few weeks after buying the car. I wasn't thrilled initially with how much they give up vs. the summer tires (Conti's on 19' peelers), as I was really enjoying the handling and traction of the summer setup.

Cut to now: We've had snow packed roads and single digit temps for several days. The performance on snow packed roads is UNREAL. The tires hook up so well, it's stunning.

If I didn't live in an area with as much snow and take my kids skiing as regularly as I do, I would probably recommend a tire that was less committed to snow and winter driving and leaned more towards dry road performance. But for where I live and what I do on the weekends, these are doing exactly what I bought them for and have exceeded my expectations.

Discount tire's price was $216/tire ($1,000 total w/mounting/balancing/tax) for 245/40/18's as they were willing to negotiate a little off of the asking price. I put them on 18" RS4 reps (VMR 708). I always liked the look of that wheel and they look great. I should mention that the tires felt very squirrely driving home after they were installed and needed approximately 50-100 miles to "scrub in".

My prior snow tire experience: I have previously run Nokian studded tires (awesome in the snow, but too noisy) as well as a few sets of Gislaved's (was pretty happy with them) prior to trying these over the past 15 winters.

I'll report back later on deep slush and ice performance pending more experience with those conditions.

[westwest888]

That is the best tire in the business. Thanks for writing it up.

[lditty]

Thanks nice write up

[MrFunk]

That is the best tire in the business. Thanks for writing it up.

I'd have to agree... I'm running Blizzak WS60's which I think are one of the best for winter conditions... when I've worn these out I'll be going with a set of Nokians which are about the same price and in the same league... I wish TireRack sold them.


BTW - Winter is HERE... not coming [:)]

[Seis-Speed]

I have the same tire. They are too soft for my particular use, BUT they are unbelievable in snow and ice. I mean really good and I get really good MPG with them as well. If you are on snow and ice on hills, they are the safest bet, IMO. I had them on a hill a few days ago and they were amazingly grippy in a solid shot of ice. Great tire!!

I have good friend who supplies tires so I am going with something a little firmer next week, but my main reason is I live in a mild area and only need the snow/ice when traveling to the snow. I also ski through May, so I am on dry roads 90% of the time sometimes in 60 degrees.

I asked what guys are putting on their high performance cars, believe it or not many are going Hankook Icept evo? I may go that route. Not a lot on the web about them.

[JD_MD]

Great write-up. I just installed a pair on my S4. I know they are a little overkill for the Mid-Atlantic, but I plan on traveling to the mountains this winter with the kids. Today, these tires handled beautifully in our little snow event. Hopefully we will get the dump of snow this year so I can really test these out.

[Seis-Speed]

OK, the R2's are the best I have tried several snow tires and nothing compares. I was like the OP. They are great in the snow, but....compromise
There is no but, they are amazing in winter, the best, the other winters are better on dry, but why complicate things. Get the best winter tire and the best summer tire and be done with it. I always fight the winter tire for dry days, (nothing is like summers) but having had the R2 on crazy ice and snow. I am freaking sold.

[Zaider]

Well. My worn blizzaks (came with the car from the dealer) finally bit the dust last week so I ordered a set of Hakka R2's from my buddy at a local tire shop.

Stupid 19" oem wheels that I use for winter wheels mean I was looking for 255/35/19 Hakka R2's. He couldn't find any in Canada so had to get a set shipped from Vermont.

Would have almost been cheaper to buy a set of 18" VMR wheels and 18" Hakka R2's. Oh well. Hopefully they arrive today so I can drive the car again. Loved the original Hakka R's so I am looking forward to the R2's.

[Wusty]

Bump on this....tis the season to start snow tire shopping. I had Blizzak LM-32's on my A6 last year, while the dry performance was better than my Blizzak LM-60's I had on previous S4's, I'm now considering something new and looking at the R2's. My LM-60's were much better than my LM-32's in the deep stuff, I prefer the 60's over the 32's personally but am just super curious on these Nokian's, any reviews of the R2's in the deep and on the dry? Much appreciated.

[evil_O]

My friend has recommended the WR G3 (http://www.nokiantires.com/winter-tires/nokian-wrg3/) vs the R2 (as it is not perfomance rated). Even though it is an "all season" it still has:

"SEVERE SERVICE EMBLEM OR MOUNTAIN SNOWFLAKE SYMBOL DESIGNATION RATED FOR USE IN SEVERE WINTER CONDITIONS"

I can get into a set of these for under $1k for my 19" peelers. I am thinking of giving them a try.

[evil_O]

My concern with the R2s is the R speed rating (R 106 mph 170 km/h).

But then I read THIS (http://tires.about.com/od/Tire_Reviews/fr/Review-Nokian-Hakkapeliitta-R2.htm)

The R2 may be it.

[justinpo]

My friend has recommended the WR G3 (http://www.nokiantires.com/winter-tires/nokian-wrg3/) vs the R2 (as it is not perfomance rated). Even though it is an "all season" it still has:

"SEVERE SERVICE EMBLEM OR MOUNTAIN SNOWFLAKE SYMBOL DESIGNATION RATED FOR USE IN SEVERE WINTER CONDITIONS"

I can get into a set of these for under $1k for my 19" peelers. I am thinking of giving them a try.

I used WR G3's last winter, they were awesome. I live in MN and we had a 100 year winter last winter and the tires were mind blowing good, not just for the bad weather performance but for the days when more normalish conditions exist, it was very easy to live with. I know a bunch of guys running the R2's and compared to the the Hakka's I would say the WR G3 breaks down like this:

Ice R2:10 WR G3:9 (both patchy and constant ice)
Snow R2:10 WR G3:8 (a road covered in snow, no pavement contact, not packed down by traffic)
Wet/Rain/Slush R2:8 WR G3:10 (yes I am saying the WR G3 is better)
Dry/Normalish conditions R2:4 WRG3: 7 (as compared to summer tires on dry roads)

[joeyg]

Where is everyone ordering their Nokians? I'm having trouble sourcing for "19 peelers.

[Wusty]

Where is everyone ordering their Nokians? I'm having trouble sourcing for "19 peelers.

This is one of the only places online I could find them: https://www.tiresbyweb.com/p-11093-nokian-hakkapeliitta-r2-tires.aspx

Do you have a Tire Factory store in your area? Tire Factory carries them, I just called my local and they will have R2's in shortly. Here is a link to locate a Tire Factory: http://www.tirefactory.com/home.aspx

[shadycrew31]

https://www.tiresavings.com/cart.php?action=deleteItem&id=1257457

Has them for $923 shipped.

[joeyg]

Thanks guys!

[evil_O]

I used WR G3's last winter, they were awesome. I live in MN and we had a 100 year winter last winter and the tires were mind blowing good, not just for the bad weather performance but for the days when more normalish conditions exist, it was very easy to live with. I know a bunch of guys running the R2's and compared to the the Hakka's I would say the WR G3 breaks down like this:

Ice R2:10 WR G3:9 (both patchy and constant ice)
Snow R2:10 WR G3:8 (a road covered in snow, no pavement contact, not packed down by traffic)
Wet/Rain/Slush R2:8 WR G3:10 (yes I am saying the WR G3 is better)
Dry/Normalish conditions R2:4 WRG3: 7 (as compared to summer tires on dry roads)

Excellent info. Thanks. With that... I am back on board with the WRG3s... lol. Waffle Waffle

[BaddS4]

Great thread.. I've had Nokians before as well and they were awesome!!! I had the WR's on my Mustang and they were stellar in the bad weather!!! One of the few places to get them out where I am is Kal Tire but they're a rip off when it comes to prices...

[iceracer83]

The R2 is an incredible winter tire with the added bonus of being ultra low rolling resistance.

My mileage noticeably improves after changing to the R2 for winter.

[Jango3434]

Just bought R2s and I'm actually excited for winter


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[Jango3434]

My concern with the R2s is the R speed rating (R 106 mph 170 km/h).

But then I read THIS (http://tires.about.com/od/Tire_Reviews/fr/Review-Nokian-Hakkapeliitta-R2.htm)

The R2 may be it.

The way I see it is why in winter would I be driving near that speed...


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[evil_O]

The way I see it is why in winter would I be driving near that speed...


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Because I live in Colorado. We have plenty of sunny days and clear roads. parts of the highway I drive are 75MPH. 100 is EASY to hit at times. Winter alone does not dictate road conditions through the entire season.

[Jango3434]

Mm it's very different in Colorado than here in Edmonton ( should paid more attention to where you were at sorry)


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[Wusty]

So I'm no tire guru but what happens when you go 107 mph on an R rated tire that says it's max speed is 106 mph? Do they blow out? What about close to the max, can they potentially blow? I agree with the statement that in the winter you shouldn't be exceeding 100 mph to often but was curious.

[evil_O]

A quick Google search yielded many articles like this one

http://www.dunntireblog.com/importance-tire-performance-ratings

Tires can fail, separate, if speeds are sustained beyond their rating. Further, the higher the rating the better performing the tire will be - turn in, grip, etc. due to things like stiffer side walls.

Article after article states the speed rating on the replacement tire should exceed or equal OEM. I am sure many will argue and pose themselves as evidence you can do the opposite. I'm just relaying what I have read.

The winter season ALONE does not dictate speeds in CO. The road conditions due. Making a blanket statement that a certain speed should not be exceeded in winter is naive. Come to CO. in the winter and see how clear our roads can be. While the next day they have snow pack on them.

[shadycrew31]

If you want to drive like an asshole when the snow melts just stick to all-seasons, its never failed me :).

[evil_O]

If you want to drive like an asshole when the snow melts just stick to all-seasons, its never failed me :).
I can't figure out how people infer this. I have a portion of the highway I travel that is 75MPH. Any given day the traffic flow can easily be 85MPH. How would you suggest if someone needs to pass or change lanes?

Ah yes, then again I am sure no one here EVER sees triple digits. Especially once winter hits. That is widely known that for several months of the year, speeds will be at or well below highway speeds. Can a B8 S4 even maintain 106MPH?

BTW. All seasons suck.

With that said, the WR G3s are all season by definition. LOL

[Docwyte]

Ha. I regularly exceed 85mph coming down from Vail after skiing. When the road is dry of course....

[Wusty]

Just want to make sure if I get the R2's and I'm rolling home from the resorts and the roads are dry and clear and I happen to hit 100 MPH my tires aren't going to explode.

[evil_O]

Just want to make sure if I get the R2's and I'm rolling home from the resorts and the roads are dry and clear and I happen to hit 100 MPH my tires aren't going to explode.
100. Probably ok. Over 106 I suppose... and sustained, the tire could separate. Hence the speed rating. Just keep it in mind.

[Amorphic]

I ran Hakkapeliitta's (studded) when I had my B5. Amazing tire. Where I used to live we often reached -35 C and had feet of snow fall in a day. Had no issues in deep snow or ice with those tires. Couldn't recommend them enough.

[shadycrew31]

I can't figure out how people infer this. I have a portion of the highway I travel that is 75MPH. Any given day the traffic flow can easily be 85MPH. How would you suggest if someone needs to pass or change lanes?

Ah yes, then again I am sure no one here EVER sees triple digits. Especially once winter hits. That is widely known that for several months of the year, speeds will be at or well below highway speeds. Can a B8 S4 even maintain 106MPH?

BTW. All seasons suck.

With that said, the WR G3s are all season by definition. LOL

Wut? I suggested running all seasons so you can drive however you want.

I was stuck once going up 70 right near the Continental divide in my 91 300zx literally could not go any further stuck on the side of an incline. Luckily I had two spare wheels with all seasons on, I put them on the rear wheels and drove my happy ass over the mountain.

Granted you wont be going through 8 inches of snow in them but they can get you around on plowed roads.

[evil_O]

Wut? I suggested running all seasons so you can drive however you want.

I was stuck once going up 70 right near the Continental divide in my 91 300zx literally could not go any further stuck on the side of an incline. Luckily I had two spare wheels with all seasons on, I put them on the rear wheels and drove my happy ass over the mountain.

Granted you wont be going through 8 inches of snow in them but they can get you around on plowed roads.
Got it. I prefer to run dedicated but given the weather here I don't want to give up too much performance. I think an R rating will do that. But that is just me.

[shadycrew31]

Got it. I prefer to run dedicated but given the weather here I don't want to give up too much performance. I think an R rating will do that. But that is just me.

I wouldn't want to give up performance either. I also could never see myself buying a separate tire just for the winter mainly because I work from home lol.

[evil_O]

I wouldn't want to give up performance either. I also could never see myself buying a separate tire just for the winter mainly because I work from home lol.

Separate tire? Heck.. I am buying separate tires AND wheels. Well, I should say that the 19s will be my winters and next year I will be running 20s with Pilot SS... just like I am now.

[Docwyte]

Ugh, 19's for winter? Why? I'm about to buy the R2's in a 225-45-18. Taller, narrower tires are much better in the snow. Plus then you have more tire to protect the wheels...

[RudyH]

From everything I have read the Nokians are the best winter tire one can buy.
However, they are very noisy and not a comfortable drive = poor mpg

I had some Michellin X-Ice Xi2's and they were the best tire I ever had, especially for my RWD at the time. The Xi3's are suppose to be quieter and better mpg

[TimNGobbles]

Just want to make sure if I get the R2's and I'm rolling home from the resorts and the roads are dry and clear and I happen to hit 100 MPH my tires aren't going to explode.

I wouldn't go that fast on the R2's, I think you are asking for trouble. Sorry if i missed it in a prior post, but have you drove on a winter tire before? If its dry road they are going to be squirrly and soft as hell at those excessive speeds. If you need to make an emergency manuever they are not going to perform well at those excessive speed. They will likely be adequate at normal freeway speeds (<85mph).

If you want the best balance (dry handling/cold/ice/snow/wet) for a winter tire I would look into a pair of performance winter tires. The performance snow tires were developed for the European countries that wanted snow/ice ability but would still be able to do Autobahn speeds. The Michelin Pilot Alpin P4 came close to the winter/snow performance of a pure winter tire X-ice Xi3 or Blizzak WS70. Tire rack finally posted the 2014 tests results of their performance and pure winter tires. A pure winter tire is going to give up alot of performance for the sake of improved snow/ice traction handling.

Here in Colorado when the weather turns ugly the freeways move at single to teen digit speeds. Slower speeds allow a less aggressive winter tire perform exceptionally well.

[S4tranquility]

Ugh, 19's for winter? Why? I'm about to buy the R2's in a 225-45-18. Taller, narrower tires are much better in the snow. Plus then you have more tire to protect the wheels...

19s all the way for me. I'm not sacrificing anything for the couple times each season I actually need to take on snow. The vast majority of the time, it's just cold pavement. I'm running 19" Ti rotor reps. Just need to score a good deal on some tires.

[CrownSeven]

Ugh, 19's for winter? Why? I'm about to buy the R2's in a 225-45-18. Taller, narrower tires are much better in the snow. Plus then you have more tire to protect the wheels...

I'm about to do the same, except I was going to get the R2's in 245-40-18. Now I'm wondering if I should go with the 'skinnier' set up. Was thinking of going with the stock 18" sizing due to it being wider, which would help the tire grip better when the roads are not covered in snow.

[Docwyte]

I wouldn't worry too much about that. Not looking for ultimate grip in the winter, even with the pavement dry, it's cold and the tires aren't going to grip very well regardless.

[11move]

How is the wear on these tires? I have had Hankook and Pirelli. Pirelli sucks for wear as I cant get it to last more than 2 seasons, 3 if I am lucky. Hankook I only drove for about 1000km's so I cant comment on that.

[CrownSeven]

I wouldn't worry too much about that. Not looking for ultimate grip in the winter, even with the pavement dry, it's cold and the tires aren't going to grip very well regardless.

Just ordered my winter set up - Nokian R2's 225/45/18 and a set of Alzor 656 wheels. (http://www.ecstuning.com/ES2762395/) Now bring on the snow - just not too early that is.

I've always run Michelin X-ICE winter tires in the past, will be curious to see how these compare.

[evil_O]

Ugh, 19's for winter? Why? I'm about to buy the R2's in a 225-45-18. Taller, narrower tires are much better in the snow. Plus then you have more tire to protect the wheels...
I hear ya. Just want to use the stockers for winter. I don't want to be another set of wheels. Just another set for summer.

[joediesel]

Anyone check out the Blizzak WS80? Decent price, supposedly better than the earlier renditions of the tire.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Bridgestone&tireModel=Blizzak+WS80&partnum=05HR7WS80XL

[evil_O]

PERFECT example of Colorado winters. PLUS, this in IN the mountains.

Just don't think I can do R2s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9Zc45ixww0#t=41)

[Docwyte]

Yeah, I'm a little torn myself. But at the same time I don't hoon that much in the winter, plus the "performance" winter tires are more like all seasons, so they blow in all aspects.

I'd rather have a tire that only blows in one aspect...

[evil_O]

Yeah, I'm a little torn myself. But at the same time I don't hoon that much in the winter, plus the "performance" winter tires are more like all seasons, so they blow in all aspects.

I'd rather have a tire that only blows in one aspect...
Yep. Agree. However with what I have been reading about the WR G3s, and what my buddy suggested, I think I'm going to chance it and try them.

I can get all four, mounted, balanced, and road hazard for under $1k. Given the heritage of the tire, it sounds more like a performance winter tire. I guess I will know in a couple months [emoji12]

[Docwyte]

The WR's are still fairly hard core, much more than a typical all season tire

[Neosapian]

I can't figure out how people infer this. I have a portion of the highway I travel that is 75MPH. Any given day the traffic flow can easily be 85MPH. How would you suggest if someone needs to pass or change lanes?

Ah yes, then again I am sure no one here EVER sees triple digits. Especially once winter hits. That is widely known that for several months of the year, speeds will be at or well below highway speeds. Can a B8 S4 even maintain 106MPH?

BTW. All seasons suck.

With that said, the WR G3s are all season by definition. LOL

A little late to the conversation, found this thread through google. The other night I casually overtook an STI + a Big Rig on the highway in my c5 2.7T & before I knew it I hit 95mph. Conditions were wet with zero traffic. On Bridgestone S0-4 summers, are silky smooth well into the triple digits and hydroplane resistance at any reasonable speed is tremendous. This same pass with the Continental All Seasons on the Mk6 Golf - or even my previous $1200 Bridgestone all-seasons - wouldn't be safe. There simply isn't enough grip.

Speed, road manners, and performance are should be dictated by which tire you've equipped, rather than season or even road condition. I'm of the opinion that a dedicated summer & winter set up is the best way to go for performance geeks & safety freaks alike

That said, I live in northwestern Washington, 45 miles south of Vancouver, CA where winter is primarily wet and ice cold, with occasional snow fall. I'm looking for an 18x8" setup with 235/40/18 winters because I value the traction benefits of a standard size contact patch (vs. a narrower/taller fiment) in dry & wet conditions. I also need a super stable & predictable tire for highway ice & snow conditions on the way to Whistler & Mt. Baker as well as a winter trip from Seattle to Aspen.

I can't decide between the Hakka R2's & the WR G3's, as they both seem to meet my requirements. My only concern is the R-rated Hakka's high speed responsiveness on the plain ol' cold dry roads around town. Furthermore, will I experience excessive tread wear operating this particular tire In less-than-Nordic conditions?

See but then I swore I wouldn't buy another set of all-seasons... I wonder if Nokian's All Season designation is just a means of marketing high performance winters to a broader audience...

Please advise.

[evil_O]

See but then I swore I wouldn't buy another set of all-seasons... I wonder if Nokian's All Season designation is just a means of marketing high performance winters to a broader audience...
Please advise.

Wish I had real world experience with the WR G3s for ya. I will after this winter though. In speaking with my friend (who has worked many many years for a tire store) he highly recommends them for winter. So much so, he is using them as dedicated winters for his wife's car. I think that says quite a bit.

While not a "true" winter tire, it does wear the severe weather/mountain snowflake emblem. Again, another pro. Performance rated. Pro. Price point for me (255/35/19) will be under 1K (this is mounted, balanced, plus road hazard). Yet another pro.
Nokian winter tire performance. Pro.

The ONLY con I can come up with is, as you said, they are marketed as all seasons. Meh, I will take the one con with all those pros. I just can't bring myself to run a R rated tire during the winter months. IF the roads were snow packed ALL season long, yes. Not the case here in Denver/Castle Rock, CO.

[Neosapian]

Roger that.

That's a lot of tire for under a grand. If tread life is better to boot this all makes for a strong argument against the Hakka's for me.

[mjt2470]

Not the case here in Denver/Castle Rock, CO.

If you are talking about I-25 around the factory outlet mall, I can see how you can easily exceed 100 mph. Especially if you're coming down one of those hills. I was in that area a few weeks ago and looked down at my speedometer and was close to 100 mph in our SUV.

Not driving like an a-hole, just cruising down the hill and I was not passing any cars--just keeping pace.

Great discussion on tires! Thanks to everyone for the information.

[Jango3434]

The non studded HAKKA 8s looks to be a good choice as well


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[evil_O]

If you are talking about I-25 around the factory outlet mall, I can see how you can easily exceed 100 mph. Especially if you're coming down one of those hills. I was in that area a few weeks ago and looked down at my speedometer and was close to 100 mph in our SUV.

Not driving like an a-hole, just cruising down the hill and I was not passing any cars--just keeping pace.

Great discussion on tires! Thanks to everyone for the information.
That is exactly the spot I'm talking about!

[Wusty]

I'm leaning towards the Hakka R2's at the moment. I can keep in under 100 mph in the winter, a little self control will do me good.

[Neosapian]

I've decided on the Hakka R2's as well. Braking distance and accident avoidance are my highest priorities. Especially when my Girl is behind the wheel. I figure the reason I'm getting winter rubber to begin with is so that I am prepared for the worst. I'm planning a 1300 mile winter road trip from Seattle to Aspen next year and I know I'm going to need the additional grip properties of a true snow/ice tire. As for around town: conditions are typically frozen pavement, patchy ice in shaded areas, and occasional slush with maybe 2 feet of accumulated snow all season. Well the Hakka's are rated at the top in all of these areas... I guess I'll just have to watch my speed.

Good thread!

[audistealth]

Yeah, I'm a little torn myself. But at the same time I don't hoon that much in the winter, plus the "performance" winter tires are more like all seasons, so they blow in all aspects.

I'd rather have a tire that only blows in one aspect...

Usually, winters are a different compound than A/S. That alone is a relevant difference, and can help stopping distance.

[Wusty]

I've decided on the Hakka R2's as well. Braking distance and accident avoidance are my highest priorities. Especially when my Girl is behind the wheel. I figure the reason I'm getting winter rubber to begin with is so that I am prepared for the worst. I'm planning a 1300 mile winter road trip from Seattle to Aspen next year and I know I'm going to need the additional grip properties of a true snow/ice tire. As for around town: conditions are typically frozen pavement, patchy ice in shaded areas, and occasional slush with maybe 2 feet of accumulated snow all season. Well the Hakka's are rated at the top in all of these areas... I guess I'll just have to watch my speed.

Good thread!

Couldn't agree more. When I know it's going to snow overnight, I wake up early giddy just to go hooning around the roads before the snow trucks have plowed, THIS is why I get snow tires. It's so much fun!

[J. Diddy]

Are you guys just heading to a local tire shop to find them? What size are you getting?

[11move]

I am still not sold on their war and tare over time, they seem to be soft from what I have read. Where I live today can be easily -40 and tomorrow +60. This is where I ran into issues with the Pirelli's as they would only last me two seasons and $1600 for two seasons was not doing my wallet a favor.

[dropshadow]

Ordered a set of 245/40/18 R2's yesterday.

[Wusty]

Are you guys just heading to a local tire shop to find them? What size are you getting?

Tire Factory or Tiresbyweb carry them. I've been talking with my local Tire Factory shop that carry them.


I am still not sold on their war and tare over time, they seem to be soft from what I have read. Where I live today can be easily -40 and tomorrow +60. This is where I ran into issues with the Pirelli's as they would only last me two seasons and $1600 for two seasons was not doing my wallet a favor.

How long they last depends so much on your mileage. Even with the super low temps and 60 degree swings, they're still going to last I think at least 3 seasons unless you're driving 15,000+ miles a season which any tire would kick the bucket quick. And I'm sure, the "pay to play" is gonna get thrown your way :-)


Ordered a set of 245/40/18 R2's yesterday.

I'm sold now and going to place my order as well.

[Docwyte]

Discount Tire has them. I'm going to order 225-45-18's, they're an alternate size Tire Rack lists for our car. Taller, narrower tires are better for winter...

[TimNGobbles]

Discount Tire has them. I'm going to order 225-45-18's, they're an alternate size Tire Rack lists for our car. Taller, narrower tires are better for winter...


Only if you are going to be driving in a lot of snow, if it will be mostly dry but cold pavement then the 245 will give you a little more performance. That said, there is usually a nice price difference in 225/45 vs the 245/40. I ended up with the 225/45 when I bought last year as it saved me $200 at the time.

PS Docwyte, congratulations on your new/used S4


I am still not sold on their war and tare over time, they seem to be soft from what I have read. Where I live today can be easily -40 and tomorrow +60. This is where I ran into issues with the Pirelli's as they would only last me two seasons and $1600 for two seasons was not doing my wallet a favor.

I think your environment would do well with the Performance snow tire. I think they will handle the warmer temp better than a more aggressive snow tire but you will still get all the benefits of the softer compound in those sub zero temps when an all season compound will be harder then a hockey puck.

[Docwyte]

Thanks! Yeah, but since the snow tire compound is so soft the dry performance delta between a 225-45 and a 245-40 is going to be minimal. Since I run dedicated snow wheels/tires and summer wheels/tires I'd rather go with the optimal snow setup.

[Wusty]

Can it just snow already? [:D] We're supposed to get some at the tops of the mountains this weekend, I may have to go snow hunting! Oh yeah, I'm on summer tires still, lol. Not a good idea.

[Olivier@Cinetix]

The Nokian Hakka R2 are the best. I did my first winter last year with them and they are awesome. Here in Montreal, Quebec, Canada we have REAL winter with ice, slush, packs of snow and freezing cold temperature, yet these tires kept performing in the worst conditions.
I had Pirellis Sottozero before and they can't compare to them. Pirellis had a stronger sidewall so better in the corners at high speed, but they sucked on ice and when it just snowed and the trucks didn't clear the roads.
The Nokians could care less what is on the road, they just grip like crazy. Go for them!

[Wusty]

Well, I pulled the trigger finally on the Hakka R2's as well! I have an extra set of OEM 19" peelers from my previous S4 which they'll go on. 255/35/19. Stoked!!

[VenturiRS]

Well, I pulled the trigger finally on the Hakka R2's as well! I have an extra set of OEM 19" peelers from my previous S4 which they'll go on. 255/35/19. Stoked!!

Me too! Ordered a set of 245/40/18 R2's and some Ti reps Wednesday.

My only concern in the winter is not myself, it's the other people in FWD cars on balding All-Seasons :(. If I stop in enough distance and they don't, I get reamed.

[Docwyte]

I'm going with the R2's in a 225-45-18, will order them in a week or so.

[evil_O]

I'm going with the R2's in a 225-45-18, will order them in a week or so.

I would try and source them sooner if you can. Looks like they are already getting orders and are slow to fill them. My order was placed last week and my buddy has still yet to hear anything.

[Tanner]

I'm considering the Hakka R2 tires also but I'm trying to make sense of the load range - I don't think it's going to be a big deal or a factor to begin with. Max PSI on the R2s is 35psi, recommended pressure is 36PSI for 245/40/18s by Audi, or 41PSI if the car's fully loaded but i doubt that will happen during the winter. Load index is fine for the R2s.

[Neosapian]

I'd imagine the Audi recommended tire pressure applies specifically to OEM spec tires. Winters should be all good at ~35psi as per Nokian specs but i agree that sounds quite low considering the weight of the car.

[Johnnycash]

Ordered a set of 245/40/18 R2's yesterday.

ordered the same tire this morning, was going to run a blizzak but decided on the nokians after reading many many good reviews, vmr 710s are en route and should be here by the end of the week, winter setup going on second or third week of october depending on what mother nature intends to do here in the short term...

[11move]

I was doing a bit more reasearch and found this!

http://www.topgear.com/uk/car-news/ice-speed-record-audi-rs6-2013-03-15

[evil_O]

Got my Nokian WR G3S put on Friday. Very happy with them. Definitely a snow tire. Nokian touts them as all weather vs all season and has a video dedicated to the distinction http://youtu.be/MetiRGsGvGA

[Wusty]

I dropped off my wheels yesterday to get mounted to my Hakka R2's! It was the first time I had seen the tire in person, they are officially #BEASTMODE & I'm stoked. I probably won't install them for another 3-4 weeks though.

[VenturiRS]

I dropped off my wheels yesterday to get mounted to my Hakka R2's! It was the first time I had seen the tire in person, they are officially #BEASTMODE & I'm stoked. I probably won't install them for another 3-4 weeks though.

This!

I saw the tread depth, pattern and feel and Oh Man! I am stoked!

[BrentG]

Here's my 255/35/19 Hakka 8's. I used to have blizzaks in the same size and found them pretty poor in all conditions.

I'm eagerly awaiting a nasty winter now!

http://i.imgur.com/hwww2yT.jpg

[Neosapian]

Those look Mean man! Reminds me of old WRC Rally tires. A lot of width for a winter setup though aye? How's the noise comfort?

[Tanner]

I'm eagerly awaiting a nasty winter now!

Heh, sometimes I miss the snow back home in SK but sure don't miss the -30C!

[11move]

... How's the noise comfort?

+1 How is the noise inside the car?

[BrentG]

Those look Mean man! Reminds me of old WRC Rally tires. A lot of width for a winter setup though aye? How's the noise comfort?

I found after I put on 100k or so the studs quieted way down. It has a bit of howl at freeway speeds but its really not that bad.

I figure a bit of road noise on dry pavement is a small price to pay for the grip these things give on the snow and ice.

[Johnnycash]

all dressed up and ready to go!

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss338/Lsquared365/audiwheel_zpse16518ce.jpg (http://s589.photobucket.com/user/Lsquared365/media/audiwheel_zpse16518ce.jpg.html)

[Jango3434]

Can't wait for the snow thats coming in the next few days![drive] The R2s i have aren't too noisy

[CdnaudiS4]

I'm debating of buying a used set of these for 800.. he says less than 7000km wear on them. OR buying a set of Michelin Xi 3's for about 1000 brand new. Has anyone used both? I've only used the Xi3's and their amazing! you get what you pay for really.

[Docwyte]

I bought mine brand new for less than that.

[Wilbur]

all dressed up and ready to go!

http://i589.photobucket.com/albums/ss338/Lsquared365/audiwheel_zpse16518ce.jpg (http://s589.photobucket.com/user/Lsquared365/media/audiwheel_zpse16518ce.jpg.html)

You could climb a tree with that thing!! Nice

[Wilbur]

I'm debating of buying a used set of these for 800.. he says less than 7000km wear on them. OR buying a set of Michelin Xi 3's for about 1000 brand new. Has anyone used both? I've only used the Xi3's and their amazing! you get what you pay for really.

My tire guy says new WS80 are a better tire on snow than x-ice. I've ordered one set...........

[CdnaudiS4]

My tire guy says new WS80 are a better tire on snow than x-ice. I've ordered one set...........

Since you're in Canada too, how much did you end up paying for them?

[Wusty]

My tire guy says new WS80 are a better tire on snow than x-ice. I've ordered one set...........

The funny thing is every tire guy says whatever his top selling brand is, is best ie. Nokian, Bridgestone or Dunlop. I have in-laws that own 3 tire shops, their non-bias selection....they swear by the Nokian's (but they sell more Blizzak & Dunlops). I have another friend that owns a tuning shop and they do a lot of tires, he swears by the Blizzaks, I have another family friend that owns a competing tire dealership and he swears by the Blizzaks. The tire guys push what they make the most money on so don't always believe your tire guy, do a ton of research and yes.......I get crazy good deals on tires :-)

[1MORLAP]

Great write-up. I just installed a pair on my S4. I know they are a little overkill for the Mid-Atlantic, but I plan on traveling to the mountains this winter with the kids. Today, these tires handled beautifully in our little snow event. Hopefully we will get the dump of snow this year so I can really test these out.

You need two pairs. :-)

[Sciguy]

I've had WRG3's on for about a month, now. Of course, the fickle Salt Lake weather gods have held off on the snow thus far. The tires feel pretty good; especially in the cooler weather we have had here in the last couple of weeks (high 30's to mid 40's). I'm eager to try them in snow and slush.

[TimNGobbles]

You need two pairs. :-)

x2

[ishowerinjager]

i paid 1900 for hak R2 installed in saskatchewan. tires arent cheap in canada.

[Johnnycash]

i paid 1900 for hak R2 installed in saskatchewan. tires arent cheap in canada.

what does that equal in us dollars?

[Johnnycash]

You could climb a tree with that thing!! Nice

supposed to get about a foot on monday kinda excited to drive around in the snow, even though i loathe every other aspect of winter...

[Docwyte]

Got the R2's on yesterday. Definitely quite a bit less dry grip vs the RE11's I had on there, the R2's feel much more squigdy. Course the weather is getting much worse here, so the tires will feel much better.

[dropshadow]

supposed to get about a foot on monday kinda excited to drive around in the snow, even though i loathe every other aspect of winter...

Put my R2's on yesterday as well. Got my belly pan on, ready for snow.

[Johnnycash]

Put my R2's on yesterday as well. Got my belly pan on, ready for snow.

should i get a skid plate? sell me on the pros and cons plz!

[dropshadow]

should i get a skid plate? sell me on the pros and cons plz!

I got the ECS one because I didn't want to raise my car back up this winter. I'm a lot lower than stock, so for me it's the year-round benefits too. For the price, it's good peace of mind.

[Jango3434]

Just came to Calgary from Edmonton on some skating rink-esque highways and the R2s were like a dream!


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[Wusty]

And this is why Nokian's kill it, their R&D is second to none.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEGUTw7KHxE

[VenturiRS]

And this is why Nokian's kill it, their R&D is second to none.


I'm glad I made the right decision!

[Johnnycash]

just popped my snow cherry with my nokian tires, and they are awesome to say the least! now if everybody else would just stay off of the roads we wont have any problems.[drive]

[dropshadow]

245/40/18 R2's on 18x8 Alzor 030 wheels. Lots of fun this morning, looking forward to more hooning over lunch.

http://i.imgur.com/KblrMat.jpg

[JspotMD]

Just came to Calgary from Edmonton on some skating rink-esque highways and the R2s were like a dream!


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Drove Grande Prairie to Edmonton on the same day. Hwy-43 looked like a zamboni had just finished running it. Hakka R2s did fantastic.

I had Hakka Rs on my old A4 and they were amazing, sold me on the brand.
Got R2s for the S4 in OEM sizing. These are even better than the Rs. Downsized to 18s on Alleggeritas.
Run the stock 19s and Contis in the Summer.

As for the 170Km/h limit. I set my warning to 160Km/h for the winter and just drive. It's suicide to exceed those speeds on the roads I drive in the winter anyways - just handy during the shoulder seasons.

They are "squirmier" than the summers but once the tread settles in early-corner they are predictable.

Worth ever penny IMO.

[nunzo]

after reading the multiple threads on snow tires, i called around friday. my local Nokian shop actually suggested against the R2 and WRG3 for the S4. said they get a lot of complaints on the noise level of the WRG3, and the ride of the R2

i instead went with the Michelin X-Ice XI3. on the car with warranty tax and alignment = $1050. i usually go Blizzak, but have had good luck with Michelins in the past.

[Wusty]

after reading the multiple threads on snow tires, i called around friday. my local Nokian shop actually suggested against the R2 and WRG3 for the S4. said they get a lot of complaints on the noise level of the WRG3, and the ride of the R2

i instead went with the Michelin X-Ice XI3. on the car with warranty tax and alignment = $1050. i usually go Blizzak, but have had good luck with Michelins in the past.

IMHO, you can't buy a "bad" winter tire, relatively speaking. Some are better than others but all do quite well.

[ishowerinjager]

what does that equal in us dollars?



That a cool 1700 US bucks at the moment, and i did some shopping around for that price too. wish i lived closer to the border and could head across to grab them for 1000 bucks

[Wilbur]

IMHO, you can't buy a "bad" winter tire, relatively speaking. Some are better than others but all do quite well.

Agreed. I always get HP winter in OEM size .....they arent squirmy at all.

[nunzo]

IMHO, you can't buy a "bad" winter tire, relatively speaking. Some are better than others but all do quite well.

i had a set of goodyear glacier grip ice that were absolutely horrible on my passat. blizzaks, fine. the goodyears wouldnt grab on packed snow and would cause the car to push in corners, and starting up hills was a lost cause.

[Johnnycash]

That a cool 1700 US bucks at the moment, and i did some shopping around for that price too. wish i lived closer to the border and could head across to grab them for 1000 bucks

dumb question/idea?

if you knew somebody in the states could they buy them and ship to you? i got mine for about $800 usd, i know shipping would be extra but how much when its all said and done? under 1700 bucks probs...

[ishowerinjager]

Ya it likely would be well under 1700, it would be 800 + 6% duty (48) + shipping. could be 100-200 for shipping. so you are looking at a much better price.

Just curious, was that on 18s or 19s? this was the price for 19s. i think 18 was about 1500.

[Johnnycash]

Ya it likely would be well under 1700, it would be 800 + 6% duty (48) + shipping. could be 100-200 for shipping. so you are looking at a much better price.

Just curious, was that on 18s or 19s? this was the price for 19s. i think 18 was about 1500.

i bought 18 inch tires for my setup, I was looking at 19s on my stock rotor wheels but i got a quote from discount tire for blizzaks in 19 inch and they were like 275 per tire, realized that the 19 inch isnt very common so they ding you there, once i decided on 18 inch wheels, i just decided to go with the nokians based off of online reviews and talking to a couple different tire shops...

so never got a price quote for 19 inch nokians, but it looks like there might be some meat left on the bone if you wanted to try something like that in the future, even though its an obvious hassle?

[gamegenie]

Hakkapelliita R2s are hard to fine now, tire shops all say they are out of stock. I grabbed the 2nd to the last one being sold on ebay from an authorized Nokian seller.

I can't wait to equip my A3 with these wheels.


I knew the R2s were the ones to get when I saw this video on Youtube earlier this year.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ir1EuousZc4

[Neosapian]

Hopefully I'll be able to find a set of R2's in 235/40/18 in January. Im thinking Ebay is the way to go, but maybe i can score a set in the Vancouver, BC area. Only one of my local tire shops (Discount Tire) carries then and they're priced a bit high.

Which ebay seller did you go through? Fun video by the way.

[Wilbur]

My concern with the R2s is the R speed rating (R 106 mph 170 km/h).

But then I read THIS (http://tires.about.com/od/Tire_Reviews/fr/Review-Nokian-Hakkapeliitta-R2.htm)

The R2 may be it.



Until I read that I wouldnt buy that tire....................

[breyton490]

Ugh, 19's for winter? Why? I'm about to buy the R2's in a 225-45-18. Taller, narrower tires are much better in the snow. Plus then you have more tire to protect the wheels...

+1.. this is what have. 225/45 18... great for the winter and the billion pot holes you are going to hit.

[Shaman]

Read the first few posts, did not do the whole thread, but the 170km/h rating of the R2s is probably just fine if you want to do short bursts to say 220km/h or faster. The way tires are typically rated for speed is how they deal with a SUSTAINED speed, of 5 minutes, if memory serves. More than anything, it's a rating of how the tires deal with the heat buildup.

[Wilbur]

Read the first few posts, did not do the whole thread, but the 170km/h rating of the R2s is probably just fine if you want to do short bursts to say 220km/h or faster. The way tires are typically rated for speed is how they deal with a SUSTAINED speed, of 5 minutes, if memory serves. More than anything, it's a rating of how the tires deal with the heat buildup.

In real world driving, a tire with higher speed rating is less "squirmy". Thats really all that matters isnt it?

[Shaman]

For racing or for aggressive pavement driving, sure. For winter?

[Saleen S7 TT]

Has anyone tried General Tire Altimax Arctic? I loved my General Tire G-MAX AS-03 on my '08 VW GTI I had, they also happened to be the coolest looking tire tread ha.

[Shaman]

I've only driven about 15km tonight with the new R2s on... total transformation in the car as expected, and this is about as bad as it gets, ice with sticky snow on top. I live in a hilly area of the country, went up and down some fairly steep grades and my steep, unplowed driveway (with 10" of snow on it), no issues. Quite pleased as an initial assessment. And this is without the tires being run in 100km as recommended before full performance of the tires will be realised.

[Usa]

+1.. this is what have. 225/45 18... great for the winter and the billion pot holes you are going to hit.

Are you running your summer wheels on winter tires?

[jzinckgra]

Just ordered some R2s. $182/Tire. They'll be put on my A4 next week. My wife just got some studded H8s and they look aggressive. Looking forward to ditching the all seasons for awhile

[Wilbur]

For racing or for aggressive pavement driving, sure. For winter?

It still has winter compound but sidewalls are firmer so they handle WAY better in everything except deep snow where they are still really good. They grip just as well as a slower speed rated tire, just less wobbly.

[Usa]

Anyone know the best place to get a set of these?

Also, I was planning on running these on my 18in OEM peelers and leave my Michelin PSS on my 19in AG wheels. What sizing do you recommend? 255/35/R18?

[Tanner]

Anyone know the best place to get a set of these?

By this time of the year, most of the better winter tires from these to the Blizzaks for example are probably in low supply or all sold out.

[VenturiRS]

By this time of the year, most of the better winter tires from these to the Blizzaks for example are probably in low supply or all sold out.

What he said.

What sizing do you recommend? 255/35/R18? 245/40/18; There's a 225/X/18 as well but I forgot.

Aw man, I switched to Hakkapeliitta R2s today and I miss the responsiveness of my Michelins. Bring on the snow dammit!
I love the aggressive tread pattern.

[Tanner]

And if you need winter tires, it seems that there are a lot of those chinese-branded winter tires (ie.: Barum) still available well into the new year :)

[Usa]

And if you need winter tires, it seems that there are a lot of those chinese-branded winter tires (ie.: Barum) still available well into the new year :)

Was just quoted $289 a tire for 245/40/R18 (includes mounting/balancing) seems kind of high although we are in the midst of winter

Edit: Found them for $182 a tire through Discount Tire Direct, free shipping seems like the best way to go.
http://puu.sh/dF8w9/5aa19e5550.png

[Tanner]

Was just quoted $289 a tire for 245/40/R18 (includes mounting/balancing) seems kind of high although we are in the midst of winter

Edit: Found them for $182 a tire through Discount Tire Direct, free shipping seems like the best way to go.
http://puu.sh/dF8w9/5aa19e5550.png

Nice, wished we had those prices up here north of the border. I paid $240CDN/tire for the Yokohama iG52c in that same size before taxes.

[Docwyte]

225-45-18 is the other option, that's what I have.

[mattchat]

Bringing back an old thread, for you guys that bought R2s and WRG3s how did they hold up. I'm on balding Sottozero's that I'll need to replace this winter and I was very happy with them in the dry, not so happy in the snow, they were just okay but I drove careful. That being said, sounds like the R2s are incredible in the snow and ice, WRG3s are incredible on dry roads.

Question, anyone here go from Sottozero's to WRG3s. I want to retain the performance factor but want something a little better overall in snow and ice and I gotta believe the Nokians would be better developed than the Pirelli's.

I'm on 19 inch rotors so I don't have too many choices, especially because I have the RS5 brakes so I gotta go 19s.

Updates please.....[:)]

[zhekastar]

I have the Nokian r2 on my b6 a4 avant and i am amazed on how good it performs, got pulled over in California and the cop was mad at me because 2 cops couldnt catch up with me in snow (i didn't know i was being chased) i was going speed limit which was 70 instead of everyone going 40 with chains, i live in Colorado so i am ready for snow, even pulled my brothers Mercedes sprinter and Durango up a steep driveway with no problems

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