In the market of domestically produced SUVs, Chevrolet Niva has long occupied a leading position. Operation of the vehicle is impossible without periodic maintenance and timely replacement of consumable spare parts and materials. Seasonal tire changes are also extremely important. The reliability of the vehicle during operation and its safety on the road largely depend on the correct choice of winter tires.
Nuances of choosing tires and wheels
For off-road driving, it is not enough to choose a suitable vehicle. In order for a car to perform the tasks assigned to it, it must be equipped with the right tires.
Depending on the configuration, the car can be equipped with stamped steel wheels with a diameter of 15″, cast products of the same size, or wheels on 16″ alloy wheels. Standard tire sizes: 205/75R15, 205/70R15, 215/65R16. In addition, the design of the vehicle allows us to consider 195/70, 185/70 tires for installation on it. Despite the fact that these are the wheels recommended by the manufacturer, it is better to consider tires with a higher profile for an SUV.
When choosing tires for the Niva, as well as wheels, you need to know the standard parameters of the Niva wheels:
- Rim H - 6″;
- rim d – 15″;
- bolt pattern: 5 x 39.5;
- distance between the disk mounting point and the rim surface (offset) - 40 mm;
- The hole size for the hub is 98.5 mm.
The best wheels for a field in winter, according to experts, are products with parameters 215/70 R16 and speed index T or H. However, car owners usually focus on both personal preferences and financial capabilities.
Recommend all-season
Recommend all-season
Post by Sash » 08 Feb 2012, 20:48
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by rum » 08 Feb 2012, 21:33
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by Warlock » 08 Feb 2012, 22:04
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by Vladimir55 » 08 Feb 2012, 22:26
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by rum » 08 Feb 2012, 22:35
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by Vladimir55 » 08 Feb 2012, 23:02
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by den-rio » Sep 20, 2012, 10:53 am
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by Sunny » Sep 20, 2012, 12:07 pm
Re: Recommend all-season
Post by Sash » Sep 20, 2012, 01:44 pm
The Kama-232 is perfect for summer asphalt, and according to comparative tests (the Zarulevites carried them out, I don’t remember exactly) it performed well on both dry and wet asphalt. Of course, there is no point in sticking it into the big mud. A little off-road is hard to stomach. It’s dangerous to drive it in winter; a couple of times my dad turned around almost out of the blue, even at a low speed (about 50 km/h), it’s good that there were no oncoming traffic.
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Winter tires
Responsible owners of iron horses have a separate set of wheels for each season: summer and winter. Many even purchase special tires to overcome mud. This approach seems to be the most correct. Although there are still those who believe that since the Chevrolet Niva is positioned as an SUV, there is no need to change summer tires with the onset of cold weather. The reason in this case is usually the same - the desire to save money. Of course, purchasing a new seasonal kit comes with costs. In addition, when changing wheels, you will have to spend money not only on their installation, but also on balancing.
However, savings in this case are unacceptable.
- The aerodynamics of an SUV are not its strongest side, so a car with all-wheel drive and high ground clearance does not have high stability on slippery surfaces.
- Off-road qualities are manifested not at all on an icy road, but off-road.
- The weight of 4x4 vehicles is significantly higher compared to their passenger counterparts, which is why they are characterized by greater inertia and, accordingly, longer braking distances.
So you can’t ignore the rules that apply to owners of regular hatchbacks or sedans. As you know, for different seasons, tires are made from certain rubber compounds that differ in ductility in different temperature ranges. Summer tires lose their elasticity, which largely determines the car’s behavior on the road, already at +5 degrees; all-season tires can be used down to -5.
When choosing tires, you should focus on the climatic conditions of the region. Many people are concerned about the question of whether it is possible to install all-season wheels on a Niva. If there is no frost or snow in winter, then you can opt for these tire models. Frequent trips to icy surfaces require the installation of studded tires.
And, of course, do not forget that the tires change on both axles and all tires must be the same (from the same manufacturer and the same parameters).
Important! Tire pressure must comply with the parameters set by the manufacturer. Otherwise, the car's behavior on the road may be unpredictable.
Only by observing these requirements can you ensure comfort and safety for yourself and others.
Tire prices
The cost of tires depends on the manufacturer and tire size. At the same time, summer, winter and all-season tires of the same manufacturer and size are almost the same in price. Only studded tires are noticeably more expensive.
Approximate cost of 15-inch tires for Chevrolet Niva:
- Kama Flame - 3600 rub.
- Dunlop - 4300 rub.
- Hankook - 4350 rub.
- Barguzin - 3000 rub.
Tires for Shniva with a seat size of 16 inches are slightly more expensive.
To increase the ground clearance of the Chevrolet Niva, ready-made or home-made “lifting kits” are used. When lifting a car at a high altitude, even shock absorbers, springs and some other suspension parts have to be changed. Thanks to this, it will be possible to insert tires of increased height into the wheel arches. Typically, lifted Shnivy tires are fitted with tires up to 240/80 R15.
Basic rules for choosing tires
To make it easier for consumers to understand the assortment offered today, all tires have markings, after studying which, one can draw a conclusion about the advisability of the purchase.
In addition to the brand name, country of manufacture and tire model, which also largely determine the cost of the product, it is important to pay attention to several aspects.
- Tire size. The height and width of the profile, as well as the diameter of the rim, are indicated on the tire.
- Speed index. Driving style largely depends on it.
Those who like to race should choose a model with a high index.
- Load index. This indicator determines the maximum permissible load on the tire at maximum internal pressure. Exceeding the maximum permissible value may result in damage to the wheels. Therefore, when choosing winter tires for the Chevy Niva, it is recommended to consider models with some reserve in terms of load capacity.
- Wear resistance index. The higher its value, the longer the service life.
- Marking confirming the safety of the tire. The abbreviation DOT indicates that the product has been approved by the US Department of Transportation. The ECE marking confirms compliance with European standards.
Winter tires today are available in two versions: studded and friction. Tires that do not have studs are divided into two types (depending on the tread pattern):
- European. The main purpose of such rubber is maximum grip when driving on wet or snowy roads. For this purpose, the tread is a pattern located diagonally. The pattern is formed from a large number of slots to drain water and dirt. The lugs are located along the edges of the tread.
- Scandinavian. These tires have good grip on icy roads, as well as on snow-covered roads. Unlike the diagonal composition of European protectors, Scandinavian ones have rectangular checkers placed in a checkerboard pattern. If you are choosing which winter tires to put on a Chevy Niva for operation in harsh weather conditions, it is recommended to give preference to this type of pattern.
Studded tires cope well with icy crust, breaking it up. Unlike most friction tires, tires equipped with studs are characterized by increased noise levels when driving.
Which all-season vehicle is better for Niva?
Since Niva cars come from the factory by default only with all-season tires K 156-1 from the Kirov Tire Plant, the question of alternatives arises. Many Niva drivers prefer to choose the best rollers for the conditions in which their SUV will be used. Therefore, if you want to replace the standard with more suitable tires, advice will not be superfluous due to the abundance of choice and prices of such products.
When looking for all-season tires, you should pay attention to the following criteria:
We will not take into account driving speeds; an SUV is not a sports car.
For the eldest of the Niv 2121 family, lighter tires are preferable due to lower power. Niva 21213 is equipped with a more powerful engine and a 5-speed gearbox. Larger sneakers are suitable for it - 205/70/R15, or Kama 232. The differences between 2121 and 2131 are that the latter has an injector and 21213 from 21214 too. This will not significantly affect the choice of shoes.
What models are recommended for installation on a Chevrolet Niva for winter use?
Previously, at the factory, cars were equipped with Kama tires with standard sizes 185/75 R16. However, it should be noted that the Niva has a rather low landing. And these tires are not intended for an SUV at all, as they instantly become clogged with dirt.
For winter, it is recommended to opt for tires in sizes 215/65. But, in addition to geometric parameters, a well-chosen brand of winter tires is important. For those who are studying winter tires for Niva 4x4: this review can help you understand the range offered.
Michelin Latitude Alpine
This tire is designed specifically for 4x4 SUVs. It behaves well not only in cold weather, but also during temperature changes. The profile, slightly rounded, helps not to lose traction when turning.
Nokian Hakkapelita R
Designed specifically for countries with cold climates in winter, these tires perform well on the road in all weather conditions. A drop in fuel consumption for cars equipped with these tires was also noted. This option is worthy of consideration by those choosing winter wheels for the Niva.
Cordiant Polar SL
Tires without studs, the cost of which is quite budgetary, perform excellently when the thermometer readings drop below -5 degrees. Therefore, it is not recommended to visit a tire service long before frost. In winter, rubber copes well with ice, and even better with slush.
Kumho I'Zen KW22
Tires with studs perform well when moving on ice. They are budget friendly. However, over the course of a season, you can lose almost a fifth of your studs (especially if you drive on asphalt surfaces).
Amtel NordMaster ST-310
The rubber is characterized by decent cross-country ability; it starts and brakes well on ice crust. The spikes are quite securely fastened; they practically do not fly out when driving. The tires don't handle snow so well. In addition, they are characterized by a high noise level (when driving at speeds greater than 60 km/h). The price of tires is quite reasonable.
Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000
Reviews from those who have already tested this rubber testify to its merits, even without taking into account the brand. What can we say about the tires: they are not too noisy and perform well on icy surfaces. Thorns are practically not lost during the season. Wheels dressed in this tire cope somewhat worse with loose snow slush. But in terms of price/quality ratio, these are good winter wheels for the Niva.
Goodyear Ultragrip Ice Arctic
In the middle price segment, this model stands out for its ability to hold both icy road surfaces and loose snow slush well. Moreover, in the latter case, it does this no worse than tires designed for driving on mud. The studs that are installed on the tires have an interesting shape. They are square. Due to this they have special tenacity. Moreover, they hold quite firmly in the tire.
If the car accelerates to a speed of about 70 km/h, a noise can be clearly heard. However, this is typical for almost all tires with studs. In connection with the above, this option can be recommended to those who are deciding which winter tires are best for the Chevrolet Niva.
The purchase of winter tires should not be delayed until the onset of cold weather. It’s better to worry about equipping your iron horse in advance.
Owner reviews
I use the tires as Velcro. In winter, it holds onto the coating well and in the demi-season period as well. Snow is not a hindrance for her; driving on unpaved surfaces is at altitude. I am pleased with the Kama-Flame bast shoes.
The second winter has begun on the Goform W70. Very pleased for the money. It is completely silent and holds the road well. No wear is visible, no hernias appear. I recommend it to everyone, good tires for the money!
Specialization : Graduated from the State Automobile University, worked for 20 years at GAZ-56, now I drive a Zhiguli.
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Let's be specific
Niva is good because it is available almost everywhere; there are clubs for its fans even in Japan, where its own auto industry is well developed. You can buy decent tires for the VAZ 21214 at a price of 4.5 thousand rubles per tire. For example, “Bear” belonging to the I-569 series. It performs just fine off-road, but is not suitable for driving on ice, and wears out quickly on dry asphalt surfaces. If you want confidence on the pavement, then consider the Cordiant “off road”. A plus for many Niv fans is that these are domestic manufacturers with an impeccable reputation.
If you want to experience American quality on domestic roads, then get ready to fork out between 8 and 15 thousand rubles. The BF GOODRICH brand, Mud Terrain series KM1 and KM2, received the most flattering reviews. The cost of 8 thousand is intimidating, but you can’t put it on the list of disadvantages of this model, because every ruble in the price tag is justified. If you plan to drive only off-road, then you should consider an option such as extreme tires from Silverstone such as MT-117.
