Today I performed my biannual ritual of swapping between summer and snow tires. Not an easy job today with bitter temperatures and wind chills as low as 8 degrees, which we’ve had the last few days.
In previous seasons I would switch much earlier, usually mid to late October. I really pushed it this year as the tread depth on my (still incredible) Nokian Hakkapelittas is getting low, and also because my summer BFG SP Sports work well in lower temperatures (as long as the road is dry). The Yokohamas I had previously would basically fall off a traction cliff in temperatures below 50-60 degrees. So I’ve been very satisfied with the moderately priced BFGs; Excellent dry and wet summer traction, and a wider temperature range.
Another addition I added just over a week ago were Valeo Ultimate wipers. I was tempted for years to get the jointless wipers, but I kept going for the inexpensive blade-only replacements from my dealer’s parts counter. I am downright shocked at how silent the Valeos are. I’ve always been annoyed by wipers both visually and sonically and therefore run them at as low a speed as possible. You can’t even hear these wiping. Contrary to reports I read years ago, they do not lose contact at high speeds either; a small spoiler is molded into the back. We’ll see if they continue to be as impressive through the winter.
Not much other news, as my MINI continues to serve well on my long commute. It will reach 80,000 miles in the next week or so.
Sarah and I both have the PIAA silicone blades on our cars. I was also tentative about losing the spoiler that’s on the stock frames, but these have proven to clear the windshield just as well. I bought mine back in April from OutMotoring and they’ve served me well for about six months. They’re starting to streak a bit, now. I’ve never been particularly sensitive to the noise of the stock blades; these are probably quieter. Given that the replacement blades from the dealership tend to streak and smear literally within days of installation, I’m extremely pleased. I’m planning on getting another set of refills, to the tune of about $18 total.
Are the Valeos refillable? I’m curious to see what the life expectancy is. Twenty bucks per side is pretty steep for something that can’t be refilled (although Tire Rack seems to have a 2-for-1 deal right now).
Comment by Brian Lalor — November 24, 2008 @ 8:07 am
TireRack’s 2-for-1 deal has literally been there for years, making the whole set $27 shipped. I’m not so sure refills are available considering the blade itself is the majority of the wiper.
Comment by Josh Wardell — November 24, 2008 @ 8:44 am
I’d say “where’s the picture” of the new blades … but I guess I can just stroll outside and take a look 😉
Comment by Ian C. — November 26, 2008 @ 2:51 pm