Tires for lots of gravel use

[79TA7.6]

I figured this would be the best place to ask this question as it is neither an upgrade, nor generation specific.

I drive a lot of gravel road. Of my 140 mile daily round trip I am on gravel for a minimum of 15 miles, this is just if I do not have to make a run back into town for something. At any rate, I am going to be in need of some tires, something that will hold up better to the gravel. I just started a new job, which puts me driving more gravel. The current tires, Granada Touring somethings, only have about 30K miles and are shot, big time. I have though about raising my car, which now would be a great time to get the larger tires, but at the same time I need to keep my MPG up. If I do raise it then I will go with a taller tire, likely something with a little more aggressive thread. If I keep it stock height then I really need something that will wear good on the gravel.

What do you all have that has treated you well?

 

[maxmoo]

Hi, I'm a farmer who uses his 2000 golf as a work vehicle driving a lot of gravel roads (and fields).
I raised my golf about 1- 1 1/2 inches front and back by installing wagon sprinngs in the rear and auto springs with a 10mm spacer(from VR6) on the front and a defender skid plate.
I've also installed a peloquin limited slip differential, not really necesary but this car can go almost anywhere!
As far as tires go I've tried many different types and sizes over the years.
I now go with good quality used snow tires in the summer and high quality new Hakapalita R snows in the winter size P195 R65-15.
The snows wear quickly in the summer but provide excellent traction on all surfaces and last till winter comes.
I have tried different sizes and found that stock end up working as well as anything.
Good used snows can usually be picked up pretty cheap in the spring.

 

[79TA7.6]

Thanks for the idea. I am not sure that buying used snow tires will be the way to go for me though. They seem to catch a higher price here as they are not too often advertised until late fall, plus the added expense of having tires installed and balanced every year.

The research continues.

 

[DPM]

Dunno about that side of the Pond, but here you can get gravel-pattern in new and remoulds?

 

[1854sailor]

Get on the phone with TireRack or one of the other major tire dealers and ask one of the experts.

 

[79TA7.6]

Thanks for the ideas guys. I have been working some long days and have not had time to get back on here.