265/60R18 Winter Tires in Newfoundland: Maxtrek M900 Ice vs M7
Drivers searching for 265/60R18 winter tires in Newfoundland often have a straightforward choice to make: buy a tire that can accept studs, or choose a dedicated studless winter design. True North Tires currently carries both options in the Maxtrek lineup, making it possible to compare them in the same size, load index and speed rating.
This guide explains what 265/60R18 XL 114S means and compares the Maxtrek Trek M900 Ice with the Maxtrek Trek M7 for compatible SUVs and light-duty vehicles.
What does 265/60R18 XL 114S mean?
- 265 is the nominal section width in millimetres.
- 60 is the aspect ratio, so the sidewall height is approximately 60% of the section width.
- R indicates radial construction.
- 18 means the tire fits a compatible 18-inch wheel.
- XL means extra load.
- 114 is the load index.
- S is the speed rating.
Matching the size alone is not enough to confirm fitment. Always check the tire placard on the driver’s door jamb and the owner’s manual, then confirm the required load and speed ratings before ordering.
Maxtrek 265/60R18 winter tire options
Maxtrek Trek M900 Ice: studdable winter tire
The Maxtrek Trek M900 Ice 265/60R18 XL 114S is listed as a dedicated studdable winter tire. Its verified specifications include:
- Size: 265/60R18
- XL extra-load designation
- Load index: 114
- Speed rating: S
- Winter-studdable construction
A studdable tire gives drivers the option of adding metal studs for additional mechanical bite on hard-packed snow and ice. That can be useful for routes with frequent freezing, steep grades, untreated roads or early-morning travel before roads are fully cleared.
Studs must be installed correctly and used only during the legally permitted period in Newfoundland and Labrador. A studdable tire can also be operated without studs, but the decision should be made before the tires accumulate road use because used tires generally should not be newly studded.
Maxtrek Trek M7: studless winter tire
The Maxtrek Trek M7 265/60R18 XL 114S is listed as a dedicated studless winter tire. Its verified specifications include:
- Size: 265/60R18
- XL extra-load designation
- Load index: 114
- Speed rating: S
- Studless winter construction
The Trek M7 is the straightforward choice for compatible vehicles whose drivers want a winter-specific tire without metal studs. Studless tires suit the mixed conditions commonly encountered during Newfoundland commuting, where a single trip may include cold pavement, slush, snow and patches of ice.
Trek M900 Ice vs Trek M7: what is the difference?
Both current listings share the same 265/60R18 size, XL designation, 114 load index and S speed rating. The main distinction is whether the tire is designed to accept studs:
- Trek M900 Ice: choose this option if you want a winter tire with the ability to add studs.
- Trek M7: choose this option if you want a dedicated studless winter tire.
Neither choice replaces careful winter driving. Braking distance and available traction still change with temperature, road treatment, ice, snow depth, tire condition and vehicle load. Leave extra following distance and adjust speed to the conditions.
For a more detailed overview of the two categories, read our studded versus studless winter tire guide for Newfoundland.
How to confirm these tires fit your vehicle
Check the original tire specification
The driver-door placard is the best starting point. Confirm the complete size and the vehicle manufacturer’s load and speed requirements. Do not assume every SUV with 18-inch wheels uses 265/60R18.
Confirm the winter wheel dimensions
If you are buying separate winter wheels, diameter is only one measurement. Width, bolt pattern, offset and centre bore must also be compatible with the vehicle and provide adequate brake and suspension clearance.
Use four matching winter tires
Installing a matching set of four helps maintain balanced traction and predictable handling. Mixing winter and non-winter tires, or different winter designs between axles, can create unequal grip.
Maintaining 265/60R18 winter tires
Check tire pressure when the tires are cold and use the pressure specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Pressure commonly falls as outdoor temperatures drop. Inspect the tires regularly for damage, uneven wear and declining tread depth, especially after pothole impacts or long highway trips.
Periodic rotation can promote more even wear when permitted by the tire and vehicle configuration. If the vehicle pulls, vibrates or develops irregular tread wear, have the wheel balance, alignment and suspension inspected.
Frequently asked questions
Are 265/60R18 and LT265/60R18 the same?
No. The LT prefix indicates a light-truck tire specification. Construction, load range and inflation requirements can differ. Use the type approved for the vehicle rather than treating the sizes as automatically interchangeable.
Can the Maxtrek Trek M7 be studded?
No. The active Trek M7 listing is a studless winter tire. The Trek M900 Ice is the studdable option.
Do both Maxtrek options have the same rating?
The current listings are both 265/60R18 XL 114S. Fitment should still be confirmed against the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.
Should winter tires be installed on all four wheels?
Yes. A matching set of four is recommended to provide balanced traction, braking and handling.
Order 265/60R18 winter tires in Newfoundland
True North Tires can help confirm fitment and compare the studdable Maxtrek Trek M900 Ice with the studless Trek M7. Visit TrueNorthTires.ca or call 709-714-1901 for current availability and Newfoundland delivery information.