The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 W429 is a studdable winter passenger car tire engineered for serious performance on snow and ice. Designed for coupes, sedans, CUVs, and SUVs, this 235/45R18 XL tire delivers confident handling and traction in the harshest northern winter conditions, with the option to add studs for maximum mechanical grip on ice.
At the core of its ice performance is Ice Slit Design Technology, which multiplies contact edges on icy surfaces for improved braking and traction. The tire also features an optimized stud pin layout with increased stud rows for superior grip on hard-packed ice. Zigzag winter grooves efficiently channel snow and water away from the contact patch, reducing hydroplaning risk in wet winter conditions.
The tread architecture incorporates a wide center block for stable straight-line tracking and a unique 2-in-1 shoulder block design paired with a side edge step-down design that increases friction surface area for improved side snow grip in deep snow. Claw edges on both sides of the tread bite aggressively into snow for added grip, while optimized 3D sipe technology enhances handling and braking performance across a range of winter surfaces. Increased pitch numbers further reduce pattern noise for a more comfortable ride.
Built with a UHT (Ultra High Tensile) steel belt, the Winter i*Pike RS2 W429 delivers excellent puncture resistance, high-speed stability, and long-lasting durability. High-Flex (HF) bead rubber absorbs road vibrations to improve ride comfort. This tire carries the M+S rating and the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, certifying it meets severe snow service requirements.
Key Features:
- Studdable design — pre-drilled hole pattern allows stud installation for maximum ice grip
- Ice Slit Design Technology — multiplies biting edges for superior ice traction and braking
- Zigzag winter grooves — efficiently evacuate snow and water to reduce hydroplaning
- Wide center block — promotes straight-line stability and steering response
- Unique 2-in-1 shoulder block design — enhances cornering grip and lateral stability
- Claw edges on both sides — aggressive snow biting for improved grip
- Side edge step-down design — increases friction surface area in deep snow
- Optimized 3D sipe technology — improves handling and braking on all winter surfaces
- Optimized stud pin rows — maximized stud count for best possible ice traction
- UHT steel belt construction — puncture resistance and high-speed durability
- HF bead rubber — absorbs vibrations for a smoother, more comfortable winter drive
- M+S rated & Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certified
- XL (Extra Load) rated — higher load capacity for heavier vehicles
The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 W429 in size 235/45R18 98T XL (MPN: 1032480) is the studdable (non-pre-studded) version. It offers a balanced combination of ice traction, snow performance, and ride comfort for drivers who demand dependable winter safety season after season.