Quote:
Originally Posted by hambone1983
I see this is leaning off towards a heated opinionated debate already 
Indeed tires are tires, in contact with the road and all... but its also personal preference. Many tire manufacturers make great products, and yes some are defective, or bad review because a user did not like it and vice versa. I read plenty of posts here and many vouch for the Vredestiens, Toyo's, Pirelli's, etc. None of which are standard BMW tires to be acceptable or in the manufacturer books as acceptable replacements. BMW only suggests Bridgestone or Michelins RFT for the X5 E70. Yes, some people like to stick with what the book says, and some don't. Nothing wrong with that either... again personal preference!
Some may want expensive tires, to ensure they pay for what they get concept and are in fact inclined towards the top tire company such as Michelin, etc. And some of us may go to less marketed but decent enough tires that have a good reputation as well. Any tire can run into issues, RFT or not, and Bridgestone or el-cheapo mastercrafts. Same goes to a $70K which vehicle can be found lemon and infested with issues, or a 13K brand new Kia with no issues at all for 200K miles and more.
Marketing indeed has to do with all... there is nothing wrong in trying out what works good for someone individually. I personally don't have any issue in spending $1400 in new Michelin RFT tires, but personal decision to save 700 and try out the Toyo's could be worth the savings, and enjoying the ride. |
I did go with a non-RFT Michelin, so I'm not one to stick with what BMW says is best. The non-RFT Michelin Latitude is much better than the two different run flat tires I've had before. I also tend not to be a brand snob or (or buy French stuff), but Michelin tires have never let me down, other than they tend to wear out quicker than other similar tires. I too track another car and I have never used an expensive Michelin at the track. I've had good results with Toyos, Nittos, and Dunlops. My experience with Contis and Pirellis have been somewhat disappointing.