2005 X5 in need of new tires

[TiAgX5]

Originally Posted by indianapolisX5

Just had a fresh set of Michelin Latitude Tour HP's bolted on. Disappointed that Pirelli no longer makes the Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico in rear size 285/45-19 - had two sets and was really happy with their performance, and price compared to the Michelins! $1300 at a local shop with Hunter RoadForce GSP9700 balancing - certainly could have saved some $$$ by going with Kumho or Hankook, but I'm a tire snob and refuse to put Korean rubber on my X.

I can't understand why some US BMW owners refuse to install Hankook tires on their vehicles, Hankook is the #1 selling tire in Germany (yeah, that Germany, the one with the Autobahn, has sections with NO speed limits). The Hankook Ventus ASs in the 255-50-19/285-45-19 sizes are all season AND carry a W (168mph) speed rating (high speed driving combined with summer heat will turn most all-season rubber compounds into grease). Many informed owners install higher speed rated rubber due to the fact that once a tire pick up a puncture (roofing nail, etc.) the tire drops a MINIMUM of one speed rating. Hankooks are also lighter, reduced unsprung weight = increased driving dynamics.