Tire recommendations - S80

SeattleS80 · Post by **SeattleS80** » 11 Jan 2010, 00:49

I just bought new Volvo OEM 17"X7" alloy wheels -"Canopus" to replace my factory installed 16" wheels. I wanted to go "up" in size and I just like the clean and simple look of the Canopus wheel style. Looks more Scandinavian to me. Since I have to buy a new set of larger tires, I was wondering if any of you have tire recommendations. What kinds of tires do you run with? Are you happy with them? Any suggestions based on your own experiences?

I'm currently considering the following:
FALKEN Ziex-ZE 512
KUMHO Ecsta ASX
YOKOHAMA S.Drive
CONTINENTAL ExtremeContact DWS

All are fairly well reviewed online and all are in the same price catagory.

I'd appreciate any input, insight, knowledge and suggestions. Thanks.

Geordie · Post by **Geordie** » 16 Jan 2010, 16:42

I run Nokian summer & Ice radials on my S-80 and love them both.

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 16 Jan 2010, 18:09

I have Yokohama Avid V4S tires on my car. Nice quiet ride and not too expensive. Supposed to have long tread life and good for all-season.

The Kumhos and S-drive supposedly wear out pretty fast, but stick well. Nice summer tires. Between those two, I'd go with the S-drive.

SeattleS80 · Post by **SeattleS80** » 16 Jan 2010, 18:55

I've decided to go with the 17" Falken Ziex ZE-912s. It was rated #1 spot in Consumer Reports ratings for UHP tires. The reviews I've read online suggest it has a very good ride and grip and it's one of the best priced tires in its catagory as well - about $116 (Discount Tire). Its only critical marks: tread life, which isn't top priority with me since I only put on around 4K miles a year on my car - and handling in snow and ice - which isn't that important to me since I live in Seattle, which doesn't get a lot of snow & ice. And I do very little mountain driving.

Thanks for your recommendations, guys. I'll let you know what I think of the Falkens after installation.