Need local opinions. Have read a lot of tire opinions, but am still undecided.

Need new tires for a '03 WRX wagon (stock wheels, suspension and brakes). Might, maybe, posssibly upgrade some of the above in the future. Maybe.

Currently rolling on Michelin Pilot Sports (PS2s?) bought at Costco almost 3 years ago. They were decent for about the first 10k miles, but are barely better than the stock RE92s, now.

Looking for (in approximate priority order)

1. Good handling for a WRX wagon
2. Comfortable over Sacto area highways/roads
3. Decent wet handling
4. Decent wear AND no major deteroriation of 1 - 3 over the first 20k+ miles
5. Not too noisy
6. Available locally (Elk Grove), preferrably Discount Tire, Schwab or Costco
7. Not too expensive
8. Not dangerous in the snow

Whadday think?

 

Falken Ziex 512

 

Thanx. Read a Soggy (I think) review about the Falken 512s, a while ago, but it was a bit old. I respect Soggy's (and yours, nKoan) opinions.

So, anything I need to know about the Falken 512s? Any new reviews?

 

bfg kdw's 225 45 16

 

Really? Reviews that I have found so far are mixed.

Thanks!!!! If I can get them, some BFGs (some KDW types, at least) have a coupon rebate at Costco next week.

Does Coscto sipe tires? Is it worth it (noisewise, etc.)?

 

+1!!!!!!:RockOn - not mine:

 

haha my sti has BFG KDW's 245/45/17... I like em... wish i went with the kd's though

 

i didnt know they made em that size, thought smallest was 225 35 17?

i rock falken 615s, love em, and ive heard good things about the 512

 

ohi, i r firestone. i r do lifetime alignment for 150...

 

I've run 512's and like them as well. Quiet, cheap, decent performance, tons of sizes.

 

I've had them on my car now for about 9 months or so. They are quiet and comfortable on the roads. I've driven on the snow with them, and they are okay (not great, but okay). There is a huge water channel in the center and they are great in the wet. They are available from Discount Tire Direct and are relatively cheap (I remember paying $400 for the set of 225/45/17, not counting mounting and balancing).

The only downsides I can think of, based on your criteria is that compared with other "performance" tires, they don't have as much grip. But then again, if you want all-season tires, you are going to have to give that up anyway. For a street tire, I think they handle just fine. If you are planning on being a jackass on the road, then you might have something to complain about.

These tires are relatively soft, so longevity is based on how hard you push them. I'm at about 10k miles on them or so, and they are around 1/3 - 1/2 worn down. I haven't noticed any deterioration in ride quality with they wear.

 

good all around tires for a good price. Quiet and responsive. Good in Rain and snow. We currently have a set on the white wagon now. Those tires have been on mountain runs with no complains. (considering they are cheap all seasons)

 

but treadwear on the street sux!

i've had mine for less than 6 months (Oct 06) and already i'm seeing the wear bars.

BFG KDW2s are a great tire IMO.

 

I love my RT-615's, but I doubt they'll give you the longevity you're looking for.

 

ive got some BFG g force sports on the rims i have now, they are awesome, they are pretty good in all aspects.. they are a bit loud though..but come on, somethings gotta give