My 2004 T1N needs a new set of shoes. I've been shopping around for tires with more of a highway-oriented tire as I won't be venturing into treacherous terrain (with the van, anyway.) As everyone knows, not all tires are created equal. In looking around, I've noticed a pretty big discrepancy in the weight of different tires that are all load range E. For example, the XPS from Michelin I looked at weigh in at nearly 50 pounds each. Some off-brand tires of the same size and spec weigh just under 35. Fifteen pounds is a pretty substantial difference!
So, my question is this. Are there advantages (other than price) to lighter tires? We all know the Michelins would be far more robust and durable. However, would they provide a stiffer/bumpier ride? I've read that commercial tires often have a harsher feel. It makes sense as the thicker tread and walls probably don't deflect as much. With a smoother ride, it seems like the rest of the van (as well as the humans inside) would absorb less vibration and have a healthier life.
Most of my driving will be on the highway. Heavier loads would be no more than twice per year. The Michelins on my truck have tread life left but also have severe sidewall cracking. Same happened to my BF Goodrich tires My tires tend to age out before the tread disappears. So, I'm not sure an Armageddon tire (such as the beefy XPS) is ideal for me. Am I at least somewhat correct in my assumptions?
So, my question is this. Are there advantages (other than price) to lighter tires? We all know the Michelins would be far more robust and durable. However, would they provide a stiffer/bumpier ride? I've read that commercial tires often have a harsher feel. It makes sense as the thicker tread and walls probably don't deflect as much. With a smoother ride, it seems like the rest of the van (as well as the humans inside) would absorb less vibration and have a healthier life.
Most of my driving will be on the highway. Heavier loads would be no more than twice per year. The Michelins on my truck have tread life left but also have severe sidewall cracking. Same happened to my BF Goodrich tires My tires tend to age out before the tread disappears. So, I'm not sure an Armageddon tire (such as the beefy XPS) is ideal for me. Am I at least somewhat correct in my assumptions?