Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

Initial Review, 500 Miles on Tires
March 06, 2012

Bought these tires as a replacement set for our 16-year-old's first car, a 2004 Saturn Vue Redline. The Redline comes with Bridgestone 245/50/18's that were replaced by the previous owner at a cost of over $1000 (several years ago). They still had a few miles left on them, but when your daughter is a new driver, you want a good set of tires as insurance. The BFG Spec T/A is slightly taller (.9") as it is a 55 series, but the GPS confirmed there is only a 2mph difference in actual speed (72) with an indicated 70mph on the speedometer. Other than that slight negative, the tires are an exceptional value. I bought from Tire Rack and a set of four were delivered to my home for $374 total. After having them M&B, I was still below $450. Less than have what the OEM Bridgestones would have cost.
From a performance standpoint, the tires have been a good choice. The extra sidewall gives the tires more "give" that smoothed out the ride a bit. The 245/50/18's were a little harsher over road imperfections. Road noise is diminished a noticeable amount. I would say they are 20% less noisy than the Bridgestone Serenity set was. Steering feels very neutral, not snappy or sloppy. Grip into turns feels good with good feedback in the steering wheel. Dry traction is very good and the tires track well, even though the 250hp 3.5 Honda engine and 5-speed tranny creates a bit of torque steer in the Vue FWD (2004 V6 models have the same 3.5 Honda engine used several Honda/Acura models). Wet traction is good, and the weight distribution of the Redline seems to help with braking in wet conditions that matches well with the Spec T/A. I didn't notice any hydroplaning at normal speeds (and I shouldn't with about any new tire). No snow driving has occurred so I can't comment on that.
With the few miles on these tires, I can't comment on longevity, but I feel they are an absolute bargain at the current price, compared to other brands. I don't think they are cutting edge but good, safe tires.