Tyres

[alanb]

Hi to all
I have to replace all four tyres on my XK8 Conv, MY2001. At present it has Conti on front and Michelin on rear. The handbook recommends Pirelli but the local dealer says he cannot get these at present and anyway looking at this forum there seems to be much talk about others for preference. So far I have been offered 4 x Contis for £716 but that seems to be a bit high.
Does anyone have the answer to "what is the best tyre for combination of comfort, performance and length of life?". Wheels are 18", with 245.45 rec for front and 255.45 for rear.
Thanks
Alan

[Bassman]

I have Contisports on 18's and prefer them to the P-Zeros that were on when I got the car, they don't tramline like the P-Zeros did I got the full set fitted for £600 at Martins Tyres in West End, Chobham

[m_hagger]

I have replaced the standard Pirellies that came on my car with Dunlop SP9000 and have found them to be much better than the PZeroes. I have read very good reviews of them elsewhere too. In addition to looking good , they produce much less noise, are a softer compound so give better grip (although compromised by faster wear) and best of all, can be had for around £115 each from outlets like www.protyre.co.uk As long as the tyres are the correct size, load and speed rating, I don't think there should be a problem looking elsewhere than Pirelli.
I think the prices charged for some makes of tyre are outrageous, and these Dunlops seemed to be a good compromise. Think they are now owned by Goodyear these days anyway.....

[alanb]

Thanks for the comments fellas!
As a matter of interest what do you think of as a reasonable life for tyres? Yes, I know that's a "how long is a piece of string" question but I'd be interested in some ideas nonetheless

Also would be interested to hear others' experiences of suspension issues. The front tyres need replacing 'cos the top suspension bushes have worn. Any ideas on reasonable cost to replace those?

Thanks for assistance
Alan

[MarkyM]

Alan

My Goodyear Eagle GS-D3's lasted 24k miles and only had to be replaced due to two nails in the rearmost tyres (so I opted for a new set of Michellin Sport Contacts)

I did pay around £700 though but spread the cost on buy-now-pay-later. To my mind no point comprimising on the only contact you have with the road. 5k miles later and no discernable wear.

I'd look at:

Toyo's
Michellins
Falken 452's (I believe)

I've had no experience with the Falkens but they have got good reviews and are very cheap (when I checked around £400 for a set)

Regards

Mark