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I currently have Continentals on our 2002 XK8 Aspen Green (wonderful car). With only 34k on the clock, I recently had a service, timing chain check re correct tensioners, new 'type' waterpump/thermostat, brake fluid replaced by David Marks (excellent service saving some £350+ on labour costs compared to my main dealer) - but, he/MOT said that the 2 front tyres were distorted on the inside tread edge of each tyre (difficult to explain exact problem) and they would need replacing shortly even though they have some 4.5mm tread (any one else had this problem?).

These tyres appear to be quite noisy, give very light steering (compared to our S-Type and new XK) and this is particularly apparent on A roads rather than the motorway.

Grip, cost, noise and longevity are perhaps the top four issues we all consider when comparing tyres although, personally, I would forgo some longevity and be prepared to pay more to maximise grip and minimise noise. So many choices, but only Continentals and Pirelli P Zero originally recommended for XK8 although, I see, that Dunlop now features on many of the new XK's.

Continental CSC, Pirelli PZ, Goodyear Eagle, Dunlop SP900 Sports Max or Michelin - so much choice, but my priority is great grip with lessened noise (and no tramlining) and Dunlop SP900 SM seem to be the ones to offer the best response in this regard whilst also being reasonably priced and offering reasonable longevity.

Any advice views on tyres meeting my requirements? I live near Windsor, and would also appreciate suggestions of a good/careful fitter/supplier (within say 35 miles radius) who will also carry out '4 wheel laser tracking'. Thanks for reading this monologue, and I would appreciate your responses. With thanks .......... Roadster

Hi Roadster ,
I would choose the Dunlops every time , I find them quieter , cheaper , grippier, readily available and absolutely no tramlining ,

Hope this is helpful ,

Nik

I'm not sure if I've grasped your description of the wear pattern correctly but there are two possible related issues. One is early symptoms of wishbone bush wear. XK8s are heavy cars and bushes/bearings are likely to require replacement from around 30k onwards. The second issue tends to affect low mileage cars after a few years. Tyres do not like being parked on the same spot for long periods. Eventually, (and this can be as short as tyres of 6/7 years of age) the tyres go 'out of round'. This condition results in symptoms of repeated poor balance and unusual wear patterns despite correct wheel geometry. At that point tyre replacement is the only cure. Mike.

Hi Nik & and Mike,

Thanks for your very helpful information.

Nik, out of interest I notice Dunlop do the SP9000 and Dunlop SP1, the latter supposedly being a quieter tyre. I was going for the SP9000 later this week, but before I do, have you experience of the SP1 and if so, which do you prefer.

Mike, I recently had the car MOT/Serviced and they did not pick up on the wishbone wear (I presume you were referring to both Upper & Lower front wishbones?) - but I will get re-checked. Whilst I run the car every 3/4 weeks, it does obviously stand for long periods doing most of the mileage in the summer. I have had the car for 4 years and the tyres looked pretty new when I bought it, though they are still at least 4+ years old. I will get the four wheel laser tracking done anyway once I get the new tyres.

Thanks to you both ............... Roadster

Hi Nik & and Mike,

Thanks for your very helpful information.

Nik, out of interest I notice Dunlop do the SP9000 and Dunlop SP1, the latter supposedly being a quieter tyre. I was going for the SP9000 later this week, but before I do, have you experience of the SP1 and if so, which do you prefer.
Mike, I recently had the car MOT/Serviced and they did not pick up on the wishbone wear (I presume you were referring to both Upper & Lower front wishbones?) - but I will get re-checked. Whilst I run the car every 3/4 weeks, it does obviously stand for long periods doing most of the mileage in the summer. I have had the car for 4 years and the tyres looked pretty new when I bought it, though they are still at least 4+ years old. I will get the four wheel laser tracking done anyway once I get the new tyres.

Thanks to you both ............... Roadster

Hi Roadster ,
Only had experience with the Sport Maxx's , just be careful that the "load rating" and the "speed rating" are correct for our cars if choosing/fitting other makes or types of tyre , normally the correct Dunlops or Pirelli's have a "J" moulded into the sidewall which signifies that the load rating is all right for our cars , however , if the load rating is correct the SP9000 or the SP1's may be acceptable , take a look on the tyre manufacturers website to see if they are a recommended fit ,

Hope this helps ,

Nik