I've been searching around the net trying to find a list of the best LRR tires in terms of price, treadwear, and traction. I keep getting the Bridgestone B381, Nokian NRT2, and Sumitomo HRT 200 in my search. These tires, however, are not available in the size that I need (205/55/R16). Can anybody help me out in finding the best LRR tires in my wheel size?
Yeah, don't be afraid to play around w/the sizes a little...
Just don't screw yourself by winding up with a tire that rotates more than yours does in a given mile (that figure will/should be stated on a stats page for each tire...I know that tirerack.com does this). Also, be sure to check out that miata.net tire size calculator to find out what different sizes will compare to your stock tire size. Google those search terms that I just gave you and you'll find the page immediately.
I've seen the Michelin Energy MXV4 Plus mentioned as a LRR tire. I don't know what sizes are available.
I recently bought tires and did not have the funds for MXV4 Plus in the budget. I bought Kumho Solus KH16's from TireRack.com; they are a traditional design highway tread all season with 44 psi limit and a 440 treadwear number. Generally a higher treadwear number indicates lower rolling resistance as the higher treadwear comes from harder rubber compounds. FWIW.
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Currently getting +/- 50 mpg in fall weather. EPA is 31/39 so not too shabby. WAI, fuel cutoff switch, full belly pan, smooth wheel covers.
For my car (175/65/14R), the best LRR tire was the Goodyear Viva 2, and it also happened to be one of the cheapest tires. I got them at Wally World for 44 and change each.
I found my info on a web site, but don't have the link. They tested several brands.
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