Clyde:
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$100 for an 18" tire is relatively cheap ..... almost 'budget'.
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You may want to consider the 255-55-18 size - this size will provide a little bit more rubber on the road (compared to the OEM 245-60-18), but the diameter is very close to the OEM 245-60-18 size, so there will be no speedo issues.
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There are a number of quality tires available in 255-55-18 size -
you need to consider the type you are looking for: high performance ('V', 'Z') rated), or a tire with good tread wear characteristics. Not that both are mutally exclusive, but (generally speaking) a HP tire will provide better handling and cornering characteristics, but at the expense of wear. Many HP tires are also poor in snow. A tire with good wear will (again - generally speaking) will not provide the feel and handling of the high quality HP tires.
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Pirelli, Michelin, Yokohama, Kumho (these come to mind quickly) offer HP tires in the 255-55 size. Most of these tires will probably run (approx) $150-225 per tire - with the Kumho being the low cost exception at around $100 per tire. The Kumho also has a higher tread wear number compared to most other (all ?) tires in this category - around 320 vs 220. I know the treadwear numbers can be misleading - but it is noteworthy.
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I have 255-55-18 Mastercraft Courser HTR Plus (mfg by Cooper) tires on my VX. They are not what I would consider a performance type tire - they are an 'S' rated all season 'touring' type tire. They do have a decent tread pattern, raised sidewall to protect the rim, and are relatively quiet. They have a 460 treadwear number. They cost (approx) $100 per tire. If I faced a 100 mile roundtrip commute, I would consider these.
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t2p