another tire question

[mikefocke]

2 or 4 Tires ?

Are you replacing all 4 or just the rears? How much tread is still available on the fronts? Most people get a set of rears and then the next time replace all 4.

Is it safe to have wide differences in tread depth on the same axle? No. The old tire should have 70% or more of its original tread depth for optimum safe handling with a new tire on the same axle.

Can you have different tread types on the 2 axles? You can, not optimum. Wouldn't even be allowed in some countries.

At least put same depth and same tread design on an axle.

Option 1: Stick with what you have and replace only the 2 rears. Then next time plan to change all 4.

Pro: Keeps the tread pattern and handling characteristics mostly consistent. Moderate cost.

Con: Don't get the fun of changing. Don't get the tires you might really want right now.

Option 2: Change only the rear 2 with another brand/pattern.

Pro: Moderate cost.

Con: Most inconsistent handling. May not be an issue in normal highway driving but in the wet and at the limits or in an emergency?

Option 3: Change all 4 with less expensive tires

Pro: Consistent handling. Moderate cost.

Con: All tires are built with compromises. What did the cheap tire leave out to get to this price point? It can be nothing but advertising and profit that make the difference. Hard to tell.

Option 4: Change all 4 with the tires you really want

Pro: Get best tire this way. Totally new experience.

Con: Costs as much as 70% more than options 1, 2 or 3