differences/recommendations between General Exclaim UHP and Kumho Ecsta SPT?

[dougyfresh]

My 18inch summer tires are shot. I thought I could get 'til November with them (when I switch to my winters) but this past weekend's trip up to Northern Maine emphasized I need new tires now. Might also need front wheel bearings. Gotta check that out first.

I currently have the Kumho Ecsta SPTs on there now. Great wet weather traction when there's tread. They just get so loud when worn down.

Do the General Exclaim UHP tires behave similarly? Good wet traction but loud when worn down?

What about the Sumitomo HTR+ tires?


Size: 235/40R18


I drive so much I replace my tires yearly because they are just worn out. And that's with a dedicated set of snow tires/wheels for the winter months. As a result I'm happy spending around $100-$120 a tire and interested in the above three tires.

The only thing I can think of is the Kumhos are rated for more weight and higher speeds.

What air pressure do you recommend in these tires? I keep them at 35psi

Thanks in advance.
Doug

[Doc@tirerack]

Generals and Kumhos are very similar in terms of tread noise. The HTR+ is an all season compound and would be a little more durable (maybe by another 10k miles), but is not quite as sticky if pushed really hard. Quietest tire is the BFG Super Sport @ $ 136 if you can swing it.

[ladedruck]

I have had a few different kumhos but i don't think the ones you are looking at. I can say all my 1.6x 60's have been on general exclaim uhp. they hook really well for a street tire at the strip. Cornering so so. Yes they get a bit noisy but not like a dunlop or anything.

[Kid Red]

I have the Kumhos and had the Exclaim on my prior car. The sidewall of the exclaim is very soft. So soft in fact, I'd always think the tires were under-inflated because they would droop. The Kumhos are fine, the sidewalls seem stiffer and I like the tread. Wet and dry traction seem comparable though I think the Kumhos are a little more quiet. The Kumhos are also more expensive so it's hard to compare. I think I'd go with the Kumhos between the two.