Falken 912 vs Kumho Ecsta SPT

[dj_chinaman2097]

On the Mazda3Forums I've been reading reviews on Falken ZE-912 and Kumho Ecsta SPT. But I think a review from anyone here who's tried them both, preferrably in 225/40/R18, would be more valuable.

I don't drive really fast but I don't really slow down for turns either. So I'm kinda leaning towards the Falken's because of the harder sidewall.

Good tread life, wet & dry traction and handling, and moderate-to-low noise are important.

Thoughts?

[baymoe]

The ZE-512 which later was replaced by ZE-912 line of tires were mediocre tires, experiencing poor treadwear and only decent grip in the dry (still significantly better than regular allseasons though). The SPTs on the other hand offered far better sidewall stiffness and excellent wet weather performance. I've only installed the SPTs in the spring so I can't tell you how they wear. If the 912 are anything like the 512, without a doubt, go with the SPT. Far better traction all around. The treadwear on the two sets of 512s were downright horrible.

[mEtH]

512 is known to be horrible for treadware, guess thats why they were so cheap.
I am looking at the same options on the setup I plan to run, as this time around I am looking for more comfort. The 912s are said to be a lot better that the 512s but I am leaning towards the SPTs because of those treadware issues from before. From what 1010tires is showing it still has some quick ware and with it being an all-season I am leaning heavily toward the SPTs. If an all-season is something you would rather consider then I would look at the ASX as they have always had a great rating. The only other tire I am considering is the 452s again because they handle great, but it depends on the offset of the wheels I get as they tend to have a very squared off sidewall. The SPTs I hear have a softer sidewall then other brands out there which is about the only flaw I have heard.

[zedtech]

I have the 912s... well I put the snows on after the first snowfall and for good reason. So far the 912s are good in dry/wet. In the snow they are useless, right up there w/ how bad the RSAs are in the snow. My g/f has all season Michelin Harmony's on her 3 and they kick the 912's ass bigtime in the snow (after driving her car in the last snow storm). As a Spring-Fall tire, the 912 is great. If you're thinking about putting them on now for the winter season, then I'd have to vote "nay" merely for how bad they are in the snow.

[dj_chinaman2097]

The two options in consideration are strictly for summer use on Rx-8 rims. I have the Hankook W300 in 205/50/R16 on steelies for winter.

So far it looks like the Kumho set is the better option.

Vlad, if you see this, tell me about your experience with the Falkens!

[mEtH]

I dont think Vlad runs 912...? does he? I could of sworn he was on Azenis 615s