daman7676

iTrader: (1)

I know there are lots of threads out there in regards to tires for the RX330/350/400h. Has anyone actually purchased a set of Nitto 850's? I've seen the advertisement here and tried to search online for reviews. There aren't many reviews but of the few that I've found, they seem to be fairly positive.

I know the Bridgestone Alenza's and Kuhmo Venture's seem to get great reviews. But I'm trying to see if the Nitto's are worth a try. I'm in Southern California so weather isn't too much of a concern although we're about to hit the "rainy" season so I am cognoscente of that.

Any advice/help/reviews would be great!

Thanks

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

I want to leach onto this thread. My wife's 08 RX350AWD has 32K miles and its original Good Year tires are almost shot. I decided to go with a little fatter and taller size: 255x55/18.

I am in a process of choosing between Nitto 420S and General Grabber UHP. They both are offered by the tirebuyer for around $135 w/free shipping to some locations.

Both tires have pretty decent reviews and cost about the same (from the tirebuyer) Has anyone ever had any experience with those?

daman7676

iTrader: (1)

Leach on arnieosp!

Just as a heads up, I did email Nitto directly to get the tire weight for the RX sized tire (235/55-18). They responded with: 29.10 lbs.

I've read about "unsprung" weight and how that can affect MPG. I know the Dueler/Alenzas weigh in at 33lbs so the Nitto is definitely a lighter tire.

As I learn more, I think I may just jump on the 850's.

mandyfig

Look at Yokohama's too. I have seen them on our rides. Heard a good review on Nitto once, a long time ago.

richardrx

I am using Nittos NT420S 255/40R20

Ride Quality is great. Even better than the stock 18s Dunlop that came with the RX330.

mandyfig

You have 20's. Ride would be different for us who use 18's. But Nitto feedback is noted.

daman7676

iTrader: (1)

Thanks all.

I did look at the Yokohama's (and I've previously owned a set on my '00 Accord v6 coupe - excellent tires) but the Nitto's look to be extremely comparable for a little bit less money. Just got an '08 GS350 so need to save some $'s.

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

Okay, I got my 255x55x18 Nitto 420S delivered today. I bought them at tirebuyer.com. Paid just a little over $540 for a set of 4, with free delivery by UPS. Tomorrow (tuesday) I am having them installed.

I really hope they fit without any spacers, especially in the back. They look much fatter then the stock ones, but many people on this forum said there won't be any issues.

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

I got my 255/55x18 Nitto 420S installed today. No rubbing, not even close. So, those of you who are still in doubt about the larger (255/55x18, to be exact) tire - don't worry, it fits.

LBCDan

I bought a set of Michelin Touring in the standard 235/55/18 size. The contact patch is 8 inches wide, (1.5 inches wider than the OE Goodyear Eagles), yet they only weigh 27 pounds and there are no issues with rubbing or the rim being too narrow.

mandyfig

How much was the set up out the door?

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

Those of you running 255X55X18, do you guys have any problems with clear coat damage on the doors?

Couple of weeks ago I went to Eastern Oregon. The roads were slick, so the DOT dumped a buttload of sand on the road. After I came back and washed the car, I noticed that the sand from the road had sand-blasted the crap out of the clear coat on all 4 doors below the moldings. I've never had it happened before! The only thing different this time was the width of the tire.

Luckily, the damage is not too bad and 95% should go away after a good buffing job. I ordered the clear-bra material, after the damage is buffed off, I am installing the 3m protective film below the moldings on all 4 doors.

mandyfig

Wow, that's good info. But then again I have mud guards.

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

So, do I. But in this case, the tire sticks out too far for the mudguard to be effective.

daman7676

iTrader: (1)

Reviving this thread...it's actually time for me to replace my tires on the 400h. Looks like Nitto came out with a new 850...the 850+. Called a local dealer who highly recommends those. I also asked him to price out Yokohama Parada Spec-X. He's got them for the same price out the door...what to do?!?!

These are for 235/55/18's. He did mention that the Yoko's don't have a mileage warranty. Anybody else notice this and think this a problem?