New tyre tread depths

[DRDT]

Have just had fitted a new set of rear Michelin Pilot Sports to my 03 C2 - 285/30 ZR 18 N3. They replace a previous pair of the same specification fitted back in Jan '11 and had done 19K miles so well pleased. However the new tyres have a tread depth (max) of only 7.2mm whereas the last set had 8.5mm. Why the big difference? The tyres are new, with labels still attached before fitting and in all respects appear to be the same as the previous set but over a 1mm less tread. Is this usual? Good value anyway at £245.95 a tyre fully fitted etc.

 

[Wollemi]

My new PS2s (N2s) fitted just prior to my getting my 09 Boxster S from Solihull OPC have only 7mm ( maybe 7.2!) so maybe this is what you get these days. Might be worth giving Michelin technical support a ring; I've always found them very helpful and happy to chat about tyres.

 

[Gordon Attar]

Resent Continental Sport contact 2 had 6.8 to 7.2 mm!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[NXI20]

Going the way of confectionary & other goods. You get less than you used to for the same money. It's happening to anything that is in a competitive market where price plays a big part in the purchasing decision.

 

[DRDT]

I suspect you are right and was a thought I had myself. With 15% less starting tread that makes a big difference to the mileage before the next change. C'est la vie.