LTX M/S2 or Duratrac

So I've narrowed down my tire selection to 4 tires, but only 2 seem realistic because of load-range and weight. My 2 options are the P-rated LTX M/S2 or a load-range C Duratrac, both in 265/75/16. The others that I've considered but ignored were Cooper ST Maxx in 255/85/16, and BFGoodrich's AT KO2 in 265/75/16. Both of those last 2 are load range E and quite frankly this truck just doesn't warrant that kind of a tire.

I've been looking for something with an overall balanced feel. Good highway manners are my most important attribute and quite frankly the only reason the LTX M/S2 has been left in the running. The second most important thing for me is winter manners and I've heard both seem to be great there.

I don't go offroad with this truck much (never more than a barely used 2-track in the woods). I don't intend to take it offroading either. I just really love the look of a good aggressive tire.

Any thoughts on road noise, highway manners, winter driving or wear-habits of these two options?

Thanks!

 

MS2 hands down. No debate. They are amazing on road and their great traction still applies to solid surfaces off road (like slick rock for example). I had to slam on the brakes a couple days back because of an idiot ahead of me who slammed on the brakes when he missed a turn. I was so glad I had MS2's on. I stopped on a dime without the ABS even kicking in. The things are amazing. They will last twice as long as duratracs and will outperform them on ice. Only time you will see better performance from the GY's is in mud or really deep heavy snow. The duratracs in winter are sooooo overrated. Their ice traction is nothing to be happy about. People who say otherwise... I have no idea what they are comparing them to.

Also, I got 10 ply tires instead of P rated and they are still very smooth. The benefit is you can drive over damn near anything without worrying about a blow out or puncture.

 

If you don't go MS'2 go with the AT 2's, a little more aggressive for snow and still a great highway tire from Michelin. I would also consider the Cooper AT3's, good highway/trail tire and still light weight. I would not even consider the other tires you listed.

 

^^^ I would alos pick the AT2 .. but if you absolutely never see anything but pavement go with the MS2.

 

Get the P metric LTX AT2 in OEM size and call it good,why would you need a DURATRAC tire load range C in a Daily driver and light trails? Unless you like to have hemoroids the ride will tear your ass and lower back to shit . Chrome don't get you home, Michelins will.

 

I just replaced my factory bfgoodridge tires to Michelin LTX M/S 2 and totally love them. I couldnt be happier. Bought them at Americas tire for 770 out the door and also got a $100 rebate visa card. so final cost $670. I didnt buy their repair certificate

 

Thanks guys,

Yes the truck really doesn't see any offroad (for now). I keep a dedicated trail rig to destroy offroad because I just can't justify doing it to my daily driver. I like to get pretty stupid and I don't think this Tacoma would hold up to it without LOTS of money being thrown at it.

I think I'm going to stick with the P rated M/S2. It looks like that one falls under TireRack's free road hazard warranty which I've had to use before and it's a fairly straightforward and cheap (free) process to go through.

 

Have you considered Cooper A/TW's, OP?

http://us.coopertire.com/Tires/Sport-Utility/Discoverer-A-TW.aspx

 

I think you'll be very satisfied with the LTX M/S2's! I certainly am!

 

No, I actually hadn't looked at them until now. They look like they'd be good in snow with the amount of siping they have.

 

I had LTX MS2s on mine and they were very good tired and lasted forever. I now have Cooper Discoverer AT3s and really like them as well.

 

I have heard that the Duratracs when they start to wear, start to break free easily in slippery conditions.
Get the LTX MS/2 they are great and will make you very happy.

 

@teamhypoxia rocks the shit out of the A/T2s

 

The only time they don't have great traction is when they're in the air

 

I run MS2's in summer and have a set of Cooper AT/W for winter, or whenever I think I may want an AT tire (hunting trips). Both MS2 and ATW are great tires. MS2's will perform well enough in winter though if you want the absolute best highway tire.

 

Well, I'm going to be the lone voice to vote for Duratracs. I had them on a Jeep Wrangler and the ride quality was great. As good as the stock GY tires. In my opinion the Duratracs look better. The side lugs give them an aggressive stance. Now, that said, I have not seen them on a Tacoma nor do I know how they ride/handle but I plan to try them when my tires need replacing.