Changing out the Falken tires for Michelin

We bought a 1794 LE a few weeks ago and overall we are very please with the truck. It actually exceeded our expectations in just about every measure.

But, we came from a Tundra with all season tires and this truck came with all terrain tires. I have noticed that these tires are more rugged, but they are also a bit louder and stiffer than the all season tires we had.

So after some research I ordered some new Michelin Defender LTX Platinum tires from Discount Tire. I'm supposed to have them installed tomorrow. They appear to be a new version of the Defender series, so I could only find limited reviews about them (all good). I'm going on faith mostly, I guess.

I realize this might be sacrilege to some folks, but I have absolutely no desire or plans to do anything more than traverse a dirt or gravel road on rare occasions, so the Falkens are just overkill for me. I'd prefer the characteristics of all season tires over all terrain.

I'm just putting this out there in the ether in case anyone else either has experience with the tires or may be looking for my experience with them later.

 

Please report about the ride with the new Michelins.

 

Yes, please share. Big Defender fan for 20 yrs. Curious about noise, snow/ice traction and ultimately longevity. We won’t know these last two for a bit. My Defenders have always been good for 70K or more. Thx

 

My truck is a 1794 TRD but not LE, you lucky duck! Anyway the wheels and tires are the same except for the logo on the center cap. I swapped to TRD Pro wheels which are 285/65/18 for looks and slightly better ride. I can hear the tires a little now that I turned off the mic'ed in engine noise...nothing terrible but imagine the Michelins are going to be quieter but as a 60 series on 20's not much better ride...of course that Fox suspension will help...congrats!

 

I think your observations are spot on!

We were lucky to find an LE a few hours away from us. It is a treat to have, to be sure!

 

Had the new Michelins installed today. I thought the wheel well looked quite colorful and well done, so I had to snap a picture. LOL

So, compared to the Falkens the Michelins are certainly quieter. I turned off the mic'd up exhaust noise (like many others) and it is nearly imperceivable to hear road noise now. Love that.

As for the ride, I would say it is slightly softer, but certainly not a huge difference. I do not hear the "thud" from the tires when I go over a rough patch on the highway like I did before. The tires seem to absorb those rather well.

In the end, I have no regrets with swapping out the tires. I have the Falkens listed on Market Place so I can recoup most of my costs (as the Falkens are basically new). I prefer a more comfortable ride as opposed to a "rugged" ride and I think this is as much as I can expect. My wife and I are very pleased with the truck and the ride and comfort it offers. The utility is a welcome bonus! LOL

 

Good move might even pick up incremental gas mileage along with ride. Some Tundras come with those in a 265/70/18.