Hi all,

I know a number of threads on tires have come up recently, but I had a slightly different question. I need a set of new tires (195/60R15) and was intrigued by the feedback/ratings for the Bridgestone Turanza LS-H/V series on tirerack. While checking on prices, I talked to a Costco guy that said the OE and manufacturer rec speed rating for the 850s was V (which I haven't been able to verify anywhere).

Of course I have no plans to go above 130mph (of the H rating), but he said the V had a stiffer sidewall which would wear out on the H with how the 850's suspensions are tuned. So I was wondering if anyone here could say something authoritative on the issue (clearly reading through the forum I see that many of you have been running on H rated tires, but is this bad practice?). Sorry if this is a dumb question.

So if the OE really is V and I should get Vs, that rules out the Turanzas since they don't come in my size at that rating (though I could perhaps try to acquire the Turanza ER30, which has a 195/65R15 V-rated OE for the BMW 3 series if getting the different size is workable). Would that mean I'm pretty much stuck with overpriced Michelins, suspect Pirellis, or the Continental CV95? Thanks for any help!

-Mike
'95 850 wagon (117k or so)