I got the stock 265/70R17 Michelin A/T2 tires installed yesterday. I drove about 60 miles today and thought I'd post my initial impressions:

Looks: The tread is a bit narrower than the stock rugged trails. The open lugs on the corners make it overall about the same width, but the contact patch is probably 1/4" narrower. The tires look a bit narrow when approaching the truck from the rear. The tread is deep, the spec is 17/32". This is more than the BFG AT KO tires in this size (16/32"). I do like the black side walls.

Ride: The tread blocks are noticibly pliable when you push on them with your finger. This translates harshness of the ride on city streets being muted by the soft tread on these tires. The ride comfort is vastly improved from the rugged trails, and I have them set at the same air pressure. On the flip side there is quite a bit of tread squirm right now. The truck definately floats when I initially turn the wheel before the tires catch up to the steering input. I'm thinking/hoping the squirm feels worse initially because of the mold release and storage chemicals that are still on the tread. I'll probably have 700 miles on them by the end of next week, so I'll see if it improves. It's still more planted than my Bronco with 35" xterrains on it.

Noise: There is no road noise. I noticed that the engine sounded louder cruising down the highway, which makes me think the new Michelins are quieter than the stock tires were.

I had originally considered going with a set of 285/70R17 tires. Due in part to the never ending backorder on the Bridgestone Revo 2 and Firestone Destination A/T I decided to just go with the stock size Michelin A/T2 tires.

 

I was looking at those at Costco today. If Michelin would just release a 285-75-17 or a 315 in an E-rating,they'd own the market.

 

Hi BroncoAZ

Your first impression is spot on regarding the Michelin AT/2 tires. I have them on each of my vehicles and have been pleased with their overall performance. The squirm that you mention will improve substantially in 700 miles.

 

That's good to hear about the squirm. It was a bit concerning when I swerved the wheel back and forth rapidly a few times on a freeway off ramp.

I'll be hooking up my trailer in the next few weeks, so I'll get a good feel for how they handle the load.