So the 2006Prius I'm getting in June has: Bridgestone 185/65R15 88H "Ecopies" Also a 1-season old set of Nokian Hakkapeliitta-RS 185/65 R15 92R XL (My dad said these were the best set of snow tires available). I don't need the snows at this point, obviously, but I'm keeping them in case I move back to a colder climate. But - as for the main tires - are they any good? I think they're in good condition and I know rotations and alignments have been done when scheduled. Thanks! PS. And yes all the hubcaps have wheel locks.
Ecopia? I have no experience w/them (nor have been browsing around for tires lately) but there several models of Ecopias at Bridgestone Ecopia Tires | Low Rolling Resistance Tires. F8L has been compiling a list of low rolling resistance tires at http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-...resistant-replacement-tires-current-list.html.
I have had bridgestone ecopia ep422 now for last 11000 miles and can say I would recommend them to anyone that asks. The are a much smoother ride and quieter than oem tires. I noticed an increase in mpg's as well.
Tires: a ring-shaped covering made out of synthetic rubber, natural rubber, wire, and fabric that fits around a wheel rim to protect it and enable better vehicle performance by providing a flexible cushion that absorbs shock while keeping the wheel in close contact with the ground. There, now you know something about then.
Well, it may be obvious to you, but not so obvious to others, LOL. Where in the US (roughly) do you live? The concensus these days is even if you're not getting a lot of snow, snow tires are a big plus for traction, whenever ambient temperatures go below 5 degrees Centigrade. Is that roughly 40 degrees Fahrenheit? Also, the Bridgestone Ecopias are a good line of tires, known for LRR. Not sure what specific Ecopia you're talking about, if it's EP20, and likely any of the others, they're "ok" when new in snow, but as soon as tread diminishes, say below 6/32" remaining tread depth, they're not good at all.
I have a new set of Ecopia EP 100s that I like so far... not too much experience with them yet. My mileage has been good with them already even though I haven't broken them in, although it's also warmed up a bit lately. I have a set of blizzaks for the winter, which I don't think are low rolling resistance, but they sure get me through the snow.
Check out my thread on LRR Tires if you want to research the best tire for your needs. If you want simplified recommendations without considering the need for snow traction: Ecopia EP100 or EP422 Michelin Energy Saver A/S Yokohama dB Super E-Spec Goodyear Fuel Saver All the above are very fuel efficient and are given high ratings by Prius Chat members.
Thanks everyone. I'll be in the Northeast for the summer and then CA until next summer, So I won't need snows. But I might be going back to school in the northeast in which case I'll need 'em for the winter. Just wanted to make sure these Ecopias were a good tire and it seems like they are
The 422s are all season so if you end up in some snow you won't need to go tire shopping again. The 100s are summer only. If you end up somewhere with serious snow and/or cold then I'd consider a proper winter tire for winter driving.
