Considering the General AltiMAX RT45 but not sure if it’s the right tire for you? You’re in the right place. With so many tires to choose from, figuring out which one offers the best balance of performance and value can feel like solving a puzzle. This review will give you the straight facts about the AltiMAX RT45, helping you decide if it’s the perfect fit for your vehicle.
The General AltiMAX RT45 is on par with leading competitors in dry and wet performance, offering solid all-around capabilities but slightly underperforming in winter conditions.
In this article, we’ll explore the key features, performance metrics, and how the General AltiMAX RT45 stacks up against top competitors. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this tire meets your driving needs.
General AltiMAX RT45
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
7.8 of 10
Treadwear
8.8 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 600
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 75,000 Miles – H & T rated
6 Years / 65,000 Miles – V rated
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.4 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.8 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The General AltiMAX RT45 stands out as a reliable Grand Touring All-Season tire, designed to deliver consistent performance across various driving conditions. This tire is engineered to provide a balance of comfort, durability, and all-weather traction, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking dependable year-round performance.
General Tire has incorporated advanced technology into the AltiMAX RT45, focusing on enhancing both safety and comfort. The tire features an optimized tread pattern that improves traction in wet and dry conditions while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride. Additionally, the tread compound is designed to offer long-lasting performance, ensuring that the tire remains effective over its lifespan.
One of the key aspects of the AltiMAX RT45 is its versatility. While primarily designed for everyday driving, it also provides competent performance in light snow, making it a practical choice for drivers who experience mild winter conditions. The tire’s construction is aimed at delivering a comfortable ride without compromising on safety, providing peace of mind for drivers in various weather conditions.
WET WEATHER PERFORMANCE
The AltiMAX RT45 performs reliably in wet conditions:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: The tire’s tread design effectively channels water away, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining stability on wet roads.
- Wet Traction: Provides confident handling and braking in rainy conditions, ensuring safety even during sudden maneuvers.
DRY WEATHER PERFORMANCE
In dry conditions, the AltiMAX RT45 excels with:
- Stable Cornering: The tire offers solid cornering performance, maintaining steady road contact for safe and responsive driving.
- Strong Dry Traction: Exhibits impressive grip, particularly in tight turns and sudden maneuvers, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.
WINTER/SNOW PERFORMANCE
The AltiMAX RT45 provides adequate performance in mild winter conditions:
- Light Snow Traction: The tire’s tread design offers good traction on lightly snow-covered roads, making it suitable for areas with occasional snow.
- Deep Snow and Ice Traction: While not its strongest suit, the tire manages to offer reasonable performance in deeper snow and icy conditions, although it’s not recommended for severe winter weather.
RIDE COMFORT AND NOISE LEVEL
Balancing performance with comfort:
- Comfort Features: Designed to minimize road vibrations, the AltiMAX RT45 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces.
- Noise Control: The tire’s tread pattern is optimized to reduce road noise, providing a quieter driving experience.
TREAD WEAR AND LONGEVITY
Durability is a strong point of the AltiMAX RT45:
- Robust Composition: The tire is made with durable materials that promote long-lasting tread life, ensuring it remains effective over time.
- Efficient Tread Design: The tread is designed to wear evenly, which helps maintain consistent performance throughout the tire’s lifespan.
PROS
- Excellent wet and dry traction for a variety of driving conditions.
- Good light snow performance, making it versatile for mild winter climates.
- Quiet and comfortable ride, ideal for everyday driving.
- Durable construction that ensures long-lasting tread life.
CONS
- Performance in deep snow and ice is limited.
- Not the best option for severe winter conditions.
Value
The General AltiMAX RT45 offers excellent value for its price point, performing at a level comparable to higher-priced competitors. It strikes a balance between cost and performance, making it a smart choice for drivers looking for reliable all-season traction without breaking the bank.
The Verdict
The General AltiMAX RT45 is an impressive all-season tire that combines solid wet and dry performance with commendable comfort and durability. Its ability to handle light snow adds to its versatility, making it an ideal option for drivers who need a dependable tire for various driving conditions. While it may not be the best choice for extreme winter weather, it excels in everyday use, providing a quiet, comfortable, and safe driving experience.
General AltiMAX RT45 vs Competitors
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | Premium |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | Average |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | Average |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | Budget |
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.8 | 8.9 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.4 |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 9.1 | 9.2 | 9.1 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.2 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.7 | 8.9 | 8.8 |
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.4 | 7.8 | 7.3 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | 8.2 | 7.7 | 7.4 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 | 6.8 | 7.0 |
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.9 | 8.7 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.6 |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | 9.1 | 8.8 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.5 | 8.2 |
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.8 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.1 |
| Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 | 9.0 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 |
General AltiMAX RT45 Problems
The General AltiMAX RT45 is a solid contender in the Grand Touring All-Season tire category, offering good performance across a variety of conditions. However, like any tire, it has its potential drawbacks, which should be considered before making a purchase. Below are some common concerns and issues reported by users and reviewers.
Steering and Handling Precision
- Vague Steering Feel: While the General AltiMAX RT45 provides reliable handling, some users have noted that the steering can feel somewhat vague compared to more premium tires. This means that while the tire responds well to inputs, it may not offer the precise road feedback that driving enthusiasts might expect. This issue is more noticeable at higher speeds or when pushing the tire to its limits, where a slight delay in steering response can be felt.
- Performance at the Limit: When pushed to the extremes, such as in emergency maneuvers or aggressive driving, the RT45 can exhibit understeer or oversteer depending on the vehicle's drivetrain. This is not uncommon for tires in this category, but it is a factor to consider for those who may drive more aggressively.
Noise and Comfort Levels
- Increased Noise on Rough Surfaces: While the General AltiMAX RT45 is generally quiet on smooth roads, several reviewers have mentioned that it can become noisier on rougher surfaces. This is particularly noticeable on older, worn-out roads, where the tire may produce more road noise than some of its competitors.
- Firm Ride Over Uneven Pavement: Although the tire is designed for comfort, some users have reported a firmer ride when driving over uneven or bumpy pavement. This is a trade-off for its durable construction and may not be as noticeable for drivers on well-maintained roads.
Wet and Winter Performance
- Performance in Heavy Rain: The RT45 generally performs well in wet conditions, but some users have noted that it can lose traction more abruptly than higher-end models when pushed hard on wet roads. This may result in a less predictable handling experience during sudden stops or sharp turns in the rain.
- Limited Ice Traction: While the tire handles light snow adequately, its performance on icy roads is not as strong as that of specialized winter tires or some all-weather alternatives. Drivers in areas with frequent ice or heavy snowfall may want to consider a dedicated winter tire or an all-weather option.
Comparison to Alternatives
- Versus Premium Competitors: When compared to more expensive options, the General AltiMAX RT45 may lack some of the refined handling and lower noise levels found in premium tires. For drivers who prioritize a quiet, smooth ride, and precise handling, it may be worth exploring alternatives that offer these benefits, albeit at a higher cost.
- Price and Value Considerations: Despite these drawbacks, the RT45 remains a strong value proposition due to its competitive pricing and solid performance across most conditions. It's particularly appealing for drivers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly tire with good all-around capabilities.
The Bottom Line
The General AltiMAX RT45 is a well-rounded tire that offers good performance for its price, but it’s not without its limitations. Potential buyers should weigh these considerations based on their specific driving needs and conditions. For those who prioritize value and are looking for a dependable all-season tire, the RT45 remains a solid choice, though drivers seeking top-tier precision and comfort may want to explore higher-end alternatives.
General AltiMAX RT45 Alternatives
While the General AltiMAX RT45 is a dependable all-season tire that performs well across various conditions, you might be curious about other options that might better suit your specific needs. Here are three top alternatives, each offering unique strengths. We've also included a budget-conscious choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing too much performance.
Michelin CrossClimate 2
Overall Rating: The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is an outstanding all-season tire, known for its superior performance in both wet and dry conditions.
- Wet/Dry: This tire excels with a wet traction rating of 9.4 and a dry performance rating of 9.4, putting it slightly ahead of the General AltiMAX RT45. It provides exceptional grip and handling, making it one of the best in its class.
- Winter/Snow: The CrossClimate 2 also shines in winter conditions, with a light snow traction rating of 9.2 and deep snow traction rating of 8.8, making it a top performer for those who face regular winter weather.
- Comfort: It offers a smooth and quiet ride, with a comfort rating of 8.9, which is comparable to the AltiMAX RT45.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 9.1, it promises a longer lifespan, making it a solid investment for drivers who prioritize longevity.
Comparison: The Michelin CrossClimate 2 outperforms the General AltiMAX RT45 in wet and winter traction, making it an excellent choice for those seeking top-tier performance in diverse weather conditions.
Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3
Overall Rating: The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 is another strong contender in the all-season category, offering balanced performance across different conditions.
- Wet/Dry: With wet and dry ratings of 9.0 and 9.3 respectively, this tire provides reliable handling and traction, closely matching the performance of the AltiMAX RT45.
- Winter/Snow: The P7 AS Plus 3 handles winter conditions well, with a light snow traction rating of 8.2 and deep snow traction rating of 7.7. While slightly lower than the RT45, it’s still a solid performer for mild winter conditions.
- Comfort: This tire is known for its comfort, with a ride quality rating of 8.9, and it also scores well in noise reduction.
- Treadwear: The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 boasts a treadwear rating of 9.0, making it a durable choice for long-term use.
Comparison: The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 is on par with the General AltiMAX RT45 in most areas, offering a slight edge in dry traction and comfort, making it a great option for those seeking a comfortable and long-lasting tire.
Laufenn G FIT AS
Overall Rating: The Laufenn G FIT AS is a budget-friendly all-season tire that offers decent performance without breaking the bank.
- Wet/Dry: This tire performs admirably with a wet traction rating of 8.0 and a dry performance rating of 8.8. While it doesn’t quite match the high-end performance of the AltiMAX RT45, it’s still reliable for everyday driving.
- Winter/Snow: The G FIT AS handles light snow adequately, with a light snow traction rating of 8.0. However, it’s less effective in deep snow and ice, making it more suitable for mild winter conditions.
- Comfort: Offering a comfortable ride, this tire scores a ride quality rating of 8.5, which is slightly below the AltiMAX RT45.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 8.0, it’s a durable option at this price point, though it may not last as long as more premium alternatives.
Comparison: While the Laufenn G FIT AS doesn’t quite reach the performance levels of the General AltiMAX RT45, it offers a very competitive alternative at a lower price. It’s a great pick for those seeking solid performance without the higher cost.
Each of these alternatives provides distinct advantages depending on your driving needs and budget.
- The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is ideal for those who need excellent wet and winter performance.
- The Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 offers balanced performance with a slight edge in comfort and dry traction.
- The Laufenn G FIT AS provides reliable performance at a budget-friendly price.
Depending on what you prioritize—be it top performance, comfort, or value—these options are worth considering alongside the General AltiMAX RT45.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The General AltiMAX RT45 offers a solid blend of performance, comfort, and durability. It stands out with its strong dry and wet traction, responsive handling, and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for everyday driving. However, it does show some limitations in winter conditions, particularly on ice, where it lags slightly behind some of the top performers.
Overall, the General AltiMAX RT45 is a well-rounded tire that competes well with the leaders in most categories, though it may not be the best choice for drivers who frequently face harsh winter weather. For those seeking a reliable all-season tire with great value, the AltiMAX RT45 is a strong contender.
Good luck and happy motoring.
