When you’re looking to buy new tires for your truck or SUV, the choices can be overwhelming. You’ve probably come across the General Grabber HTS60 and the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2. Both are popular options, but which one is right for your specific needs? This article dives into the details to help you decide.
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is generally better for wet and dry conditions, offering superior traction and comfort, while the General Grabber HTS60 provides a good balance of performance and durability, especially if you occasionally go off-road.
In this article, we’ll compare the General Grabber HTS60 and the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 in terms of their key features, performance in various conditions, comfort, and treadwear, and help you decide which tire is the best fit for your driving needs.
General Grabber HTS 60
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.5 of 10
Wet Weather
8.8 of 10
Winter Weather
7.8 of 10
All Terrain
8.1 of 10
Tread Wear
8.6 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 680
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 65,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 8.3 of 10
Mud Grip: 7.8 of 10
Sand Grip: 8.1 of 10
Rock Grip: 8.3 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.4 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The General Grabber HTS60 is designed for drivers seeking a versatile, reliable, and comfortable tire for their trucks and SUVs. This all-season tire provides a blend of on-road comfort and light off-road capability, making it an ideal choice for those who demand a smooth ride while occasionally venturing off the beaten path. Whether you’re navigating urban streets or tackling a gravel road, the Grabber HTS60 delivers a dependable performance.
Key Features
The General Grabber HTS60 is a solid all-season tire for trucks and SUVs, offering a balance of comfort, durability, and performance. Its design caters to drivers who require a reliable tire for both daily commuting and occasional off-road adventures. With a focus on delivering a quiet and comfortable ride, the Grabber HTS60 ensures you stay confident and secure on the road.
- All-Season Versatility: The Grabber HTS60 offers reliable traction in various weather conditions, thanks to its unique tread compound and pattern. It performs well on dry, wet, and lightly snowy roads, providing peace of mind throughout the year.
- Comfort and Quiet Ride: This tire is engineered to reduce road noise and vibrations, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride. Its cushioned tread blocks help absorb bumps and irregularities, enhancing overall driving comfort.
- Durability and Long Tread Life: With a robust construction and durable materials, the Grabber HTS60 is built to last. It features DuraGen Technology, which provides long-lasting tread life and resistance to cuts and chips.
- Enhanced Wet Performance: The tire’s circumferential grooves efficiently channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving wet traction.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (8.8)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8
- Wet Traction: 8.8
The Grabber HTS60 performs well in wet conditions. It has a solid grip and effectively resists hydroplaning, making you feel safe even when the roads are slick.
Dry Performance (9.1)
- Corner Stability: 8.9
- Dry Traction: 9.3
- Steering Response: 9.0
On dry roads, the Grabber HTS60 shows its strengths. With excellent dry traction and responsive steering, driving feels secure and predictable.
Winter/Snow Performance (7.8)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.4
- Deep Snow Traction: 7.8
- Ice Traction: 7.3
The tire handles light snow adequately but struggles more with deep snow and icy conditions. It’s like having winter boots that are good for light snow but not the best for harsh winter weather.
Comfort (8.7)
- Ride Quality: 8.7
- Noise: 8.7
This tire is designed for a comfortable ride with reduced noise levels. It’s built to smooth out bumps and keep things quiet, making your drive more pleasant.
Treadwear (8.7)
The Grabber HTS60 is built for longevity, with a treadwear rating that ensures it will serve you well over time.
Pros
- Good wet performance with effective hydroplaning resistance
- Excellent dry traction and responsive steering
- Comfortable ride with minimal noise
Cons
- Mediocre performance in deep snow and on ice
Michelin Defender LTX M/S2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.1 of 10
Wet Weather
9.3 of 10
Winter Weather
8.7 of 10
All Terrain
8.0 of 10
Tread Wear
9.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.7 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.4 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 820
UTQG Traction Rating: B
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 8.4 of 10
Mud Grip: 7.8 of 10
Sand Grip: 7.8 of 10
Rock Grip: 8.2 of 10
Hydroplaning: 9.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.4 of 10
Cornering: 9.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.7 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.6 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.4 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.6 of 10
Road Noise: 9.3 of 10
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is engineered for drivers who need a tire that offers exceptional longevity, performance, and safety for their trucks and SUVs. This all-season tire is designed to deliver reliable traction in diverse weather conditions while providing a comfortable and quiet ride. Whether you’re driving on highways, city streets, or light off-road terrains, the Defender LTX M/S2 ensures you have the grip and stability you need.
Key Features
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is your reliable all-season tire for trucks and SUVs, combining durability, performance, and comfort. It’s perfect for drivers who demand long-lasting tread life and consistent performance in various weather conditions. This tire stands out for its ability to deliver a quiet and smooth ride, making it ideal for daily commuting and long road trips.
- All-Season Performance: The Defender LTX M/S2 features an advanced tread design and rubber compound that provide dependable traction in wet, dry, and light snowy conditions. This tire is built to perform year-round, giving you confidence no matter the weather.
- Comfort and Quiet Ride: Michelin’s Comfort Control Technology™ ensures a smooth and quiet ride by minimizing road noise and vibrations. This makes for a pleasant driving experience, even on long journeys.
- Durability and Longevity: Constructed with Michelin’s Evertread™ compound, this tire is designed to last longer, even in severe conditions. The Defender LTX M/S2 comes with an impressive 70,000-mile treadwear warranty, offering excellent value and peace of mind.
- Enhanced Wet Performance: The tire’s four wide circumferential grooves and optimized sipes effectively channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and enhancing wet traction.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance (9.4)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.4
- Wet Traction: 9.4
The Defender LTX M/S2 excels in wet conditions. Its superior hydroplaning resistance and wet traction ensure you remain stable and confident, even in heavy rain.
Dry Performance (9.6)
- Corner Stability: 9.6
- Dry Traction: 9.7
- Steering Response: 9.5
On dry roads, this tire shines with excellent corner stability, dry traction, and responsive steering. Driving feels precise and controlled, giving you the confidence to handle any situation.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.7)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.9
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.8
- Ice Traction: 8.5
The Defender LTX M/S2 performs admirably in light snow and decent in deep snow and ice. Think of it as having winter boots that offer solid performance in most winter conditions.
Comfort (9.4)
- Ride Quality: 9.5
- Noise: 9.3
This tire offers a comfortable and quiet ride. Its design reduces noise levels and absorbs road imperfections, enhancing your driving experience.
Treadwear (9.5)
Built to last, the Defender LTX M/S2’s treadwear rating ensures it will serve you well over time, making it a cost-effective choice for the long haul.
Pros
- Outstanding wet performance with superior hydroplaning resistance
- Excellent dry traction and corner stability
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Exceptional tread life
Cons
- Performance in deep snow and ice, while good, is not the highest compared to some specialized winter tires
Comparative Analysis
When choosing the right tire for your truck or SUV, the devil is in the details. Both the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 and the General Grabber HTS60 offer robust features for the discerning driver, but their strengths cater to slightly different driving preferences and priorities. Let’s break it down to help you decide which tire might be the best fit for your ride.
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 | General Grabber HTS60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 9.4 | 8.8 |
| Wet Traction | 9.4 | 8.8 |
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 takes the lead in wet conditions with a score of 9.4, compared to the General Grabber HTS60’s 8.8. This higher score means the Michelin offers better traction and hydroplaning resistance, making it more suitable for areas prone to heavy rains or those who prioritize safety and control in wet environments.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 | General Grabber HTS60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.6 | 8.9 |
| Dry Traction | 9.7 | 9.3 |
| Steering Response | 9.5 | 9.0 |
Both tires perform admirably on dry roads, but the Michelin edges out slightly with a score of 9.6 against the General’s 8.9. The Michelin offers sharper corner stability and steering response, ideal for those who enjoy a spirited drive. If you find joy in taking curves with confidence and need a tire that keeps up with aggressive steering, Michelin might be your go-to.
Comfort and Noise
| Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 | General Grabber HTS60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 9.5 | 8.7 |
| Noise | 9.3 | 8.7 |
On the comfort front, both tires offer a pleasant driving experience, but the Michelin’s higher scores in ride quality and noise control provide a slightly better environment for long drives. If you spend significant time in your vehicle and prefer a tranquil journey, the Michelin has a slight advantage.
Treadwear and Durability
| Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 | General Grabber HTS60 | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 9.5 | 8.7 |
When it comes to durability, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 outperforms the General Grabber HTS60 with a treadwear score of 9.5 compared to 8.7. This means the Michelin is likely to last longer, offering better value over time for those who drive extensively and want a tire that will stand the test of time.
Overall Recommendation
- Choose Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 if: You prioritize top-notch performance in both wet and dry conditions, and comfort and noise levels are crucial for your regular driving experience. This tire is ideal for drivers in rainy climates or those who love an engaging driving experience without sacrificing safety.
- Opt for General Grabber HTS60 if: You’re looking for a reliable all-rounder that offers good performance and durability at a potentially lower price point. This tire suits drivers who face varied weather conditions and need a dependable tire for both on-road and light off-road adventures.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the General Grabber HTS60 and the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 hold their ground as top contenders, the tire market is bustling with alternatives that might better align with specific needs or budgets. Let’s explore a few other players in the Highway All-Season Truck tire category and see how they stack up.
Continental TerrainContact H/T
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 8.3 (Dirt: 8.5, Sand: 8.2, Mud: 8.0, Rock: 8.4)
- Wet: 9.2 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1, Wet Traction: 9.2)
- Dry: 9.3 (Corner Stability: 9.3, Dry Traction: 9.4, Steering Response: 9.2)
- Winter/Snow: 8.2 (Light Snow Traction: 8.7, Deep Snow Traction: 8.2, Ice Traction: 7.9)
- Comfort: 9.1 (Ride Quality: 9.1, Noise: 9.1)
- Treadwear: 9.0
Pros:
- Excellent performance in wet conditions and dry traction.
- High comfort ratings for a smooth and quiet ride.
Cons:
- Lower performance in deep snow and on ice compared to top competitors.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers who need reliable wet and dry performance with a comfortable ride, but may need to consider other options for heavy winter conditions.
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 8.0 (Dirt: 8.2, Sand: 8.0, Mud: 7.8, Rock: 8.0)
- Wet: 9.3 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.3, Wet Traction: 9.3)
- Dry: 9.1 (Corner Stability: 9.0, Dry Traction: 9.2, Steering Response: 9.1)
- Winter/Snow: 7.5 (Light Snow Traction: 8.0, Deep Snow Traction: 7.5, Ice Traction: 7.0)
- Comfort: 9.4 (Ride Quality: 9.4, Noise: 9.4)
- Treadwear: 9.4
Pros:
- Superior comfort and noise reduction.
- High treadwear rating for long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- Lower performance in winter conditions, especially on ice.
Ideal Usage: Best for drivers who prioritize comfort and long tread life, ideal for long highway drives in mostly mild climates.
Firestone Destination LE3
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 8.1 (Dirt: 8.5, Sand: 8.0, Mud: 7.7, Rock: 8.1)
- Wet: 8.9 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.9, Wet Traction: 9.0)
- Dry: 9.3 (Corner Stability: 9.1, Dry Traction: 9.4, Steering Response: 9.2)
- Winter/Snow: 8.0 (Light Snow Traction: 8.5, Deep Snow Traction: 7.9, Ice Traction: 7.5)
- Comfort: 9.1 (Ride Quality: 9.1, Noise: 9.0)
- Treadwear: 8.7
Pros:
- Good dry traction and corner stability.
- Comfortable ride with minimal noise.
Cons:
- Average performance in winter conditions and treadwear not as high as top competitors.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for those looking for a balance between performance and comfort, ideal for mixed driving conditions but with a focus on mild climates.
Each of these alternatives offers a unique set of features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Balanced Value and Performance: The Continental TerrainContact H/T strikes a good balance, offering solid performance without the premium price tag. It’s ideal for those who drive in varying conditions but don’t want to splurge on the top-tier options.
- For Comfort on Long Drives: The Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus shines in providing a comfortable ride, making it perfect for families or those who frequently embark on road trips. Its performance is reliable, though the slightly lower durability could be a concern for high-mileage drivers.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: The Firestone Destination LE3 presents a viable option for those who need to adhere to stricter budgets. While it doesn’t offer the best performance metrics, it maintains a respectable level of quality for its price range.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- General Product Page
- Michelin Product Page
- Highway All-Season Truck Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the General Grabber HTS60 and the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 depends largely on your driving conditions and priorities. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 excels in wet and dry performance, comfort, and treadwear, making it a top choice for those who drive extensively in varied weather conditions and prioritize a smooth, quiet ride. It’s particularly suited for drivers in rainy climates or those who demand high performance and longevity from their tires.
On the other hand, the General Grabber HTS60 offers solid all-around performance with good durability and off-road capability. It’s a great choice if you need a dependable tire for both daily commuting and occasional light off-road adventures. While it doesn’t quite match the Michelin in wet performance and comfort, it provides excellent value for drivers who need a versatile and durable tire at a potentially lower cost.
Good luck and happy motoring.
