You’ve heard whispers about the Laufenn S FIT AS, rumored to be the Swiss Army knife of tires: good in the rain, solid on a sunny day, and not too shabby when a bit of snow falls. But is it really the all-season champion you need, or just another tire in the sea of options?
The Laufenn S FIT AS finds itself in a tough spot when stacked against leading competition. It delivers a performance that is generally on par in dry conditions but tends to fall short in wet weather and winter scenarios.
In this article, we’ll take a no-nonsense look at the Laufenn S FIT AS, diving into its performance across various conditions, comparing it with the big guns in the tire world, and helping you figure out if this tire is the right fit for your ride.
Laufenn S FIT AS
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
7.9 of 10
Wet Weather
7.8 of 10
Winter Weather
6.4 of 10
Tread Wear
8.1 of 10
Dry Weather
8.7 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.3 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 500
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 45,000 miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 7.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 7.8 of 10
Cornering: 8.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.9 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.7 of 10
Mild Snow Grip:6.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 6.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.0 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.4 of 10
Road Noise: 8.1 of 10
When we talk about tires, we’re really talking about peace of mind, right? Knowing you can count on your tires in a sudden downpour or an unexpected dry spell is what it’s all about. Here’s how the Laufenn S FIT AS fares:
Performance Overview
- Wet Roads: It’s got a wet rating of 7.8, which is honest but not top-of-the-line. Hydroplaning? It’s got resistance, but if the skies really open up, these tires will have you driving a bit more cautiously.
- Dry Roads: Here’s where it shines a bit brighter. With an 8.7 in dry conditions, the Laufenn is more at home when things are bone dry, offering solid cornering and a steady ride.
- Winter Conditions: Winter’s a bit of a stretch. A 6.4 rating means light snow won’t throw it off too much, but any talk of ice and deeper snow? You’re better off with a dedicated winter tire.
- Riding Comfort: Scoring an 8.3, it’s fair to say your ride will be pretty smooth, but not whisper-quiet. It’s like having a tire that’s good at keeping secrets, but sometimes, you’ll hear the whispers.
- Tread Life: With an 8.1, expect a decent run before you need to think about replacements. It’s not the marathon runner of tires, but it’s not sprinting to the finish line too quickly either.
Compared to the Competition
Now, throwing it in the ring with the heavyweights, how does it hold up? Without getting into the weeds, let’s just say it’s in the fight but not necessarily landing knockout punches. It’s like that reliable middleweight boxer; it won’t always dazzle you with footwork or speed, but it’s not going down without a scrap.
Pros
- Decent champ on dry roads
- Comfortable enough for most rides
- Won’t bail on you immediately (tread life’s okay)
Cons
- Wet and wintry weather could be a bit of a challenge
- Noise could use a little shushing
the Bottom Line
The Laufenn S FIT AS is like that reliable friend who’s always down for an adventure, provided it’s not pouring or freezing outside. It’s the tire for the driver who wants a decent all-rounder without breaking the bank. You’re getting a tire that handles most of what the road throws at it, with a few caveats when the weather decides to throw a curveball.
Thinking of slapping a set of these on your ride? They’re a solid choice for keeping things steady on the road, as long as you’re not expecting them to perform miracles when Mother Nature is in a mood. In the end, the Laufenn S FIT AS proves that sometimes, being reliably good is enough to keep the ride smooth and the driver happy.
Laufenn S FIT AS Problems
When it comes to tires, we all want the superhero kind—strong, reliable, and ready for any weather. But even superheroes have their kryptonite. Let’s talk about the Laufenn S FIT AS and some of the speed bumps you might hit along the way.
Road Noise
Ever had that one friend who just can’t keep it down? Well, the Laufenn S FIT AS can be that friend, especially on highways. It’s not the loudest in the room, but it’s definitely not whispering. At higher speeds, you might find the road noise more noticeable than you’d like, kind of like a constant background chatter during your drive.
Wet Weather
Imagine you’re dancing, but instead of a dance floor, it’s a rainy road, and your shoes… well, they’re not exactly slip-resistant. This tire’s performance on wet surfaces might have you feeling a bit like that. With a wet traction rating that doesn’t quite hit the mark, driving in heavy rain requires a bit more caution. It’s like the tire’s saying, “I can handle a little drizzle, but let’s not get carried away.”
Winter Weather
Heading into winter with the Laufenn S FIT AS is a bit like wearing a light jacket when you needed a heavy coat. It’ll manage fine in a light snow flurry, but when it comes to ice and the deeper snow, it’s not quite the warm hug you were hoping for. If you’re living where winters are more ‘Frozen’ than ‘Mild Winter Day’, these might not be the magic slippers you need.
Tread Life
While no tire lasts forever, the Laufenn S FIT AS might have you back for a new set sooner than you’d hoped. It’s like that one gym buddy who starts with a burst of energy but tires out before the workout is over. The tread life is decent, but don’t expect it to go the extra, extra mile without showing some wear and tear.
Comfort
On the comfort front, it’s mostly good news. Think of it as riding in a decently cushioned car—smooth enough for daily drives but you might feel those bumps on rougher roads. It’s like your car is wearing a comfy pair of sneakers, good for a jog but maybe not the best for a rocky trail hike.
Summary
Now, before you think it’s all doom and gloom, remember, no tire is perfect. The Laufenn S FIT AS has its perks, especially if you’re cruising on dry roads and looking for a tire that won’t make your wallet cry. It’s about balancing what you need with what you’re willing to work around. Like choosing a travel buddy, you want one that’s up for most adventures, even if they’re not the best at reading maps in the rain.
Laufenn S FIT AS Alternatives
So, you’re eyeing the Laufenn S FIT AS but wonder if there’s something else out there that might better meet your rubber-to-the-road needs? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got the lowdown on how some of the leading contenders stack up against our main character today.
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
First in the lineup of alternatives is the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4. This one’s the athlete of the group—ready to tackle just about any condition with a bit of French flair.
- Wet Roads: Michelin says, “Hold my wine,” with superior wet traction that makes the Laufenn look a bit soggy in comparison.
- Dry Performance: On dry land, the Michelin is just as impressive, offering cornering and handling that might just put a smile on your face.
- Chilling in Winter: It’s a bit more adept at handling light snow than the Laufenn, but let’s just say neither of them is winning any ice marathons.
- Ride Quality: Here, Michelin plays a smooth tune, offering a ride that’s a touch more refined, but still, it’s no luxury sedan.
- Tire Longevity: Expect to get a good run out of these, potentially edging out the Laufenn in the marathon for durability.
Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
Next we have the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus. Think of this one as the well-rounded honor student who’s good at almost everything.
- Wet Grip: It edges out the Laufenn with confidence, making rainy days less of a stress test.
- Dry Performance: On par with the Laufenn, but with a bit of extra pep in its step for those sunny day jaunts.
- Winter Skills: Again, a step ahead in light snow, though still not a substitute for a true winter tire.
- Comfort: It’s got a slight edge in making your ride smoother and quieter, like a nice pair of noise-canceling headphones for your car.
- Tire Life: Here, the Continental shows it’s in for the long haul, likely giving you more bang for your buck over time.
Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
Finally, let’s talk about the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+. It’s like the Laufenn S FIT AS’s more outgoing cousin who loves both the spotlight and the rainy season a bit more passionately.
- Wet Performance: It’s on par with the Laufenn when it comes to playing nice with puddles, but it’s got that extra oomph in handling and hydroplaning resistance that says, “Rain? What rain?”
- Dry Roads: Here, it’s neck and neck with the Laufenn, but the Potenza brings just a tad more stability and grip to the table, making those dry summer drives a breeze.
- Winter Wonderland?: This is where the Potenza really starts to sing, offering better traction in the snow. It’s not exactly a snow tire, but it’s like having winter boots that are just as comfortable on ice as they are on clear paths.
- Comfort and Noise: It’s pretty much a tie here. The Potenza is like that friend who’s comfortable to hang out with, neither too loud nor too quiet.
- Tread Life: This is where the Bridgestone flexes a bit, likely to keep you on the road longer without a pit stop for new tires.
Each of these alternatives to the Laufenn S FIT AS has its own set of superpowers, from conquering wet roads with ease to offering a quieter, more comfortable ride. It’s like picking your favorite superhero—some might prefer the strength and endurance Bridgestone, the versatility of Michelin, or the all-around capabilities of Continental.
Choosing the right tire is about matching your specific needs and driving conditions with the tire’s strengths. So whether you stick with the Laufenn S FIT AS or opt for one of its stellar alternatives, you’re in the driver’s seat, ready to roll with confidence.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
After putting the Laufenn S FIT AS under the microscope, it’s clear this tire has its moments. On dry roads, it struts its stuff, offering reliable handling and stability that’ll have you nodding in approval. Yet, when the skies darken and the rain starts to pour, it seems to get a bit shy, not holding up as bravely as we’d hoped. And let’s not even start on snow and ice; here, it’s more of a wallflower than a dance floor king.
But here’s the deal: no tire is perfect. The Laufenn S FIT AS makes a strong case for itself as a budget-friendly option for drivers who mainly stick to dry and mildly wet conditions. It’s not the tire that’ll take you up a snowy mountain with confidence, but it’ll do the job for your everyday commute, especially when the budget is tight. Comparing it to the category leaders, it’s fair to say it’s on par in some areas but finds itself playing catch-up when weather conditions turn challenging.
So, if you’re after a tire that offers solid dry performance without draining your wallet, the Laufenn S FIT AS might just be your match. Just keep an eye on the forecast and consider your climate before making the final call. Whether it leads the pack or follows, it promises to keep you rolling through many journeys.
Good luck and happy motoring.
