I need to get new tires. I am debating between the Sumitomo HTR H4 (400 A A 89H), the Yokohama Touring-S (580 A B 89S), Fuzion HRi (400 A A 91H) and Falken ZE-912 (480 A A 91H). I do not drive alot. I was leaning towards the Yokohama's but the Accord manual tells me I need to get 89H which means speed of 130 as opposed to the S speed of 112. Will I be ruining my ride if I by the Yokohama with this lower speed rating? Does it make a difference if I get the lower speed rating tires than the placard? I would rather have a higher traction rating if I could and they are both within my price range. Any help would be appreciated.

 

What do you mean better traction? A is better than B anyway...

You won't ruin your car by buying lower speed rating. Most of us don't drive over 112 anyway (if there's anyone watching). The CAR is capable of exceeding that, so the tire company's liability insurance says they shouldn't put the lower speed tires on that car. If YOU choose to drive over 112 & crash, they don't want a lawsuit.

Usually, tires with a higher speed rating are stiffer, & feel more responsive. It's not always about the speed, it's the mushy feeling that I don't like. Is THAT what you mean by "ruining your ride"?

 

The Fuzion's and Falken's have a higher load rating of 91, which will increase stiffness in the sidewall and overall tire response, downside is it's a little bit bumpier.

All the tire's listed have an A traction rating, but the 400 treadwear rating of the Sumitomo and Fuzion tire tells me they have a softer compound, meaning more grip. From personal experience, Fuzion's are sticky tires to a point that if you roll down your window you can hear them stick.