The Conti ProContact's don't get great ratings on TireRack (7) and run $130/tire there. For $3 less per tire you could get General Exclaim UHP rated 8.3. The Exclaims are performance tires and won't do well in snow but that shouldn't be an issue in Tennessee.
I've read the ratings on TireRack and a few other sites regarding the Continentals. Most of the not-so-positive ratings seem to revolve around the average handling issues during winter weather. It's winter here today as well--I think it's about 25 degrees out now (mid-day), but no snow--and like most years, probably won't see any to speak of. I've had Eagle GTs in the past, so I looked at them as well and a few others...seems about the same in a lot of (less subjective) categories, albeit at a higher price. My driving style is average, considering a split between city/hwy driving at/near posted speed limits. I don't drive "hard", and frankly the Dunlops have performed reasonably well for me. But, they are a more expensive tire in our market than other similarly rated tires.
TireRack doesn't offer a Road Hazard warranty on this tire, and after reviewing their RH policy, I'm not enthused about getting one from them. You can review their policy/prices, etc. Generally, I like the idea of getting it locally and having it serviced locally. I've also done a bit of review on "road force balancing"--a very interesting process, if/when done correctly. I found one site that had a review written by one of the 4 engineers who claims to have written some of the software used on that Hunter machine. I'm guessing he's correct, because if he's blowing smoke, he's blowing it in the right direction! Tire Barn offers this service.
After paying Tire Rack's price, shipping, and the local dealer's cost for mounting/balancing, etc., the only thing I'd be saving is the cost of the RH warranty that they don't offer, so not much of a bargain buying from them.
TR's site is great for product reviews, though--I've learned a ton just by studying for the last couple of weeks.
The General you describe also doesn't seem to perform well in inclement weather--just like so many tires in this overall category.
I think I remember reading somewhere else on this site where someone suggested there should be a place to go and actually "try out" tires before making the purchase...anyone want to open such a business?? (And take on that liability and cost)? You'd be everyone's friend, except your banker!
Dan :>)
PS: I guess I should make one other point, which probably refutes something I wrote earlier. I recognize how business works, including how tires are selected by a manufacturer for one of their auto products. The company would put out a bid spec, and offers would come in from qualified manufacturers that can build new/offer existing product that meet the specs, and at a certain price point based on expected sales in a given period of time. With that in mind, I suppose I shouldn't put a lot of emphasis on Dunlop vs. some other potential make considering they were selected for use on the Gennys. They were most likely the lowest bidder! If there were some other more pressing stat, why are Hankook Optimos used on the Equus? (They don't make a size for the Gen's....yet).
