Report: D40 M2s on '86 5KCSTQ

[Audial <Audial@aol.com>]

This afternoon I had a new set of Dunlop D40M2s installed on my car.  Aside
from the fact that the right rear tire had to be dismounted, reinstalled and
rebalanced because the technician didn't notice that the rotation direction
was backward, everything went smoothly with my Fuchs 7x15 rims.

My report is biased because the car had been riding on:

3 badly worn Goodyear Eagle GT+4s and 1 "performance" rear tire that I am too
embarrassed to name.

After about 30 miles of driving, barely enough to scrub them in, in the cold
and dry weather of Chicago, I can report that:

1) The D40M2s absorb small impacts well and are much quieter in this area than
the (admittedly heinous) tires I had before.

2) Very importantly, even with full tread, the turn-in is sharp and
linear...move the wheel 1/32nd, and you get response.  I could place the car
very accurately with these tires.

3) Through some moderately fast curves on Lake Shore Drive, I felt good
feedback through the steering, as much grip as I asked for, and no noise.

4) Rolling noise was low on fresh pavement, and braking was excellent on dry
ground.

Once I get some more miles on these tires I will have a more comprehensive
report.  I want to test them in a driving rain and some more demanding
situations before I pronounce judgment, but as of now I am very pleased with
these tires.  

Best Wishes,
Alex