I've been using the reviews, surveys, and tests at tirerack mostly the narrow my choices.
I have the 18" wonders on my '04, and looking to stay with stock sizes.
The Pilots are great tires, but wear like crazy. And are expensive.
I see many have chosen the BFG KDW's. I think BFG tires are among the most underrated tires. Always seem to be in the background, but make very good tires for the price.
But I keep falling back on the Potenza 960AS. The reviews are great, and the test results are super. PLUS, they have a 400 treadwear rating as well as high marks for low noise and ride. It seems to have everything for the price. Not that cheap, but less than the Michs. at about double the tread life. But if I was to go cheap would probably settle on the Avons or BFG.
Summer tires work for me and my area. Any experiences welcome.

 

What do you want?

performance or value? you gotta pay to play

 

I agree, there are always trade-offs, but in the perfromance arena the 960AS seems to fulfill the requirements for decent tire life, ride/noise quality nicely for just under the 200 dollar mark. At least if I can believe the tire tests I've read.
I want mostly a good everyday tire, that will also give some good results on mountain runs now and then.