6:20 pm, February 20, 2010
It might have something to do with my days as a product tester on Auto Express, but I like nothing better than a new set of rubber!
My Focus ST has chomped through a set of Continetals in just 12,000 miles – something to do with the wife’s driving one would imagine – but with the wear bars nearly reached it was time to find some replacements.
After some shopping around – and a discounted quote for £215 for a pair of Michelins – I opted for a set of Avon ZZ3s. These not only look pretty special, but come with a sensible price tag too.
At just £240 for a set of four they’re nearly half the price of the discounted Michelins! They arrived a couple of weeks ago and I’ve just had a chance to get them fitted.
DETAILS
The Avon ZZ3’s are the manufacturer’s ultra-high performance tyre and have been designed for those that need wet and dry road-holding with predictable handling.
And the really clever bit is the rather oddly-named rim flange – this isn’t as dodgy as it sounds, but is in fact a rubber lip that protrudes from the rim protecting alloys from kerbing. Particularly handy, again, for the wife.
The tyres come in sizes from 16-inch to 19-inch and speed ratings W and Y. They’ve been made with European roads in mind so should cope with the rigours of our potholed streets.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I took the Focus for a long spin with the new tyres and although a little louder than the outgoing set they’re particularly grippy. Turn in to corners have a lot more feel and they feel lighter.
They cope very well in the wet too – adding a noticeable amount of grip on slippery roundabouts. Overall I’m very impressed and even like the snazzy design.
But the real plus point is that aforementioned price – for the money, the ZZ3s are an absolute bargain.
I’ll let you know how long the Avon ZZ3s last and any other thoughts as they bed in. In the meantime, to find a stockist call 01225 703101.
James
