What are the pros and cons of Michelin PS4S tires?
3 Answers
Michelin PS4S tires have the advantages of precise steering and outstanding braking performance. The disadvantage is that they are not wear-resistant. The specific introduction is as follows: Advantages: Precise steering: The hybrid material cover layer composed of lightweight and high-strength aramid and nylon composite allows this tire to better transmit torque, with higher cornering tracking performance, and can instantly respond to the driver's instructions, making steering precise and handling easy. Outstanding braking performance: The dual tread compound technology is applied, in which the outer side adopts a new composite elastomer formula to enhance dry performance, while the inner side adds a functional elastomer formula, making the braking performance outstanding. Disadvantages: Michelin tires are not as wear-resistant as other brand tires, and the tire price is the most expensive brand among all tire brands.
Last month I just fitted my hot hatch with PS4S tires, and their performance on track days is truly impressive. They grip the road like suction cups when cornering in dry conditions, and don't slip even during quick lane changes in the rain. The emergency braking distance is noticeably shorter than regular tires. However, after prolonged use I've noticed some drawbacks: the sidewalls are as hard as rocks, going over speed bumps can shake your drink loose; at highway speeds on elevated roads the tire noise drones so loudly you need to turn up the music two notches to drown it out; most painfully, they wear out quickly - only about 30-40k km with aggressive driving. Recommended for enthusiasts who enjoy corner carving but still need daily usability, though they're a bit overkill for pure commuting purposes.
Back when I ran the repair shop, many customers asked if this tire was worth it. Honestly, the PS4S excels in wet traction and precise steering feedback—the tread groove design is Michelin's signature strength, significantly reducing hydroplaning on highways during heavy rain. The main drawbacks are road noise and price: its quietness technology falls short of Michelin's own Primacy series and is noisier than Bridgestone's comparable models; the price is also sky-high. Additionally, note that this tire suits southern climates—northern friends should never use it in winter, as the rubber hardens below 7°C, making it skate-shoe slippery. So overall, it's best for handling enthusiasts living in warm regions.
