Both Michelin Defender and Altimax Rt43 have very similar and competitive features. Their making is for the same market. In this article, we have done some digging to help you settle on one of them. We will dive deep into explaining the features that make each of the two unique.
Comparing General Altimax Rt43 vs Michelin Defender, the Michelin Defender LTX emerged the winner courtesy of its high load capacity and high performance on different terrain. General Altimax Rt43 became the runners up only because its treads are a bit shallow.
Comparison Of General Tire Altimax Rt43 VS Michelin Defender LTX M/S and T+H
General Altimax Rt43 Review
General Altimax Rt43 is a product of the General tire company that started in 1915. The company first began in Ohio, USA. The design on the General Altimax Rt43 tire has low surface abrasion technology that ensures even treadwear and, as a result, extends tread life. Secondly, the StabiliTread technology makes a flatter and larger footprint to reduce tread stress.
This tire features a replacement tire monitor that alerts you when the tire needs to be changed. Additionally, the visual alignment indicator helps you in identifying the misalignments of the wheel. Lastly, the tire design features a peak anti-slip design technology that increases the grippy edges for traction on wet and slippery roads. This tire is well suitable for the Subaru crosstrek.
Pros
- The tire has high traction on wet and snow surfaces.
- It has a longer tread life.
- Features a visual alignment indicator.
- Has low surface abrasion technology
Cons
- It is a bit expensive.
- Maybe a little bit noisy
Reviews Of Michelin Defender LTX M/S and T+H
Michelin Defender is a tire from Michelin tire making company based in France. This company that started in 1889 has made it their culture to produce quality tires that you will only love. The Michelin Defender is of two different types; Michelin Defender LTX M/S and Michelin Defender T+H. These particular tires are long-lasting, courtesy of the Max-construction design. This design evenly distributes the force of contact between the tire and the surface. Additionally, the EverTread compound provides long-lasting dependability.
In their making, the tires use IntelliSipe technology to maximize grip and control in all seasons. The grip is perfect even on wet surfaces. The treads align to form special grooves that take care of hydroplaning. This tire assures you of comfort and quietness.
Pros
- Prevents hydroplaning
- It has exceptional grip even on wet surfaces.
- Has aggressive treads for high traction
- Uses durable rubber compound
Cons
- It may not be perfect in the snow.
- It is a bit expensive.
A Comprehensive Comparison Between general Altimax Rt43 Vs Michelin Defender LTX M/S and T+H
Company Establishment
Some brands are more reputable than others. Some have been in operation for a long time and therefore gained experience. General tires company started in 1915. However, Andre Michelin and Eduardo Michelin founded the Michelin brand in 1889, and within the years it has been in operation, it has gained reputable experience in making quality tires. Michelin has had more experience than General tires.
Winner: Michelin defender.
How They Perform In Different Weather
When buying a tire, you ought to be sure about its performance in different weather. The weather has become so unpredictable nowadays. The best all-weather tire must have superiority in two things; grip and traction. General Altimax Rt43 has tread depth, ranging between 10/32″ and 11/32″ and section width ranging between 7.2”-10”. On the other hand, Micheline defender T+H has tread depth of 10/32” while that of Michelin Defender LTX M/S tread depth ranges from 10.5/32 to 13/32” and a section width ranging between 7.4”-12.3″. Therefore, Michelin Defender LTX M/S will give a higher surface area of contact and grip than Michelin Defender T+H and General Altimax Rt43.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
Performance in Mud, Snow, Off-Road, All-Terrain
All-terrain tires have traction on different surfaces irrespective of temperature and weather. For a tire to be described as an all-terrain tire, it must feature open tread design and reinforced sidewall. If you check these features from the two tires, you will realize that the Michelin Defender LTX M/S has deeper and aggressive treads than both Michelin Defender T+H and General Altimax Rt43. Also, its sidewall is more reinforced and uses higher abrasion rubber compared to General Altimax Rt43 and Defender T+H. Therefore, it will handle all terrains better than General Altimax Rt43.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
How Solid they are?
Physical look and dimensions determine the amount of tire that will be in contact with the surface. As a result, this determines the amount of stability the wheel will have when braking and when cornering. The section width of the Michelin Defender LTX M/S ranges from 8.5″ to 12.3” while that of Michelin Defender T+H is from 7.4” to 9.7”. On the other hand, the section width of the General Altimax Rt43 ranges from 7.2″ to 10″. Therefore, Michelin Defender will be more stable when braking and cornering.
Winner: Michelin Defender LT M/S
Speed Rating Comparison
Speed rating defines the highest speed the tire can withstand at optimum conditions. Michelin Defender LTX M/S speed rating of R, T, H. On the other hand, General Altimax Rt43 has a speed rating range of H(130mph) to V(149mph) while Michelin Defender T+H speed rating is H. Therefore, General Altimax Rt43 can withstand higher speeds than the Michelin Defender.
Winner: General Altimax Rt43
Load Range Comparison
Load range determines the amount of weight that the tires can comfortably handle at optimum conditions. The higher the load range, the higher the carrying capacity. The load range increases with an increase in the ply rating. The max load of General Altimax Rt43 ranges from 1047lbs to 2039lbs, while that of Michelin defender LTX M/S ranges between 1074lbsto 4080lbs. On the other hand, the Michelin Defender T+H load range is between 1074lbs and 1929lbs. Michelin Defender LTX M/S has a higher load capacity compared to its competitor.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
Tread Design
The tread compound design determines the tread life. This compound also influences the uniformity of tire wearing. Both Michelin defender T+H and Michelin defender LTX M/S use EverTread technology when making the treads. This technology ensures that the treads can grip the surface properly and withstand severe friction. On the other hand, General Altimax Rt43 features StabiliTread technology to reduce the stress on the treads. Also, General Altimax features additional designs to help you maintain your tire.
Winner: General Altimax Rt43
Towing Performance
Towing is the ability of a tire to pull comfortably. Towing stability is influenced by two things; the load range and the treads. Tires with higher tread depth and load range often have higher towing stability. Coming back to our two tires, Michelin Defender LTX M/S has a load range of 1074lbs to 4080lbs and a tread depth range of 10.5/32 to 13/32”. On the other hand, Michelin defender T+H has a load range of 1047lbs to 2039lbs and a tread depth of 10/32” while General Altimax Rt43 has tread depth, ranging between 10/32″ and 11/32″. Therefore, Michelin defender LTX M/S will be more stable when towing than its counterpart.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
Shock Absorption
All tires withstand a certain amount of shock and absorb it. The shock absorption depends on the technology used in making the tire and the depth of the treads. Tires with deeper treads can flex easily between uneven surfaces. Michelin Defender LTX M/S has deeper treads and can, therefore, handle more shock than both General Altimax Rt43 and Michelin Defender T+H.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
Grip And Traction
Traction is the amount of grip a tire offers on the surface. The technology in the tire and tread depth determine the level of grip in the tire. Michelin Defender T+H uses IntelliSipe technology to increase the grip the tire has on wet surfaces. The treads of this tire are wide to stimulate hydroplaning. Michelin Defender LTX M/S only offers deep treads for traction on the tires. On the other hand, the General Altimax Rt43 tire uses peak anti-slip design technology to increase between the tire and the surface. However, the shallow tread depth reduces its traction on wet surfaces.
Winner: Michelin Defender T+H
Side Wall Performance
Sidewall performance is vital because it protects the tire from bursts. Additionally, highly reinforced sidewalls perform better in all terrains. Michelin Defender LTX M/S sidewall is more reinforced and looks more aggressive as compared to those of General Altimax Rt43 and Michelin Defender T+H. Also, Michelin Defender LTX M/S is thicker to withstand the high load capacity than the former.
Winner: Michelin Defender LTX M/S
How Durable These Tires Are?
Nobody loves spending all of their salary on tires; therefore, durability and uniform wear are two very important features of a tire. Both Michelin Defender T+H and Michelin Defender LTX M/S design use the EverTread compound in the MaxTouch construction to ensure that the tire has an even distribution of forces for even wear. On the other hand, General Altimax Rt43 StabiliTread technology with a replacement tire monitor and visual alignment indicator. The two features alert you when the tires need to be changed and when there is misalignment. Between the two, General Altimax Rt43 will provide more uniform wear and durability than both Michelin defenders.
Winner: General Altimax Rt43
Weight
The weight of the tire determines how easily you can carry it around. Lighter tires give you an easy time when you are swapping the tires if you have a puncture. Michelin Defender T+H has its weight ranging from 16lbs to 28lbs. On the other hand, General Altimax Rt43 weight ranges between 15lbs to 31lbs while Michelin Defender LTX M/S has its weight ranging between 24lbs to 58lbs. Therefore, Michelin Defender LTX M/S vs General Altimax RT43 in weight, Michelin defender LTX M/S is heavier than general Altimax RT43.
Winner: Michelin defender LTX M/S
Are They Affordable?
You cannot buy something with the money you don’t have. Therefore, considering your budget is equally important. The prices of Michelin Defender T+H range from $106.99 to $200.99 while Michelin defender LTX M/S prices range from $148.99 to $262.99. On the other hand, General Altimax Rt43 prices range from $71.20 to $180.99. The latter is, therefore, cheaper than the Michelin Defenders.
Winner: General Altimax Rt43
Why Should You Consider Michelin Defender?
The Michelin defender represents what every rider needs. These tires have a good balance of off-road and on-road qualities. They have a high load capacity that makes them ideal for towing. What’s more, the tire has a high-speed rating. This tire is ideal for SUVs, sedans, coupes, and light trucks.
Why Should You Consider General Altimax RT43?
General Altimax RT43 represents the best features one could look for when on a tight budget. It is light such that you can change the tire without much need of help. The tire’s look and dimensions ensure that your car remains stable when cornering and braking. The sidewall reinforcement protects it from potential bursts. This tire is ideal for light cars like sedans, coupes, and SUVs.
Conclusion
Comparing General Altimax rt43 vs. Michelin Defender, each fits perfectly in its own way.
Use Michelin Defender if:
- You’re looking for a high load capacity tire.
- You drive off-road regularly.
- You want high towing stability.
Use General Altimax RT43 if:
- You’re tight on budget.
- You want a stable tire when cornering.
- You do street driving.
Last Updated on November 24, 2024 by Rifen