Discount tire Ride Matching Legit or Bunk?

Question

I recently purchased a new set of Yoko YK520's for my car. When I went in, they presented me with an option for "ride matching", it's supposed to perfectly match the tire with the rim resulting in a smoother ride.

I didn't understand how this was different then properly balancing the tire, but it sounded like a good thing. Anyhow I agreed to have this done then found out it cost $100! I was a bit floored by the price.

Here is a link the their advertisement of the feature.

http://www.discounttiredirect.com/direct/brochure/info/tmpInfoRoadForce.jsp;jsessionid=FLQJFm82bxMdLX3tL6DT1hnd2FjhhGTT1MjPWDqfGGTqXg4QQQZS!923105897!NONE

I was also surprised that this only needs to be done once for the life of the tire.

So, was this a good idea or did I get ripped off?

Mike

Answer 1

In theory it is a good idea, IF you drive a high performance, delicately balanced race car at speeds exceeding 170 mph.
On the standard road vehicle, it is a waste, sort of putting a fifty-dollar saddle on a five dollar horse. Something you can brag about, but nothing that is really going to pay dividends for you or your ride.
A good balance job is ample.
When this sort of "matching" is done, it is effective only until there is tire wear, or a flat. When the tire is removed and placed back on the wheel, it is rarely placed that precisely on the rim again.

Happy Motoring

Answer 2

Is Discount Tire Direct Legit

Answer 3

Looks to me like you got taken. For a true balancing, you need to spin balance the tire/wheel assembly ON THE CAR. This takes into consideration any imbalances from the wheel bearing out, including your hub, rotor or brake drum, etc. I understand what they are saying about matching the tire to the wheel, I just don't buy it. If your suspension were that sensitive, you would have more problems than a little vibration from an imbalanced wheel. You would do much better having the assembly balanced on the car.

The link you gave said $40 for a set of four. How did you wind up paying $100?

Answer 4

If anyone can give him legit competition in an Amateur Wrestling match in the WWE, it would be Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin. Yes, Kurt Angle won an Olympic Gold Medal, but he won by unanimous decision. In a legit match, I think Haas and Benjamin could give him a run for his money if they were of the same weight class. Otherwise, he would destroy everyone in a legit wrestling competition.