Tire: Blizzak LM-60 RFT
Category: Performance Winter / Snow
UTQG (treadwear): Not rated
The Blizzak LM-60 RFT is a run flat version of the original Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60, but has been developed to be used as an original equipment (OE) tire for the Mini Cooper, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Lexus IS (coupe and convertible), BMW X5, BMW X6, and Toyota Sienna vehicles. Bridgestone developed this tire exclusively for these vehicles so drivers would have an OE tire capable of handling severe winter weather including snow and ice. As a run flat tire, it can travel for a distance of 50 miles at 50 mph in the event of a puncture. Also since this is a performance winter tire, it utilizes a unique high silica tread compound to provide high speed stability and durability. The LM-60 meets the industry standard for severe snow service and Bridgestone recommends that you only install these tires in sets of four.
I think this tire might be where the Blizzak brand gets into a bit of trouble with watering down it's good name. What we've found is that while these tires are a solid choice for winter weather, they are not at the level of other Bridgestone Blizzak tires. Therefore it's hard for us to give them a thumbs up when considering that there are numerous other Blizzak branded tires on the market that have better traction and and performance. Run flat tires also do not have quite the longevity as regular tires, so expect to get around 25,000 miles out of a set, which is less than what you might see out of other performance winter tires. So unless you're pulling one over on the tire dealer, I'd say you might check out the other Blizzak tires if you are looking to stay within the Bridgestone family.
