Hey, just an FYI for anyone looking for replacement tires for their SVT. I just got a set of Sumitomo HTR Z II's. This is a surprisingly inexpensive tire ($80-$90/tire) but I'm lovin' them.
The most marked difference over the stock KDWs is the drastic decrease in road noise. I never thought the KDWs were particularly loud until I experienced the HTRs.
The ride is also a bit softer than the KDWs. Again, the SVT's ride isn't harsh, but I find that the HTRs strike a better compromise between firm and controlled versus just plain comfortable.
I haven't tried these tires in the rain yet, but discussions on tirerack.com say this is an awesome wet weather tire. In the snow, you may have some problems (I live in Texas, so I don't care).
My only other caution is that these tires just ain't as grippy as something like a Michelin Pilot Sport. They're very good, but they're not outstanding. Then again, I paid $450 for my set of HTRs--half the price of Pilot Sports--and that's including tire disposal, balancing, shipping from tirerack, new valves, and tax. Not a bad deal at all.
I'd be curious if any other readers have tried this tire.
