Hey folks, I would really like to buy a ls500 but the ride was quite a bit worse than the new es350 I drove. I know this is likely due to the runflats but it’s a bit hard to buy such an expensive vehicle in the hopes swapping out the tires will make it that much better. Can anyone comment on how the ls500 ride with conventional tires compares to the ES350? Thanks.

 

I know that several posts complain about the harsh ride with runflats, but I traded a 2018 LC500 for a 2022 LS and think the ride is great.

 

I traded my LS500 in for a new ES hybrid. Surprisingly they ride almost identical and in some situations the coil suspension is better than the air suspension I had. My LS had regular tires.

 

I just replaced the runflat tires on my 2018 LS500 with Continental tires yesterday. There was a vast improvement in ride quality and noise reduction after getting rid of the run flat tires. It still doesn't ride as smooth as my 2000 Buick LeSabre, but is acceptably smooth now. Prior to the swap, any sharp bumps in the road felt harsh. Now the ride is compliant and feels like it should. I hope this helps!!

 

Shortly after buying my LS, I got a nail in one of the run flats. I decided to replace with Michelin Crossclimate 2. They made a huge difference - much more quiet and smooth

 

Replaced mine with Michelin Primacy All Season unidirectional and not only is it quieter and smoother, it feels safer in the rain because of the tread pattern. I have Michelin Pilot Supersport Z/P on before and they were good until they werent, and then they got loud and they wore down really quick.

To be safe, I got a AAA premier membership and a ResQ flat repair/inflation kit in case I do get a flat. I believe they come standard with some German cars in Europe but not so sure about here.

 

A lot will depend on which year you are looking at. The 2018-2020 LS 500 has the older shock/bushing/air suspension setup which was considered a harsh ride (better when the run flats are replaced). The 2021-2022 LS 500 has revised shocks, springs, dampers and air suspension which I've read makes for a much smoother ride. I own a 2018 LS and have not driven the 2021+ LS so I do not have a personal opinion on the difference.

 

I would like to know some more about your Michelin Crossclimate2. I had them on my LS460L but now I have a 2018 LS500. What are your thoughts on today noise vs the run flats? My wife hates the ride of the LS500. Do they also have that edge protector where there tires stick out past the edge of the rim too protect it?

Thanks

 

I can't wait to ditch these runflats.

 

Took my 2021 in for service a couple of months ago and mentioned noisy tires to the service tech. Turned out the tires were worn out with just under 11K miles and was told that was normal. Luckily they had a barely used IS500 on the floor which I had been wanting for a long time so I just traded cars. So nice not to have turbo lag anymore and regular tires.

 

Another LS500 owner who wouldn't buy another, join the club.

 

No just another one too broke to write a check for an LS and financed.... Now housing prices are tanking too.

 

Lingus should be permanently banned.

 

Just enjoy the superior quality and performance of your Lexus LS500 like the rest of us.

 

New run flat Bridgestones on my 2020 ride great. Maybe that will change, I will see.
I would prefer the runflats since I have spinal stenosis.
Changing a flat on the side of the road doesn’t interest me. Also, a conventional wheel and tire would really eat up trunk space.
I suspect the entire market will eventually switch to runflats. Heck, most people out there wouldn’t even know how to change a flat tire.