I don't know that there is a direct correlation between tire lifespan, age and harshness. Certainly, a tire with full tread is a bit squishier to a sensitive driver. And maybe quieter, due to no unusual wear patterns having developed yet.
However, the idea that the sidewalls become markedly stiffer and therefore harsher with time is not something I see on the Michelin tires I typically use. Maybe on lower quality tires, this is a "thing". One thing that could settle the issue is hot day vs. cold day and/or driving hard enough to heat up the tires, and thereby soften the rubber a little. Seeing if that makes a big difference in ride quality.
We have a set of these on our 2020 CRV EX-L, now at 3 years and 10,500 miles, last inspection they were at 10/32 and still very smooth and quiet. Excellent in the wet and light snow. They replaced the factory installed Bridgestone Ecopia's at about 1200 miles which were noisy, lousy in the rain and harsh riding. I'd buy the LX-25's again in a heartbeat. They've been rotated once and are wearing very evenly.My new LX-25 Conti's tires are 12/32". the first few weeks at times the tires squirmed a lot. It is less noticeable after 2 months. Hope it improves even more by spring. The ride quality is quite nice. They are warranted for 70K. Well see in a few years.
You bought a touring tire from a mid-grade brand. What did you expect?I had some Michelin Energy tires that came on the '12 Camry. After 52k miles/roughly 5 years changed them out for some General RT43s. The old Michelin tires were more quiet, smooth, etc. than the new Generals. Definitely went down a tier or two with the new tires. I couldn't believe how much better the old tires felt.
I had some Michelin Energy tires that came on the '12 Camry. After 52k miles/roughly 5 years changed them out for some General RT43s. The old Michelin tires were more quiet, smooth, etc. than the new Generals. Definitely went down a tier or two with the new tires. I couldn't believe how much better the old tires felt.
I replaced the low tier Continental that comes on hybrids. Not terrible tires if you think sliding off of curves in hot conditions is OK. They were just not confidence inspiring. Managed to get the LX-25 with good rebate and sold the old Conti's for $75. I like the tires, they have lots of feedback through the wheel, have a quiet ride, and the wheels seem to have less rebound impact after hitting a big bump. Only have about 1500 miles on them, so still in the honeymoon phase.They replaced the factory installed Bridgestone Ecopia's at about 1200 miles which were noisy, lousy in the rain and harsh riding. I'd buy the LX-25's again in a heartbeat. They've been rotated once and are wearing very evenly.