Thread: Federal or Kumho

Ive had Federal Couragia MT's on my truck ( 35x12.5R17) since new , (not a defender) I'd heard they were nothing but rubbish, about what you'd expect for under $300 , I didn't want MT's but they were the only 35's available at the time with a 124 load rating, But I have to say that Ive had no issues during 40,000 km, most of it on dry outback roads, even surprisingly good on sand. I got bogged once but lowering by 10psi had the tyres clawing out no issues, great self cleaning just like bar treads,

Im on my 2nd set but next time round Im going Hankook 37" MTs , the Federals are way too noisy, they are even noisy on dirt !!

Hi Pete,
Ive just replaced a set of Federal Couragia MTs 235/85 R16s
Lasted approx 45,000kms with excellent grip on and off road. Would have bought another set if they made them in 255/85 R16 - as the price is pretty sharp.
Realised how noisy they where with the new tyres fitted though(BFG KM2,s in 255) - we can have a normalish conversation now!!

Cheers
Chris

Thanks guys, I know a few other people who run the federals and love them and rate the over Maxxis Bighorns which is what im running now in a 285 75 r16. Ill be getting a 315 75 r16 which I can get in both the Federals and Kumhos for $255 per tyre. I can also get KM2s for $345 a tyre in a 315 75 r16.... id rather not fork out more than I have to though

I have Bighorns in 255/85 on the 130 and can't say I'm a big fan though they have never let me down, bought them as the cheaper option in 255s. I did have the federals on the Suzuki at one stage and they were pretty good, lived a hard life, currently the Suzuki is on Kumho KL71 in 235/85 and of all 3 I prefer the Kumho, even for competition use though the vehicle can only do 90 kmh and the engine screams so loud that I couldn't really comment on tyre noise, my impression is that the Kumho is the quieter.

Im not really concerned about tyre noise either.... running a 2.5" straight through exhaust drowns out most noises

I have the federals in 285/75/16 on my rangie, they drown out my isuzu4bd1 with 3" exhaust, so noisy, can't wait to get rid of them

I have run both tyres on disco 2's
I preferred the feel of the Kumhos and they were a tiny bit quieter. The only downside is they are directional. This does help in the mud though.

Cheers
Michael.

I have Federal Couragia ATs in 235/85/R16 on my 130. I've only just fut them on having been spares for a few years. I can't believe how quiet they are. Otherwise untested - just up and down the highway.