[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

I know that the recommnedation is to not buy tires older than ~5 years due to UV damage, but how long should a spare last in the trunk or under the car? There isn't any UV exposure there.

 

[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

My solution:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10200698379037292&l=4681610795

(you don't need to be a facebook member to see the pic)

 

[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

So, you are saying that the "new" tires were installed before you stored it?

 

[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

And run-flats have their own issues.

I have never owned a set, but from what others have told me they have a harsher ride.

There is also the availability issue... when it is time to replace them, can you get them? in your size? what are your options? what do they cost?

 

[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

Does AAA get the truck there any faster?

In over a million kilometers of driving, I have had only 2 flats... and both times I was on my way within 20 minutes.

In 2005 it took 3 days to get a replacement tire in to the small town I lived in... and that took some calling around.

 

[Jeff2KPatriotBlue]

Thanks for the links. For the record, I didn't like ABS brakes when they first came out either, but accept them now.

Another prospective technology is a "spoked" tire. This has a series of flexible "truss" structures in it, and doesn't use air pressure at all... will post a link when I find it.
http://auto.howstuffworks.com/tweel-airless-tire.htm

here it is.