General AltiMAX RT45 Overview – Everyday Comfort and Long Tread Life
The General AltiMAX RT45 is a touring all-season tire designed for sedans, coupes, and small crossovers. It’s engineered to deliver year-round traction, long tread life, and a smooth, quiet ride. As the successor to the well-regarded RT43, the RT45 incorporates updated tread technology for better mileage, improved wet grip, and enhanced road comfort. Built for everyday drivers, it combines affordability with dependable all-weather performance.
Key Features and Tread Technology in the AltiMAX RT45
The AltiMAX RT45 features a symmetric tread pattern optimized for even wear and balanced handling in dry, wet, and light snow conditions. General Tire uses a high-density all-season compound that maintains flexibility in various temperatures while resisting wear over time.
Highlighted technologies include:
- Twin Cushion Silica Tread Compound for improved wet grip and long-lasting durability
- SmartGrip Technology that adapts to road conditions for enhanced year-round traction
- Replacement Tire Monitor (RTM) and Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) built into the tread to help drivers detect misalignment and monitor wear
- Optimized pitch sequencing for a quieter, more comfortable driving experience
Altogether, these features ensure the RT45 is a dependable and low-maintenance option for a wide range of driving environments.
General AltiMAX RT45 Tire Performance Review
Dry Road Handling and Stability
The General AltiMAX RT45 performs reliably on dry pavement, with stable straight-line tracking and good cornering composure. The tread blocks maintain consistent road contact, providing dependable grip and short braking distances for daily driving. While it isn’t designed for aggressive performance, it offers enough responsiveness for confident maneuvering in city and highway conditions.
Wet Traction and Rain Performance
On wet roads, the AltiMAX RT45 delivers strong braking and hydroplaning resistance. The silica-infused compound improves traction in wet conditions, while the circumferential grooves help evacuate water efficiently. Drivers can expect predictable cornering and controlled stops during rainstorms, making the RT45 a safe choice for variable climates.
Light Snow Traction and All-Season Capability
As an all-season tire, the RT45 offers usable traction in light snow and slushy conditions. Its siping pattern and SmartGrip Technology allow for limited winter use, especially in transitional seasons. However, it’s not designed for deep snow or icy roads, and those in colder climates will benefit from switching to dedicated winter tires when needed.
Ride Comfort and Road Noise Levels
The ride quality of the AltiMAX RT45 is impressively smooth, especially for its price point. The twin cushion tread compound helps absorb road imperfections, reducing vibration on rough surfaces. In addition, the optimized pitch sequencing in the tread pattern minimizes road noise, making it ideal for long drives and daily commutes.
Tread Life and Built-In Maintenance Indicators
One of the most attractive features of the AltiMAX RT45 is its extended tread life. The tire wears evenly under proper alignment and inflation, aided by General’s built-in Visual Alignment Indicators (VAI) and Replacement Tire Monitor (RTM). These wear indicators help drivers detect uneven wear early and know when to replace the tire, maximizing its value over time. General backs the RT45 with up to a 75,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, depending on the size.
Technical Specifications of the General AltiMAX RT45
- Category: All-Season Touring
- Tread Pattern: Symmetric
- UTQG Rating: 700 A A (varies by size)
- Available Sizes: 14″ to 20″
- Speed Ratings: T, H, V
- Tread Depth (new): 11/32″
- Construction: Twin steel belts with polyester casing
- Mileage Warranty: 65,000 miles (V-rated), 75,000 miles (T & H-rated)
- Built-In Tread Indicators: RTM and VAI wear systems
Pros and Cons of the General AltiMAX RT45
Pros
- Excellent ride comfort and quiet performance
- Reliable wet and dry grip for everyday driving
- Built-in wear indicators for easy maintenance
- Long tread life backed by up to a 75,000-mile warranty
- Affordable pricing for a premium-quality touring tire
Cons
- Not suitable for severe winter conditions
- Lacks the sporty handling of performance tires
- Moderate snow traction only
- Lower speed ratings on some sizes
Final Verdict on the AltiMAX RT45 Touring Tire
The General AltiMAX RT45 all-season touring tire is a well-rounded option for drivers seeking comfort, long tread life, and low maintenance. Its consistent performance in dry and wet conditions, combined with a quiet ride and built-in treadwear indicators, makes it a practical choice for commuters and daily drivers alike. While it isn’t designed for aggressive cornering or harsh winter weather, the RT45 excels in everyday usability and durability. For those looking to get the most out of their mileage with minimal hassle, the AltiMAX RT45 offers impressive value.
Comparison Table: 5 Competing All-Season Touring Tires
| Tire Model | Dry Grip | Wet Grip | Ride Comfort | Snow Traction | Tread Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General AltiMAX RT45 | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Fair | Excellent (75k mi) |
| Michelin Defender2 | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | Excellent (80k mi) |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | Good | Very Good | Very Good | Good | Very Good (80k mi) |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Good (65k mi) |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | Good | Good | Very Good | Fair | Excellent (85k mi) |