Originally Posted by musicnsurf
sorry to hear about your abuse.

at the end of the day, your wallet can either handle it or not.

imho.
More like, at the end of the day, common sense will govern me in spite of an abundance of cash.
If you'll re-read, you'll note that I never said these tires were superior to the outstanding dry traction of a dedicated summer tire.
Rather, I have made a case that these are superior to dedicated summer tires in all other aspects, based on my driving/racing experience. In California, you never experience snow/slush/sleet. So, a compromise is not needed.
By buying these, I forfeited the absolute last fringe of pure all-out performance for a nice trade; being able to drive in all conditions, at all speeds, in every month of the year, and not clinch my teeth (and other areas) due to a fear of sliding off the road.
Important when you're on a budget, have ONE Crossfire, and no garage.
I'm happy for you that you're willing and able to pay the Pirelli tax.
Some folks, despite wealth, prefer catfish over caviar based on mere principle alone.
If something leaves a better taste in your mouth, for less cash... well that's how you get wealthy in the first place, right?