I thought I'd give an end of life report on my tyres. They were Falken FK453, purchased in July 2008. They have lasted just 10,000 miles with the tread now at legal minimum and cracks have appeared in the side walls. I would not recommend this make/type of tyre. They have worn quickly over a small mileage and the cases have not remained in a safe condition.
Edit: Sorry Timm - they are FK452 tyres that have worn out.
However, I am struggling to find ANY replacement tyres to fit the rear wheel (265/40/R17). I am told by many tyre dealers that they are no longer made in this size. I have the M System-II wheels. I can get this width/ratio tyre in an 18", no problem, but having just bought new tyres for the Front: (ContiSport Contact 5 XL [which are excellent but they don't do this tyre in the rear size]), I don't want to have to change a complete set of original wheels just to go up to 18"!!
If ANYONE has a pair of rear tyres 265/40/17 sitting around in their garage PLEASE, PLEASE, PRETTY PLEASE, get in touch
Stumbled across two Dunlop SportMaxx - the only tyres left in correct size at £210 each inc fitting. I was despairing and thought I might have to go to 275/40/17 to get alternatives such as Michelin PilotSport2. Worth noting if you have the M System-II wheels - getting rear tyres is going to get very, very difficult.