Road Cycling - tire buying decision question

Hi, I ride recreationally, currently using $20. 700x23cc Hutchinson tires. I need new ones, and have heard that the more expensive tires give a more 'supple' road feel. I wouldn't spend more than $40, however. ( I did read the previous post on tire prices.) Is it worth it to spend $40 versus $20, given a modest riding style of no more than 15-20 miles at a time? For that price range are certain brands preferable?

Casong,
If you are looking to save some money and you are not brand loyal, may I invite you to check the link in my signature.

The original tires on my bike were Kendras and they were decent. I bought more expensive tires to replace those when the cord started showing (Fortezza's). Darn if the rear one didn't get a nasty gash in it within 700 miles. In need of a tire in a hurry I got a cheap Specialized at my LBS ($15). I'm thrilled with it. Wearing well. Of course I could still get a nasty cut in it but at least I'm only out $15. I don't know if I could distinguish the feel of the road... Anyway I'm a 120-150 mile a week rider from late spring to early fall. Strictly recreational with a century thrown in here or there. From my perspective the cheap tire is just fine for me.

Hi, I ride recreationally, currently using $20. 700x23cc Hutchinson tires. I need new ones, and have heard that the more expensive tires give a more 'supple' road feel. I wouldn't spend more than $40, however. ( I did read the previous post on tire prices.) Is it worth it to spend $40 versus $20, given a modest riding style of no more than 15-20 miles at a time? For that price range are certain brands preferable?

How much money you hand out for tyres, doesn't directly equate to "suppleness". It often has more to do with brand name advertising, margin, or markup. The number of casing threads per inch (tpi) (according to theory) is capable of providing a somewhat "smoother" ride (all other factors being equal). I have seen fairly high count tpi numbers (100tp1-120tpi) in $25-$30 tyres and in the $40-$50 dollar ones as well. I can't speak to the $20 tyres.
Your $20 dollar tyre might be perfect for you.
What was the matter? were you in the middle of a 15mile ride and sudenly thought, "Wow!! I'd really like some more suppleness in my tryres."
Point is, don't translate higher cost with some real tangible benefit. Sometimes spending more might get you something extra and many times it doesn't. Read up on the issues by researching on the web. It's all out there.

Also check: http://www.biketiresdirect.com/

And check: http://www.bicycletires.com/tek9.asp?pg=tireselections

Either of these two place should get you more tire for the money then at a LBS so you try more expensive tires if you want.