Well guys, from a wholesale perspective, the price of 24" tires has dropped significantly in the last 2 months. Manily b/c of wanli, cooper, general and other brands introducing 24" tires. As far as retail goes, the prices will be dropping pretty soon. Most retailers have to get rid of the old 24" tires they paid $350+ for before they can order more rubber at the current prices. FYI wanli, cooper, kumho and some hankook are going to be your best bets for 24" tires in the next few weeks/months. Current wholesale pricing on 24" rubber is great, so I am thinking retail is going to be about $350/tire or less.
As far as 26" tires, I have heard there will be a big price drop in upcoming months, but none of these tires have hit US tire import wholesale lists yet. I am guessing early 2006 before we see these tires and mid 2006 before 26" tires pricing totally levels off.
Hope this helps guys!