I can't comment on the stickier tires like the Powers cuz I've always run higher mileage tires. My stock Macadam 90X crap were replaced with a Bridgestone BT010 front, BT020 rear, which was an improvement (lasted ~10,000 miles). Then went with the original Roads for three rears (~10,000 miles each) and two fronts (~15,000 miles each). Recently replaced the Road 1's with 2's and I've been very happy with the new Road 2's. My only hope is they have a service life as good as the 1's.
I'm sure I'd love stickier tires, but the Scotsman in me is too cheap to be buying tires every 3500 miles - which would be 2-3 sets of tires every year. Since I've never known anything better, the Road 2's are great and I'm liking them a lot - especially in the wet where they've been very confidence inspiring!