Tires .... which are best ???

[Luke@tirerack]

Tires .... which ones are the best ...

We have broken down tires into several catagories and here is a short list of what I have experienced in our testing. Now remember, we do not have every single tire line in the world so, if your particular favorite is not in this list it is probably because we haven't tested it. Also, this is my take on the testing that I have completed here at The Tire Rack on our test track.

Maximum Performance:

These are the absolute best performing tires on the market. Great steering response and wet/dry traction (not for use inthe snow!!!) which is at home on the track.

1.)S-03 Pole Position
2.)Pilot Sport
3.)P-Zero Rosso
4.)S-02 Pole Position (discontinued)
5.)AVS Sport

There is 1 glaring omission in this list. It is the BFG G-Force T/A KD. The reason for this tire not being on the list is because of its lack of versatility. It is the best performing tire in the dry but, is almost scary in the wet.

Ultra High Performance:
A step down form the Max tires but, still exceptional performance which fits most application for a street tire that can be driven very aggressivley.

1.) Firehawk SZ50 EP
2.) Potenza RE730's (extreme noise issues)
3.) A520
4.) G-Force KDW
5.) Sport 8000
6.) HTR Z II

3-6 are all very close in performance levels. The noise issues of the 730's are mostly related to larger/heavier cars with rear wheel drive.

Ultra High Performance All Season
Performance tires which are capable of going through the snow.

1.) Sport 5000
2.) AVS DB (the quietest tire I have driven)
3.) G-Force KDWS
4.) Pilot XGT Z4
5.) P7000 Super Sport

I hope this helps you in your tire selections

Thanks, Luke@tirerack
877-522-8473 ext. 362

[LX98Civic]

I have Kumho Supras on my Honda.

Very happy with them so far....

[Luke@tirerack]

The Kumho Ecsta Supra 712 is an entry level Ultra High Performance tire which is a very good value but, does lack the performance ability of the tires on the list

[CraigFL]

I presently have P-Zeros on my car. I need to replace the rears soon but am questioning continuing with the P-Zero and maybe switching. Since I don't use my tires to the absolute maximum, I am looking for something that feels the best -- predictable and tight (low slip angle). I never drive in the rain so that's not important. Any suggestions??

[RevHappy Cowboy®]

Originally posted by Luke@tirerack

Ultra High Performance All Season
Performance tires which are capable of going through the snow.

4.) Pilot XGT Z4

Are these any different from my OEM equipped Pilot XGT V4s besides the speed rating? What do you think of the V4s personally? I have the Acura 1.6EL from Canada, they came with P195/55R/15 size Pilot XGT V4 tires.

[fritz_269]

Interesting note about the RE730 noise issues. I would have had no idea; my '98 Prelude SH is shod with 205/50R16 Bridgestone RE730 all around (37psi front / 33 psi rear), and they are at least as quiet as the stock Bridgestone RE92 tire. The road noise dropped in tone slightly, from a hiss to more of a hum, but they're still very quiet. When pushed hard they do talk significantly, but I like that as it gives me good indication of how close to the edge I am. In normal street driving, I pretty much never hear them.

I would recommend the RE730 very highly - excellent wet and dry traction, smooth breakaway, very good treadwear, and a surprisingly comfortable ride. Overall, they're the best tire I've ever owned.

If you can't quite afford the SO-3 PP, I think the RE730 is the next best thing for a sporty FWD.


PS> Luke - Welcome to AF & thanks for being here!

[JustinP10]

Another tire that should be looked at for that list is the Falken Azenis Tire. I am very happy with the set that I have. The only downside I can see with them is the treadwear, being as soft as they are, they might not last too long under normal everyday street tire use. I believe they are rated by Falken at 200.