Treadwear and Sticky Tires and Rims

[bryanearll]

I'm solid on the idea that sticky tires won't last long because they are a softer rubber.

However, looking at the fine chunks of tire removed over the weekend and the amount of pushing and skidding done I wondered whether the sticky tires might not just last longer against such abuse because they stick rather than slide on the pavement.

I can get a good deal on the ECSTA V700 Kumho, for example, and its available in 30/35/40/45/50/55 & 60 and either V or Z speed rated.

Another thought was bigger wheels. A set of stock GT3 wheels would fit. Bigger tire, more patch, more fun. I wonder there whether there the advantage gained would be offset by the weight and tire mass. The 996 only has 300hp.
Fun!
Bryan

[mnettles]

R compound tires disappear MUCH faster than street tires.... especially in the parking lot at the Q! If you're still pretty new to Autocross I recommend staying with street tires for a while. There are good choices for Autocross tires out there that aren't ridiculously expensive and have good performance (Kuhmo MX's are going on my 996 next week.... )

mj

[MikeD]

Kuhmo MX's are a good choice. Nice grip-to-wear ratio for the money if you ask me. I've had them on as my street tire and occasional track tire for most of this year. Excellent choice MJ, I think you'll like them.

[Mike]

It is possible to over drive any type tire, street, DOT R compound and racing slick. Maybe more seat time controlling the amount of pushing/skidding would extend your tire wear. Getting the most grip while not exceeding the tires limits (which shortens the tires life) is everyone's goal. If you did have a $700 set of R Compound tires and wasted/flat spotted them in one weekend you would not be happy, don't ask me how I know. Just don't flat spot your daily driver tires, or Monday on the way to work you'll regret it.

My experiance during my first year at the track... I was telling people my Victoracers were barely showing any wear...then I started to go little faster, and so did the tire wear.

With more seat time you can fine tune your sensitivity to the limits of the street tires. Besides, having your car loose on the street tires will challenge your car control skills more at the slower AX speeds. It is a good way to develop the skills required for high speed tracks and R compound tires.

[MikeD]

I would have to concour with Mike.