MR2 Roadster Owners Club

The Workshop => Performance Related => Topic started by: Anonymous on March 26, 2004, 13:49

Title: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on March 26, 2004, 13:49
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Stock Bridgestone Potenza RE040 205/50/15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Stock Bridgestone Potenza RE040 185/55/15

Supplier: Supplied with car from new
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: None at the time.
Comments:

These were on my car when I bought it with 1k miles on the clock. In the past year done 15k and the rears are virtually down to the limit, and the fronts are mostly 4mm across. I say 'mostly' because I've been silly and not checked the car over properly for some time: result is worn inside edges on both fronts.   s:oops: :oops: s:oops:  I put this in as a REMINDER to everybody: Check your tyres regularly! Still at least this means I can try different tyre brand (I didn't want to mix brands front and rear).

Enough pre-amble: tyres were reasonable. Grip in the dry is pretty hot, in the wet I don't push the car much (nasty experience in the past), although breakaway is actually quite reasonable. Even I could hold a good wide slide the other day without any fishtailing. However, tramlining is dire! OK, so that could be a result of the alignment (proven by the uneven tyre wear).

Verdict:

Glad to have the opportunity to try something different. Although my bank balance is shaking at the thought   s:roll: :roll: s:roll:  ... I plan to have Goodyear F1's all round. I'm hoping for £80 a corner, we'll see.
Title:
Post by: markiii on March 31, 2004, 14:08
Guys please continue to post in teh format above, periodicaly I will prune this thread and move the content to teh website at

 m http://www.mr2roc.org/subdreamer/index. ... ticleid=22 (http://www.mr2roc.org/subdreamer/index.php?categoryid=9&p2_articleid=22) m

Please remember thsi thread is for info only all discussion should be placed elsewhere.

I will be brutal and delete/move any threads that are not in the correct format.

LAST MOVED TO DATABASE SEPTEMBER 2004
Title:
Post by: GSB on December 16, 2004, 18:36
Year of Roadster: 2004

Tyres: OEM Yokohama

Supplier: Supplied with car from new
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: TTE Lowering Springs

Comments:

Having driven my previous '2 through 2 pairs of Bridgestone RE-040's and a set of Toyo T1-S's, these really are a let down... I've given them 2000 miles to show themselves in their best light, but quite frankly they're a dead loss. They have planty of grip on dry roads, although the feel of them could be a little more re-assuring, but put them on the damp slightly greasy kind of tarmac that Britian dishes up on the other 360 days of the year and they're hopeless. There's no progression, no feel of the limits, and a twitchiness that would see me out-cornered by a pensioner in a metro. They really are dire, but they're dangerous with it. Frankly I cant wait for them to wear out so I can justify binning the things and getting some decent rubber under the arches. Even the under-rated OEM  Bridgstones were a better tyre than these, The Toyo's were a different class.  A real disapointment considering they're from a company with such "sporting" intentions.


Verdict:

Awful. Truly, eye-wateringly awful...
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on January 26, 2005, 14:35
Year of Roadster; 2002

Tyres; Toyo Proxes T1-R

Rear; 205/50/15 (6.5"x15", +45mm offset - OEM alloy wheels)
Front; 185/55/15 (6.0"x15", +45mm offset - OEM alloy wheels)

Supplier; Tyres King's Lynn

Cost £210 fitted and balanced for all 4 corners

Suspension modifications; TRD front strut brace, TRD member braces and a corky antiflex plate (more chassis braces than suspension modifications really!)

Comments;

The tyres previously fitted to the car were Continental Premium Sport Contacts (they were fitted when I bought it) and they were truly pants! Their soft sidewalls made the car feel wallowy and slow to turn in. The T1-R's make the car feel completely different - much "pointier" and more direct. The ride is slightly firmer, however I much prefer this (feels like and sports car should!) and feed back in all areas is much improved. Grip levels in the dry or wet are unnervingly good! I'm currently running stock tyre pressures and feel no need to adjust them as the car feels well balanced. There is no noticeable road noise with these tyres either - much improved over the T1-s which I had fitted to my last 2 cars; Mk1 Mr2 and a Rover 200 vi (the shame of it!   s:oops: :oops: s:oops:    s:lol: :lol: s:lol:  )

An added bonus is that these tyres are relatively quite a bit lighter than my old ones - so the car seems to be more responsive too   s:twisted: :twisted: s:twisted:  

Verdict; I know what I'll be getting next time - especially at that price!
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on February 18, 2005, 15:44
Year of Roadster: 2001

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15"
Rear Tyres: Avon ZV3 205/50/15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15"
Front Tyres: Avon ZV3 185/55/15

Supplier: Mr. Tyre
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: None
Comments:

Bought before I joined the mr2-roc, followed advice from the tyre fitter.
Three days after they were fitted I took the car back coz it was driving like they were all flat. The fitter said that there was too much pressure in them and let some out, down to 31.
That night I span off the road into a tree, so no better then, I was ok but my car was a near right off. A month later I got the car back, with same tyres!, after many phone calls I finally got the tyre fitters to buy the tyres back, at cost so I lost £80 fitting/markup + my insurance excess £520. A very big lesson learned.

Verdict:

if you like hovercrafts these are the tyres for you, else avoid them like the plague
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on March 7, 2005, 20:40
Year of Roadster: 2001

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza Pole Position S03 205/50R15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza Pole Position S03 195/50R15

Supplier: Pneus Claude (local supplier with a 30,000 tyre stock specialised in high performance tyres.)
Cost: approx. GBP 65 per tyre.

Suspension mods: TRD WayDo Sportivo 4-way adjustable struts + TRD Sportivo spring set (with roll angle correction spacers) + TTE anti-roll bars + TRD member braces set.
Comments: Excellent suspension set up that can be easily fine-tuned for track days.

I have worked several years with the European tyre industry where the S03 (and previously the S02) are still considered by the industry to be the No.1 max performance rain tyre. The technology going into these tyres is copied but still unmatched. I've personally used (amongst others on my 911C4 and MR2) S02, S03, GY F1... I'm now sticking to the best: S03s!

Grip on dry conditions is excellent. However in extreme conditions (race track), the tyres will eventually start to overheat and deteriorate. The tyres are very progressive (absolutely no nasty surprises in the dry.)

Grip in wet conditions is simply incredible. No sudden loss of grip at the limit, but nice progressive dynamics. The only tyres I've used that could compare to S03 are S02 and GY F1s (but the F1's sidewalls are IMO far too soft -- tuned for the comfort seeking american market.)

Just as with competition tyres, the very stiff sidewalls of the S03 will give you a very high level of responsiveness, albeit with less comfort.

The S03 will last a lot longer than the stock OEM tyres (provided you don't abuse them too much on track days).

The main difference between S03 and "low cost" alternatives is that the S03 will provide you the same level of maximum performance throughout its life (not just for the first 5000 miles).

The setup I'm using using is Bridgestone Potenza S03 for everyday driving and they are perfect for wet track days.

For dry track days I've started to use Toyo Proxes R888 competition tyres (to avoid killing my rain tyres.)
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on March 14, 2006, 15:05
Year of Roadster; 2002

Tyres; Toyo Proxes T1-s

Front 215/35/18
Rear 225/35/18

Supplier; Roadstar Services

Cost £340 fitted and balanced for all 4

Suspension modifications; TRD front strut brace, 30mm Gmax lowering springs

Comments;

Loads of grip in the wet and dry. Rubs a bit over bumps but uprated shocks will hopefully stop that.

Verdict; Will definatly buy again
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on April 6, 2006, 17:49
Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes R 205/50/15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes R 185/55/15 (new set are 195/50/15 as they are cheaper still and apparently fine as a replacement?)

Supplier: Camskill
Cost: £170 plus fitting

Suspension mods: Eibach springs (-30mm)

Comments

Been meaning to add my comments for a while - I am now on my 4th set of tyres since I bought the car in Jan 04. Only 12k miles but they do mainly track miles hence the wear rate.

Original tyres were no name somethings. They were despatched in a couple of weeks including a day of limit handling at Bruntingthorpe and a day at Bedford. Can't really comment on their performance as I had no reference point. That said they broke away quite progressively and didn't do anything that made me think help!

The Toyos.

1. Very cheap. If you are burning them up on trackdays this counts. 200 or less for a full set versus 350 plus for Michelins, Bridgestone, Yokos starts to add up.
2. Great grip in wet and dry until they are very nearly canvas. This too is critical for me as somethimes you get carried away   s:oops: :oops: s:oops:  on a day and still have to get home safely on some pretty tired rubber.
3. Wear seems pretty good but they do seem to wear at the shoulders very quickly - this is very unscientific but a friend with an Elise (lighter and less power but.....) fitted a set at the same time and we did the same trip to the Nurburgring - a two day trackday and then a day at Bedford and his tyres were in noticeably better shape - of course this is inevitable on track especially as the sidewalls are very soft (in my opinion). I am hoping that the bracing added at the time of the Turbo install will help this a little - next step will be roll bars, strut brace and coilovers.
4. Pressures. They do seem to be very pressure sensitive - not in terms of outright grip where they maintain similar levels but in terms of wear. I initially followed motorcycle theory with the tyres on track days which is drop the pressures by several psi so they don't overinflate when warm with horrible consequences. With the Toyos this simply means more flex in the tyre and hence greater wear at the shoulder. I have now resorted to putting some extra pressure in the tyres +2psi to help with turn-in directness and prevent too much deflection of the tyre. Depending on ambient and track temperature I play with this during the day but so far haven't really coem to any conclusion - I think one of those lateral acceleration gadgets used by drifters and car mags may be the answer but: a. I don't have one and b. I really can't be bothered   s:roll: :roll: s:roll:  

Summary: pros - cheap, great grip until very worn, predictable breakaway
Cons - shoulders seem to wear quickly but may not be a tyre issue more of a suspension/driver issue.
Title:
Post by: mrsmr2 on May 9, 2006, 13:53
Year of Roadster: 2004

Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 225/40/16
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 195/50/15

Supplier: MyTyres
Cost: £171.60 plus fitting (June 2005)

Suspension mods: none

Comments

Very good grip in the dry and the wet.
Very soft sidewalls that really blunts turn in when using standard tyre pressures (26/32).
I'm running 28/34 which has significantly increased the turn in response.
But, there is an increase in understeer compared to the lower pressures.  Not sure how these pressures cope with the wet yet.
Terrible track tyres - far too soft.  Even running at 6-8 psi extra all round I've got terrible scuff marks along the side wall and into the tread.  In fact the car is pulling slightly to the left which seems to be due to the lack of tread on the front left outer wall.

Overall, good value, good grip but turn in is poor when on standard pressures.  Do not use on track.

I prefer the standard RE040s.
Title:
Post by: mrsmr2 on May 9, 2006, 14:00
Year of Roadster: 2004

Rear Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza RE040 215/45/16
Front Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza RE040  185/55/15

Supplier: supplied with the car
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: none

Comments

Very good grip in the dry and the wet.
Great turn in.
Terrible tramlining.
Reasonable tyres on track.  I did a handling day at North Weald but left the pressures as standard.  This caused a fair amount of scuffing to the side walls.  I increased the pressures for a track day at Bruntingthorpe and don't think I caused any further scuffing.

Tyres had done 16,300 miles and two track days and still had a tiny amount of tread left (wouldn't want to use them in the wet though).

Overall

Very good tyres, much better suited to my driving requirements e.g. sharp turn in and ability to survive a track day but let down by poor tramlining.
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on July 18, 2006, 03:09
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Year of Roadster: 2003


Front Tyres: Toyo Proxy 195/50/15
RearTyres: Toyo Proxy 225/45/16

Supplier: black Circles
Cost: £230 delivered and fited

Suspension mods: None

Comments:  Changed from worn stock yokos. After adjusting the tyre pressures given to me by the fitter (35 front 40psi rear!!!) to a more reasonable 30front 34 rear I have found these to be excellent tyres.
The tread pattern is asthetically much more pleasing as well! Excellent grip in the dry. Not driven in wet yet. Tonnes of feedback.
I use a large dual carriagway roundabout as a traction benchmark. Before I could make it round at a steady 35-38mph before starting to feel understeer. This is now 45mph+ and it's very predictable, just squirt a bit of power on and balance into a gentle oversteer. All very predictable and alot of fun.
You wont regret buying these tyres, just play about a bit with pressures.

edit- And the tramlining effect experienced with the old yokos is much reduced.
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on July 25, 2006, 13:29
year of raodster: 2001

rear wheels: team dynamics pro race 1.2 gloss black 16" by 7"
rear tyres: pirrelli p-zero nero 215 40 16
front wheels: team dynamics pro race 1.2 gloss black 16" by 7"
front tyres: kumho ecsta 195 45 16

pirrellis are unbeleivable
kumho's are crap
car now understeers when pushed hard but the back has never ever given way yet.kumhos came in that size as part of a package on all for alloys,they were the size I wanted for the front asnyway so just changed the rears to good tyres,fronts will be pirrelli when the kumhos die.

raining now,kumhos really crap!!!!!!!
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on March 12, 2007, 21:28
Year of Roadster: 53 plate Dec-2003

Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 225/40/16
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 195/50/15

Supplier: Mr T
Cost: all 4 £270 (Feb 2007)

Suspension mods: none

Comments
Very much of a dissapointment compared with stock RE040s.  Sidewalls too soft - loss of stability, too much body roll.  Steering wheel now selltles 5 degrees out to the left when travelling in a straight line. Alignmement perfect based on the ware of previous stock tyres taken off.  Tried upping the pressures to limit sidewall movement -really really bad idea tramlining &  instability got worse.  Now setup as 25 on the fronts & 32 on rears.  Best setup you can get IMO. Pay the extra and keep with stocks -buying these for a post facelift 2' will result in a downturn in handling performance!


Edit:  went to 30psi on the fronts & 36psi on the rears. slight imorovement... Then took the hard top off for the summer months and things improved significantly!  Toyos suffer badly due to the soft side walls;  the extra weight of the HT contributed to pants handling IMO.  I bet most of the members who advocate T1-Rs don't run them with a HT?  Having said that I've been wrong before!  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on March 28, 2007, 07:43
Just an update on my Toyos (T1R)
Have managed to get 17,000 of good use out of the rears and the fronts still have 5.5 mm of tread.
Definately need to up from standard pressures though.

When some people talk about their bad experiences with these tyres I can't believe they've driven the same rubber as me.
I really like them - compared to the stock yokos anyway.

Really is down to personal preference I suppose
Title:
Post by: red_leicester on April 28, 2007, 10:04
Year of Roadster: Sep 2001

Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 225/40/16
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 205/45/15

Supplier: Heathstimpson.
Cost: Cheaper than a shop.

Suspension mods: none


To be perfectly honest I can't say I've noticed much difference between these and the tyres I had on before (Continental SportContact) in the dry.

However, there is a big difference in the wet.  Whereas the Contis would 'snap' when the rears lost grip,  the rear Toyos lose grip more progressively giving me much more time to correct it.  Also, it seems as though the fronts start to lose grip at more or less the same time, which helps me to correct the rear (if you see what I mean  s:) :) s:)  ).  Better than the Contis at any rate, and much cheaper too!
Title:
Post by: ChrisGB on September 26, 2007, 00:44
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear Wheels: Stock Toyota 16"
Rear Tyres: Hankook RS-2 225/45R16
Front Wheels: Stock Toyota 15"
Front Tyres: Hankook RS-2 195/50R15

Supplier: Camskill Performance
Cost: £250

Suspension mods: 3.0 Racing Front strut, lower member, midship member, rear lower member and rear lower cross braces.

Comments:

First impressions are a slightly heavier tyre than the RE040s that these replaced, but smoother quieter ride. Pressures need to be lower than stock (I am at 24.5psi F and 29psi R). Sidewalls are stiff and turn in is very very strong.

Dry grip and traction is good when they are cold. The tyres feel a little vague at the limit when cold. Driven harder they warm up quickly and produce levels of grip the 040s could never manage. Feel and stability at the limit are excellent once the tyre has warmed up and it is possible to hold big cornering forces at quite big slip angles. At the limit, they do give a little warning of letting go by starting to squirm. Pushing harder, they let go quite quickly but can be recovered easily if you are quick with the corrective inputs.

In the wet, they are good in standing water, no unexpected aquaplaning. Lateral grip is good, traction is good. However, combine acceleration and cornering and the back can get to feel quite mobile without actually letting go. The couple of times I have had it sideways in the wet, gathering up the slide was not too difficult if caught early. As with the RE040s understeer is still the dominant bias in wet weather.

Verdict:

Comparing to the Bridgestone RE040s:

Pros:

More grip when hot
More progressive at limit (wet or dry)
Less snappy and easier to recover slide (wet or dry)
Smoother ride
Virtually no tram lining
Very strong turn in
Very accurate response to inputs
Very direct quick response to steering inputs
Good steering feel
Very throttle steerable (they seem to magnify the effect of the throttle position on the balance of the car)
Much more stable in high speed corners

Cons:

Very soft compound so may not last long
Can feel vague and disconnected at limit until you learn to read the feedback
Need to know if they are warm enough before really leaning on them
Larger diameter, lower pressure and wider tread all blunt straight line performance a little
Possibly a little less outright grip than the RE040 in the wet, but more exploitable.

I like 'em

EDIT: So I wore them out eventually. Grip stayed OK until they got down to around 3mm where both wet and dry grip was reduced and the tyres felt a little vague. Honestly no idea how many miles they did, it was more than expected. Replaced with Toyo R888.

Chris
Title:
Post by: cclarke99 on February 11, 2008, 21:10
Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: Standard
Rear Tyres: Standard Bridgestone Potenza RE040 205/50/15
Front Wheels: Standard
Front Tyres: Standard Bridgestone Potenza RE040 185/55/15

Supplier: Local garage who does all my maintenance
Cost: approx £300

Suspension mods: None

Comments:
Previously the car had Uniroyal "rain tyres" which seemed OK untill I got the Bridgestones; but I now realise they were useless - too soft in the sidewall & hard in the tread. Bridgestones took about 200 miles to really work well but now seem excellent to me, sharp turn in, perfect balance, loads of grip, wet or dry, just drift nicely on a wet roundabout. No tramlining to speak of, front moves about a bit under heavy braking on poor or wet surfaces, but nothing alarming. I certainly haven't reached their limit yet (which I did twice with the Uniroyals). Too early to comment on wear, but I suspect they may not last that long

Verdict:
The tyre the car was designed for, they're not the cheapest and there may be better, but I'm very happy with them.

Update:
Rears worn out after 2.5 years or approx 15k miles, fronts after 3.0 years or 18k miles. Now the fronts are almost gone, they've started to tramline a lot more
Title:
Post by: Jaik on March 29, 2008, 19:18
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Hankook RS-2 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Hankook RS-2 195/50R15

Supplier: Camskill.co.uk
Cost: £248

Suspension mods: None
Comments:

Initial 29th Mar 08: I only had these fitted today so don't know what they're really like yet, but compared to the stock Bridgestone Potenza RE040s they:
- Have added a welcome extra bit of weight to the steering since the fronts are wider
- Feel a lot more progressive and linear in the way they lose grip
- Give a more direct feel when accelerating (this is likely due to the 16" rears compared to my previous 15")

Update 31st Mar 08: In the dry they offer more grip than any other road tyre I've tried, certainly a lot more than the RE040. They're also very predictable; the handling felt a little too nervous and edgy on the stock RE040s whereas now it's much more planted and solid if ever-so-slightly less "eager".

Update 26th May 08: Well after about 4500 miles the rears are starting to get quite low on tread (2mm on the outsides) which means they're wearing faster than I'd expected, but have had some spirited driving with slightly off rear toe angles  s:oops: :oops: s:oops:

Update 18th Jun 08: After about 5000 miles the rears really need replacing. On the outside they're well into the wear indicators and it's a bit hairy in the rain. Not quite the lifespan I was hoping for but as in my previous update, this will most likely be in part due to my rear toe being slightly wrong.

Verdict:
Initial 29th Mar 08: We'll see; I'll update this post in a few weeks, but they seem better than the RE040s so far.

Update 31st Mar 08: I'm already very impressed. There is more grip and more importantly because it's so progressive when it does go, the available grip is much more useable on the road for an untalented/novice driver such as myself.
Title:
Post by: Anonymous on April 2, 2008, 08:58
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Hankook RS-2 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Hankook RS-2 205/45R16

Supplier: Camskill.co.uk
Cost: £280

Suspension mods: Tein S-Tech Springs, C-One front and rear anti-roll bars (rear set to stiffest), High & Tight Drop links, 3.0 Racing MSMB, C-One front and rear strut braces.

Comments: I have had these tyres on since late August last year and have covered about 5-6000 miles on them. I have MY03 rear wheels on the front of my car, which takes away a bit of the feel from the steering, however allows me to fit the wider 205/45R16 tyres, rather than the 195/50R15's like ChrisGB and Jaik. I am running 24psi front and 26psi rear, which i think gives me a good balance.

The RS2's have reduced understeer in the wet quite a bit, but has not got rid of the problem completley. The heavier wheels might have contributed to this also though due to the additional weight at the front. There is no understeer in the dry anymore, unless you go into a corner way too fast.

Overall dry weather handling is better than the stock RE040's, turn in is really sharp and the tyres repond instantly to changes in steering input. the rear of the car only squirms about when pushing it over a rough b/c road but is easily controlable with the throttle.

Wet weather wise, I have not let the wet weather stop me from going for a drive this winter, mainly because I trust the tyres, the sidewalls are stiff enough to give good feedback to what is happening, where as the Toyos for example have soft sidewalls, and do not give good feedback in my opinion. Aqua planing is no worse than the RE040's but it is still there, probably due to the wider contact patch, and it still scares the s**t out of me!

The tyres do not take as long to get warm as the Bridgestones did. They are easy to get warm in the wet too, which i found a bit harder on the RE040's.

The tyres seem to be wearing faster than the bridgestones but that was expected, however they are not wearing as fast as I had first thought.

The only downside to the tyre over the RE040 is in the snow, where it is useless as there are no tread blocks, but for the amount of snow we get here its not really that much of an issue.

Verdict: A much better tyre then the Bridgestone RE040, in my opinion much better than the Toyo's too (T1-R obviously). An awesome tyre in the dry and wet which can carry more speed into a corner and maintain the speed throughout. Well worth the money and will be buying again.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: ChrisGB on June 27, 2008, 16:49
Quote from: "Tem"Anyone have anything to say about the Kumho KU31 or KU15 on the '2?

I have only run the KU31 on my tuition car, a Skoda Fabia vRS with a 190bhp / 280lb/ft remap. They were 205/45R16 87W with reinforced sidewalls.

Grip was good (as good, if not  a little better than the Toyo T1R I run now in the dry) but they were much less progressive once they let go. The Toyos are better for wet grip and traction.

I have only spoken to one guy who ran KU15s (on a front driver) and he reckoned not particularly good in the dry and very slippery in the wet.

Chris
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on September 21, 2008, 11:32
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: Standard
Rear Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza 215/45/16
Front Wheels: Standard
Front Tyres: Standard Bridgestone Potenza 185/55/15

Supplier: Save on Tyres
Cost: approx £195 backs £176

Suspension mods: None

Comments:
The car had these on when I purchased it, its barely done any milage in past few years, but backs now need replacing and I've done the fronts too as they were really perished. So far I have only replaced the rears and its such a better drive handles 10 times better, cannot wait untill Monday to get fronts done as theres road movement at the minute when driving 60. I won't be ablt to comment on the tyre wear and tear as I only do about 3500 miles a year (if that)! So i hope these tyres last. I did loads of quotes including one which came to onver £550 for a set!

Verdict:
Been told by Save On this is the  tyre that the car comes out standard with and to stick with them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on November 25, 2008, 16:37
Rears 225/35/17 offset 45 (7.5 wheels) Yokohama SDrives on Team Dynamics 1.2 Pro Racers
Fronts 205/45/16 offset 38(7.0 /)

Lowered 30mm TTE.

Tyre pressure was initially set as 26 front & 32 rear and drove horendous! Tramlined.wandered.Definatly 50mph limit on a motorway.

Changed the ALL IMPORTANT tyre pressures to 30 front & 34 rear. Like a completly different car, handling in my opinion is perfect now.
Just goes to show, getting the correct wheels/tyres/offsetts etc dos'nt help the performance and handling if the tyre pressures out or unsuitable,despite what may be reccomended. changeing the wheels from stocks requires a change in tyre pressure.

It's had a good run on the M1 today  and a 'Cj spin' on a quiet of the beaten track round-a-bout, there  was no rear end loss whatsoever.Perfect hold!
These tyres are new and i wonder with the correct setup etc...if the talk on running in tyres is nessesary.People talk of slippy tyres because their new??? Mine are not slippery. If alls setup ok, i can't see why any new tyre would be slippy. unless they are a poor quality tyre or tyre pressures wrong.

Cj
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: ChrisGB on November 25, 2008, 18:44
Quote from: "Cj"Rears 225/35/17 offset 45 (7.5 wheels) Yokohama SDrives on Team Dynamics 1.2 Pro Racers
Fronts 205/45/16 offset 38(7.0 /)

Lowered 30mm TTE.

Tyre pressure was initially set as 26 front & 32 rear and drove horendous! Tramlined.wandered.Definatly 50mph limit on a motorway.

Changed the ALL IMPORTANT tyre pressures to 30 front & 34 rear. Like a completly different car, handling in my opinion is perfect now.
Just goes to show, getting the correct wheels/tyres/offsetts etc dos'nt help the performance and handling if the tyre pressures out or unsuitable,despite what may be reccomended. changeing the wheels from stocks requires a change in tyre pressure.


My guess is that the wider tyre combined with lower profile (as a result of 16" rim at front, combined with increased camber on the unloaded suspension (as a result of the 30mm drop) has made the inner edges of the contact patch bear most drag. This increases tramlining as the drag acts inboard of the steering axis and castor is applying increased load into the steering arms as the front end tries to pigeon toe. As the road undulates, this translates to pulling at the steering as road surface imperfections tug at each side differently. Increasing the tyre pressures reduces the contact patch width, moving the drag nearer the steering axis and alleviates the problem, but also loses contact patch area. Generally, wider tyres need less pressure for a given vehicle if contact patch area / shape are to be increased / retained respectively.

Chris
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Innocent on January 23, 2009, 17:07
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan 043's 205/50/15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan 043's 185/55/15

Supplier: Event mobile tyres
Cost: ~£300

Suspension mods: None

Comments:

1st Comment is on Event Mobile Tyres - order on line and they'll be round to your house or at the track the next morning anywhere in the UK for full fit and balance. Great company!
Tyres in the summer - awesome!! So much grip that on a dry warm day it can be difficult to get the rears to break traction from a standing start (completely standard 138bhp). Cornering is superb. Have used them on a number of sprint and autocross days this year and the tyres perform perfectly on both low speed slalom precision and 100mph out sphincter clenching corners. Even on a warm but wet day you can have lots of sideways fun without ever feeling out of control.
Tyres in the winter - terrible!! The soft compound tightens up so much in the cold that even in dry weather you're going to understeer through every corner. Lift off to correct the understeer and the back steps out so quickly you spin before you know whats happened. Get on the brakes too late and the back fishtails like you're on ice.

Verdict:
Much cheaper than cut slicks, but will have similar grip if you're on standard power. Unbelievably good all through the summer, but get some good winter tyres as soon as the nights draw in or you might be loosing your no claims bonus! Oh, and they only lasted 10k miles (though one 32 degrees C autocross day took off about 3mm).
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: fstsven on April 1, 2009, 12:56
Year of roadster: 2004

Front wheels: OEM 15" 6J
Front tyres: TOYO Proxes R1-R 205/50/15
Rear wheels: OEM 16" 7J
Rear tyres: TOYO Proxes R1-R 225/45/16

To make everything as clear as possible I'll split comments up according to conditions.
-warm (+10 degrees), dry: These tyres were obviously made for these conditions. After just one or two kms of decent driving they are up to operating temperature and then they grip, grip, grip. Give loads of confidence and very strong braking.
-cold (-10 degrees), dry: Difficult if not impossible to warm up, less grip but not dangerously so. Let's say comparable to any decent sport summer tyre.
-warm, wet: After warming them up for a bit, very good grip; better or at least equal to T1-R's (very good wet tyre).
-cold, wet: Considerably less grip than T1-R; quite snappy break-away.
-very heavy rain: grip according to temperature, but be careful with deep standing water: aquaplaning quite soon, though obviously better than R888, A-048 and the like.

In all circumstances they are a bit noisier than a road tyre; sidewalls are stiff enough for steering precision and communication, but not as stiff as to make the ride uncomfortable.

Conclusion: A great tyre. Semi-slick-like dry warm performance; confidence-inspiring in the rain, but they don't like cold temperatures. For me, the perfect tyre! Though I do think that for some people the T1-R might be a better compromise between all-weather ability and tyre-life (R1-R has a projected lifespan of roughly half of that of T1-R; treadwear 140 vs. 280).
Important note: Toyo say you can't drive these tyres in freezing ( below 0 ) temperatures because a)they don't grip and b) the compound loses its flexibility, leading to cracks in the rubber.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on May 14, 2009, 10:34
New to the forum, and have been reading everyone's reviews with interest....thought I'd add my feelings about my MR2.

Front wheels: Standard 15's
Front tyres: TOYO Proxes T1-R - 205/50/15
Rear wheels: Standard 16's
Rear tyres: TOYO Proxes T1-R - 225/45/16

Bought my 53 plate SMT MR2 at the end of January, didn't start driving until after all the snow that stopped the UK. The front set of tyres I haven't changed yet, and there is a great deal of driving still left in them. However, the rear tyres are another matter.

When I purchased the car there were a set of Nexen's on the back, and with a great deal of tread in them I had no idea how they'd perform (I didn't have to change the tyres on my old car once...having had it 2 years, good little Renault). So, to set the scene, I commute to work everyday, and soak up 60 miles of A-road driving. After 2k the Nexens were virtually bare! To tell the truth, I had to wait for a few days for my new rear set of Toyo's to be ordered, and driving in the rain with legal limit tyres was an experience I don't want to relive! (I even got my wheel alignment checked because of the wear, think I'll certainly be getting all alignments checked before the next set)

So, now it's 2.5k later since my Toyo's and they're already down to 3mm. Although the majority of that has been excellent driving compared to the Nexen's. The car has been more responsive through cornering, and the noise was considerably reduced along the dual carriageways. However, the wear issue is one that I can't overlook, even with my regular pressure checks the tyres are not lasting. I definately understand that they are just to soft for all the regular driving I do.

Considering at the moment whether to fork out for a set of RE040's, or get a pair of KU31's.

Anyone else had such dire wear on their tyres?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: t-bone on May 21, 2009, 21:57
Quote from: "rinoa000"New to the forum, and have been reading everyone's reviews with interest....thought I'd add my feelings about my MR2.

Front wheels: Standard 15's
Front tyres: TOYO Proxes T1-R - 205/50/15
Rear wheels: Standard 16's
Rear tyres: TOYO Proxes T1-R - 225/45/16

 After 2k the Nexens were virtually bare!

So, now it's 2.5k later since my Toyo's and they're already down to 3mm.

Anyone else had such dire wear on their tyres?

This is not a tire (sorry tyre) issue it is an alignment suspension issue. I currently have a set of T1-Rs (185-55-15/215-40-16) that are near 20K with as much wear as you speak of. what you are seeing is not normal and suggests other troubles.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on July 29, 2009, 13:14
Year of Roadster: 2006 TF300

Front Wheels: 6J x 15" (OEM Toyota)
Front Tyres: Stock Yokohama Advan A043 185/55/15
Rear wheels: 7J x16" (OEM Toyota)
Rear Tyres: Stock Yokohama Advan A043 215/45/16

Supplier: Supplied with car from new
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: None  

I've been looking into which tyres to replace my worn out stock Yoko's. The rear tyres have worn evenly down to the legal limit in just under 23k miles, but the fronts have worn excessively on the inner shoulders   s:shock: :shock: s:shock:   The cause of this is the excessive out-of spec toe in conjunction with the negative in-spec camber on the front. I've therefore agreed for my local dealer to pick up the bill for four wheel aligment ajustment once I've replaced the rubber all round. Reading the various posts it would seem the TOYO T1-Rs are the all round tyre to go for. The Hankooks RS-2s also come highly recommended, albeit more expensive than the TOYOs, so I'm stuck between the two. It seems the wear rates are about the same so the TOYOs win outright on price. My biggest concern though is the lateral stiffness of the sidewall and this is where the Hankook RS-2s come into their own. I'm very much into high corner speed and quick turn in capability which are synonimous with the MR2 which I don't want to compromise. The style of the T1-Rs is sporty and the tread pattern is reminiscent of the Uniroyal rain sport 2 tyre, which if the reviews are anything to go by are the best tyre in the wet. The Uniroyals were my tyre of choice based on the rave reviews, but apparently they're not a good combination with the MR2. I'll update my post with a verdict once I've decided on which tyres and done some mileage on them   s:? :? s:?  

Something I've noticed from reading the posts due to tyre size availability and in some instances price, there's been a need to change tyre sizes. Although I'm sure the majority of cases people are aware of the implications and considerations required with tyre sizing, for those of you who are new to it, here are some tips I've been given by a wheels & tyres tech specialist:

1) Check the tyre size is compatible with the wheel rim size, e.g. 185/55/15 will fit wheel sizes 5J:5.5J:6J:6.5J
2) Check the tyre load rating (numerical index) and speed rating (alphabetical index) is equivalent or higher than the stock tyre, e.g. 81V
3) Check the rolling circumference is within 4% of the stock wheel & tyre combination otherwise the speedometer will be out of calibration. This is done by a theoretical calculation using the tyre overall design diameter. For example 185/55/15 tyre is 585 dia x 3.05 = 1784.25. The 195/50/15 is 577 x 3.05 = 1759.85. Therefore the difference in rolling circumference is -1.39% meaning rolling circumference on the wider lower profile tyre is less than the stock wheel & tyre.

I would suggest any reputable tyre fitting outfit will be able to advise on this. Alternatively I have the wheel & tyres specs if anybody has any special requests.

I decided on the Toyo T1R's in the end and I've run a few miles on new front tyres only, with the original Yoko's on the rear (LHR only on the legal limit) and so far so good. I'm running the extra 4 psi as recommended with the Toyo's and the wet & dry grip is superior. I'm not seeing any adverse effect with different tyres front to rear, as many have suggested is a concern on the MR2. Turn in is only very slightly blunted equating to a slight increase in understeer when cornering at speed, but overall the tyre is well matched to the much more expensive Yoko's. Both this and the neglible difference in turn in/understeer maybe down to having the later spec MR2 with the bigger wheels and wider tyres on the rear and revised steering with needle roller bearings. So for £52 each all incl for the fronts compared to £86 for the Yoko ADVANS I'm very happy   s:bounce: :bounce: s:bounce:

P.S. Getting four wheel alignment and adjustment done this afternoon, so might see improvment over this.  s:) :) s:)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ChrisGB on October 29, 2009, 02:14
Year of Roadster: 2003

Wheels stock 2003 15/16"

Front: Toyo R888 195/50R15 Compound GG (Medium Hard)

Rear Toyo R888 225/45R16 Compound GG (Medium Hard)

Price £370+ shipping and fitting (Camskill)

Suspension:

Front: BC Racing coilovers, spring rate 4Kg/mm (just over twice as stiff as stock)

Rear: BC Racing coilovers, spring rate 6Kg/mm (just over twice as stiff as stock)

Front toe 0 deg

Rear toe 0 deg

Front camber –1.5 deg

Rear camber –2 deg

ARBs / droplinks stock.

Chassis Corky stage 3 minus the rear strut brace.

Pressures (cold for road use):

Front 24.5 psi

Rear 29.5 psi.

Comments:

Fitting showed these to have stiff sidewalls, even though they were stored in the warm ( a precaution advised by Toyo) before fitting. Front N/S showed a little lift on fitting. Will check to see if it settles down with use.

First impressions: Sidewall is very stiff and low speed ride is quite jiggly. On the other hand, the stiff construction means less bounce, so these actually give the damping less work in secondary ride terms and although firmer than the RS-2, the ride is preferable in conjunction with the BC coilovers. The tyres seem to pick up every particle of grit and spit it at the wheel arch liners. Mould release takes a short while to wear off but grip is very good from new.

Bedded in:

Steering accuracy is extremely high. The cars response to steering input has never been as immediate as it is on these tyres. Also, there is absolutely no need to "over input and settle back" to get a hard turn in. Similarly at the rear end, the tyres settle into the required slip angle instantly, no slop, no delays. Throttle input is met with instant and consistent change in the cars attitude.

These tyres seem to work at a quite shallow slip angle, feels less than 5 deg. Turning in and getting back on the power, it seems that they can be pushed out to a certain angle, then they seem to dig in really hard and all throttle is translated to forward motion from here inward. Interestingly, roll seems to be reduced, possibly because of the narrow slip angle. On the downside, this translates to less tolerance to lifting off mid corner where the fronts dig in much harder. I feel that roll induced oversteer would be inevitable in this situation if going very quickly.

Communication is very strong and very tidy. With no soft sidewall to corrupt the information through the wheel and the seat of the pants, it is very easy to feel exactly how the cars balance is responding to the inputs being made. Push really hard and you seem to come up against a wall of grip. Being stiff in the construction, there is no rolling of the sidewalls to warn of imminent slip, but when they do let go, there is a manageable loss of grip which is not too tricky to catch if you are quick with the correction. I would say recovery of a small slide is easier than on the stock 040s, the breakaway being less snappy (with them at warm road temperature anyway, maybe more tricky at track temperature levels).

Getting them hot takes some pretty committed driving. I have driven them at 12 deg C and 15 deg C ambient temperatures and they are fine cold. Once pushed for a few minutes, they seem to develop very strong grip. They cool off quite quickly too, but grip does not suffer to an unacceptable degree for road use.

So grip then? Bonkers. Corner speed is up a long way on the Hankook RS-2 which where a fair bit quicker than the 040. I would say that the RS-2 allowed maybe a 5% improvement over the 040. The R888 offers something near to a 15 – 20% improvement over the RS-2. Part of this is from raw grip, part of it from the level of feedback and security the R888 produces, part from the lower slip angle feeling like it is creating less roll at the rear. Braking is something else. I am just starting to explore these tyres, but I am aware that I need to re calibrate my expectations when it comes to driving quickly on them.

I have only tried them once on a wet road (12 deg C) and they gave very positive feel with strong grip and pretty easy to manage breakaway. Standing water is an issue for these tyres even when new though. It is OK, but where the puddles are, take it slowly.

Would I recommend them? Well, for the experienced driver, I think they are good tyres. However, for the less experienced there are caveats. The increased grip level is nice, but it takes the car into MUCH bigger cornering forces than road tyres. Because of this, for example, I find that if I go into a bend quickly enough, roll builds up and the rear of the car seems to need throttle commitment to flatten the rear springs a little to avoid a spin, almost early 911 like. So more demanding of the driver, with much more requirement for planning if you are going to use the grip properly. Also, you don't get a warning of them letting go. You know when you have overstepped the mark because you feel the grip drop off and the scenery rotates more quickly  s:shock: :shock: s:shock:  

Remember all comments above relate to my stiffly shelled and sprung car. Stock or softer setups will behave differently.

Pros:

Huge grip

Very consistent / accurate / fast response to inputs

Very good feel / feedback / communication

Cons:

Stiff ride

Tyre noise / drone at cruising speeds

Poor standing water performance

Complete removal of the understeer safety net

Not easy to read near limit

High wear rate

A feeling that you could use an extra 100bhp

EDIT: That last line meant going out and getting turbo'd. With the new power lever circa 200bhp and lb/ft at the wheels, the car was very throttle steerable but also very easy to get sideways. In an attempt to make this behaviour exploitable and make things more stable under power in bends, I have added 10 minutes of toe in each side (total 20 mins) at the rear. This makes it easier to get heat into the rears and also keeps it well tied down under power. On the downside, the car feels a little less eager to turn in and rear tyre wear may be much more of an issue. Will update if I change things again.

Chris
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Jaik on November 9, 2009, 17:29
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 195/50R15

Supplier: mytyres.co.uk
Cost: £172.40

Suspension mods: BC Racing coilovers (4kg/mm front, 6kg/mm rear springs), Che anti-roll bars, Corky breast plate
Comments:

Initial impressions: Running at stock pressures (26/32 PSI), the cold weather grip seems better than the Hankook RS-2s even with 0 miles on them, they feel very planted. The front sidewalls seem quite soft so they will probably need higher pressures, the rears might be fine as they are, they are rated for higher loads and speeds (89W) than the fronts (82V) and the sidewalls felt noticeably stiffer when off the car. Hopefully this will bring back some of the pointiness that is missing compared to the Bridgestones and RS-2s.

I'll wait until they've got some more miles on them and I've tested them properly before I say much more.

Update 20th Nov '09: I've not played with the pressures yet and the front's are still feeling a little soft, but I've had a chance to take the car for a proper run. The grip from cold is fantastic in both wet and dry conditions, and stays around the same level as the tyres warm up. They can't match the RS-2's warm grip, but they're more consistent. Whatever the weather, when the grip does start to run out there's a lot of notice give and plenty of progression, but it does vary somewhat depending on how much heat the tyres have in. So far I'd say these are great all-weather tyres and they seem to be eating up whatever I throw at them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: NorthandSouth on December 7, 2009, 18:34
Year of Roadster 2004

Under recommendation of Jaik I purchased

Rear Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 225/45R16
Front Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 195/50R15

Supplier: mytyres.co.uk
Price: £162.00 with 8% anniversary discount

Was not enjoying driving the car as the car did not feel like it was holding the road as it used to.

NOW....wow what a difference, like Jaik says above the car definitely feels more planted and I am so much more comfortable driving the car again even through I am still being careful as the tyres were only fitted last week so are still bedding in.

Definitely would recommend these.

Lynne
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on December 15, 2009, 15:47
Year of Car:  56 plate Lotus Elise


Tyres: Yokahama AD07s
          Yokohama AD48s

Comments:

AD07s
Very good tyre, nice grip in the wet and excellent in the dry.  Only down side is they don't last long.  8k on a set of rears and its down to the wear bands.

AD48s,
 Amazing level of grip in the dry, they get a little bit lairy in the wet and in standing water they are totally pants.  Lasted about 5 -6K before being needed to be replaced.  

NOTE:  I have a very aggressive geo set up on mine so perhaps the wear is down to that rather than just the tyre wearing out quick.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Two's Company on January 5, 2010, 10:01
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: 6.5"x16" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Toyo T1-R 215/40/16
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Toyo T1-R 195/50/15

Supplier: Camskill
Cost: £180
Suspension mods: Tein springs, corky, TRD front strut brace.
Comments:

Softer sidewalls than the stock RE040 brigestones the car came with which can be partially combatted by increasing the tyre pressures to 28/34 psi.  Better in the wet than the bridgestones.  They last well with my mainly motorway driving, I got 25k miles from my last set of rears and about 51k from the fronts   s:shock: :shock: s:shock:  .  They don't tramline as much as the Bridgies. Found out this winter that they are awful in the snow as they become slicks when the tread gets compacted with snow but sure this would be the same on any tyre.

Verdict:

Great value tyres unless you can justify more than double the cost for a set of Advan Neovas.  I would get the Advans if I did less motorway miles.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on January 5, 2010, 14:08
Quote from: "ChrisGB"
Quote from: "Tem"Anyone have anything to say about the Kumho KU31 or KU15 on the '2?

I have only run the KU31 on my tuition car, a Skoda Fabia vRS with a 190bhp / 280lb/ft remap. They were 205/45R16 87W with reinforced sidewalls.

Grip was good (as good, if not  a little better than the Toyo T1R I run now in the dry) but they were much less progressive once they let go. The Toyos are better for wet grip and traction.

I have only spoken to one guy who ran KU15s (on a front driver) and he reckoned not particularly good in the dry and very slippery in the wet.

Chris

Year of Roadster: 2004

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: KUMHO KU31 ECSTA SPORT KU 31 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: KUMHO KU31 ECSTA SPORT KU 31 195/50R15

Supplier: Camskill
Cost: £188.20 (inc delivery)

I have literally just had a set of KUMHO KU31 ECSTA SPORT KU 31 fitted.

I'll add to the report as they bed in, but my first impressions upon receiving the tyres (and giving them a good feel) is that the side walls are pretty thin. Now they're on the car they flex quite a bit compared to RE040s and I can see them needing to be run about 3psi higher than stock.

I was going to get some Maragonis, but found out from Century Motorsport that they have discontinued the 225/45 R16 size (mytyres still have lots in stock, but none at Camskill and etyres). I didn't want to buy a tyre that might not be available in the future - hence the Khumos.

I've got a nasty feeling that these are going to be poor compared to the RE040s - which I would have bought if they weren't bloody discontinued as well!

Watch this space  s:) :) s:)

EDIT:
Quote from: "Twos Company"I would get the Advans if I did less motorway miles.

+1 !!!!!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on January 22, 2010, 21:43
KUMHO KU31 ECSTA SPORT Update:

I've put about 1000 miles on the tyres now - most of these hooning around on Cornwall's b roads whilst on holiday this week. I feel they're nicely bed in now and I've had the chance to drive in very heavy rain, wet, damp and dry roads at all speeds [<80mph]. I kept the pressures at 29/35psi, but I think the rears could take even more. Another observation is that the RR of the rears is ever so slightly bigger than stock (215/45 R16) which over-gears the car a touch more than it is already - 225/40 is probably the better size.

My overall rating so far is 3/5.

The one thing these tyres do not lack in any road condition is grip - so do not let any rumours to the contrary put you off buying.
They inspire a lot of confidence. In fact I prefer them in the wet to the dry.
Road noise is low.
They traimline a fair bit.
They deal with standing water very well.
The side walls are too soft - this softens turn-in due to the rear of the car not reacting as quickly as with RE040s. Also, there is a delay to the front sidewalls loading up which causes a strange springy feel from the steering when cornering fast on dry roads.

These tyres are a good budget option, with excellent grip in wet and dry, but their soft side walls do not suit the MR2's chassis nearly as well as RE040s (or other stiff alternatives).
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Anonymous on April 26, 2010, 14:43
Front:
Team Dynamics ProRace 1.2 17" x 7
Toyo Proxes 205/40

Rear
Team Dynamics ProRace 1.2 17" x 8
Toyo Proxes 245/35

Eibach  Pro Lowering Springs previously installed

Fitted by Demon Tweeks 2 days ago.
Cost - under £1000, just.

Not had much chance to push them yet, but feels much steadier; especially around bends and pulling out of junctions.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: anthony82 on July 30, 2010, 07:33
Year of Roadster; 2001

Tyres; Toyo Proxes T1-R

Rear; 205/50/15 (6.5"x15" - OEM alloy wheels)
Front; 185/55/15 (6.0"x15" - OEM alloy wheels)

Supplier; Blackcicrles

Cost £248.60 fitted and balanced for all 4 corners

Suspension modifications; None

Comments

Had the car just over a year, it was fitted with Michelin Energy on the front and some low cost Admiral tyre on rear (dealer fitted to pass MOT). I had a lot of fun in the wet and dry and put my skid pan training day experience to good use with these tyres, but when I nearly aquaplaned into a hedge at low speed I decided that it was time to get some decent tyres.

The toyo's seemed to get good general feedback and were in my budget so ordered via Blackcircles - all fitted etc ok, but my only feedback is that blackcircles usually partner with an independant garage who are ok but twice now I have had to return to get the balancing re done on two seperate vehicles. I would prefer to use a dedicated local tyre fitter as they have better equipment for checking wheel balancing and alignment - but on this occassion they couldn't source the rear Toyo's for 3 months!

The car feels much more planted to the road, but I do miss the squeals through the bends when giving it some gas in 2nd! Not driven in the wet yet, but hope they provide much more confidence.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: cclarke99 on December 30, 2010, 23:47
Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: Standard
Rear Tyres: Toyo TR-1 205/50/15
Front Wheels: Standard
Front Tyres: Standard Bridgestone Potenza RE040 185/55/15 (fairly worn)

Supplier: Blackcircles via Lepsons when i had my wheels done
Cost: very approx £100 for two

Comment
Firstly apologies for running mixed front/rear tyres, but i couldn't bear to throw away the fronts with 9 months life in them. I wasn't very happy with the TR-1s, which i only bought because the RE040s were discontinued. They had plenty of grip both wet and dry (more then the RE040s) but there seemed too much "flex" either in the sidewall or the tread. Once the tyre was loaded, it was fine so it didn't notice on tight corners, but on long sweeping bends the car never settled properly. Playing with the pressures didn't seem to make much difference. By contrast someone with a Ford Puma said exactly the opposite after fitting TR-1s, much more direct feel with less slack on turn-in. As said elsewhere, things got better over the first 500 miles and either I've got used to it or it's better again now they're nearly worn out. And wear is the main problem - although they're not down to the limit theres so little tread left after less than 5k miles that now the front RE-040s are finished, i might as well try 4 of the same, will go for Continental Premium Contact 2 this time based on good reports here and in the Evo tyre test. Although the Toyos are half the price of the RE040s, they actually cost me 50% more per mile.

Verdict
Good grip, but too much "flex" (or is it just me or the front/rear mixture), and extremely very poor wear rate
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: ChrisGB on January 10, 2011, 19:04
[MOD]Split off the discussion on tyre prices and size recommendations as this is a tyre review thread. Posts are now in performance related forum under the title "Tyre question"[MOD]
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: scipio on April 18, 2011, 18:23
Quote from: "mattcambs"KUMHO KU31 ECSTA SPORT Update:
The side walls are too soft - this softens turn-in due to the rear of the car not reacting as quickly as with RE040s. Also, there is a delay to the front sidewalls loading up which causes a strange springy feel from the steering when cornering fast on dry roads.
These tyres are a good budget option, with excellent grip in wet and dry, but their soft side walls do not suit the MR2's chassis nearly as well as RE040s (or other stiff alternatives).

2001 Model - standard rims all round
Rear - KUMHO ECSTA 225/50/15
Front - Bridgestone Touranza 185/50/15
interestingly, front and rear rims are the same size - size 6. Widest tyre it'll take is a 225.
Cost per tyre R960.00 approx BPS80?

Had Bridgestone Potenza's on the rear (205/45/15 - unbelievable handling and roadholding) but they did not last 15k km's.
Decided to go wider and bigger for more rubber, to get some proper mileage - FAIL!
The car handles exactly as mattcambs describes - does not instill a lot of confidence!
I realise that part of my problem is the non-matching set of tyres but the rears definitely feel too soft and I've got them at 2.5 bar (36,25 psi)....going into a corner you first have to sort of throw the weight over and then start cornering...the arse feels woozy.  s:shock: :shock: s:shock:

UPDATE
I have, in time, got used to the setup...that was 40k km's ago and there are still many thousands left in those tyres...on the one hand not the best set-up but on the other, I have achieved what I wanted...higher mileage from my tires   s:D :D s:D  . I think 40k is pretty good considering one tends to DRIVE it more than the average car.
Next time -  215 rear 195 front - Kumho's all round.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: cclarke99 on April 19, 2011, 08:51
Rear wheels: Standard
Rear Tyres: Conti Sport Contact 2 205/50/15
Front Wheels: Standard
Front Tyres: Conti Sport Contact 2 185/55/15

Cost about £350 from local guy who does all my work

In my previous post I praised the Bridgestones and if they were still available I would have bought the same. But I have to say, these are a much better all round tyre. Not quite as sharp in the turn-in, but in all other respects better, more grip, more progressive and much more stable on poor road surfaces or at high speeds. Not cheap, but deserve the good reviews they receive and a significant improvement over the Bridgestones.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Wabbitkilla on April 20, 2011, 14:47
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: 7"x17" ET37 Oz Ultraleggera SR
Rear Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 215x40x17 26psi
Front Wheels: 7"x16" ET37 Oz Ultraleggera SR
Front Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 195x40x16 34psi

Supplier: MyTyres (I know I said I'd never use them again but their service these days is excellent)
Cost: £240ish (sorry it's been a while)
Suspension mods: BC Racing Coilovers, Megan Racing rear Arms, Whiteling Droplinks, Cusco Uprated ARBs, Strut Tower braces from Cusco (Front), and C-One (Rear), TRD Copy front Member Brace, Corky Breastplate.

Comments:
I've had these on for about 5 months so I can now give some opinions based on miles covered while the car has worn them. They appear quite different to anything else you've seen with the tread extending part the way up the sidewall. Kind of like the car wearing Nikes   s:lol: :lol: s:lol:  The tread is made up of wide "sweeps" running across the width of the tyre which are pushed forwards towards the centre of the tyre. This results in a large contiguous contact area which should be excellent in dry warm conditions. I am very happy with them and will likely replace like for like if they're available. In these sizes they are XL tyres meaning the side walls are reinforced and therefore nice and stiff. The sizes give a slightly larger rolling diameter on the rear, around 3%, compared to the standard 215x45x16 sized Potenzas. The sizes are also the narrowest and widest recommended for 7" rims by all the manufacturers specs and look a little stretched on the front ... but it's nothing serious to worry about. ET37 isn't a problem and fills out the arches nicely, the car handles as if it is a little wider (which it will be relative to the standard ET45 offset). So it feels a bit more stable in side-side action ... in my opinion obviously. However ET37 makes U-turns a little more demanding, you need a bigger turning circle ever-so-slightly, so beware, if that matters.

Dry weather : Warm up nicely quick and then stick to the road by suction, you get a large amount of contact area due to the chunky tread. You can drop gear into a corner and drive through it feeling the tyres pulling you into the bend. They handle fast driving very well without fade or slippage and seem to shed heat well. Stopping is equally impressive and controllable.

Wet Weather: They don't feel quite as sure footed as the Toyo T1R's in the wet, I thing the Toyo is better designed for dispersing water in the way it ploughs through with the sharp pattern. However if it's just damp once warmed a little they grip very well, it's only in the really wet conditions they show up any weakness. In my opinion they fall above the potenzas but below the Toyos and GSD3's I've had on the same car with same suspension. I feel that it's very livable with and the dry grip is so far ahead of the others they're well worth the money as an alternative.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Anonymous on October 29, 2011, 06:31
Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 225/40/16
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R 195/50/15

Yep Toyo's for me too,I put facelift 16" rear rear wheels on mine and covered them with these at a cost of around £250 fitted.I think I got the fronts from Camskill and rears from Mytyres and a local fitter to fit them,I have them at 26 psi fronts and 36psi rears and they have performed faultlessly in the couple of years they have been on.Wet weather driving was my worry and with these I can't even get the back to step out properly even when I try,in dry weather running it sticks really well and they perform beyond what I would expect from a budget priced tyre.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Spudulike on January 14, 2012, 14:34
Year of Roadster: 2002

Tyres: Toyo Proxes T1-R

Rear: 205/50/15 (6.5"x15" - OEM alloy wheels)
Front: 185/55/15 (6.0"x15" - OEM alloy wheels)

Supplier; Blackcicrles

Cost £290 fitted and balanced for all 4 corners

Suspension modifications; None

Comments:
Another set of Toyo's on mine. Utterly confidence inspiring in wet and dry, they're a soft tyre so they function well even on a frosty morning. 28psi front and 36psi rear seems perfect for me. They do squirm a bit due to the softer sidewalls but once you get used to the feeling of the car settling into a corner then you don't even notice it.
Way more performance than you ought to expect given the price and having read other's reviews they seem like a perfect match for the MR2.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Lippy on February 19, 2012, 20:29
I have Toyo T1R's all round, they were on the car when I got it with plenty of tread, I have OEM wheels for facelift car but I find them pretty poor tbh asides from what everyone else says.

I have 225/45/16 on rear and
195/50/15 on the front

Underbody brace is fitted and TTE lowering springs

I really want some 17" rears which can have 245 width tyres on and 15" on the front with some 205's really in Parada spec 2's rubber, Im sure this will cause rubbing issues without changing the ET or adding spacers though  s:( :( s:(
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ChrisGB on March 29, 2012, 01:13
Well another set of R888 just went on (195/50R15 F 225/45R16 R). The last set proved themselves to be excellent in most conditions, I only drove them in snow once, for a laugh, and it was funny, but not the sort of thing you would do if you had a journey you actually had to complete. In standing water, the usual caveats apply, especially when the tread is down near 3mm. As the tyres wore down, the grip level reduced a little, they stayed spectacularly good to the end though. Common web myths about them not working in low temperatures are just wrong. Running at 3 figure speeds through shallow melt water, running quickly where snow still inhabited the middle of the lane, running quickly in near freezing wet conditions generally proved  that they still grip at least as hard as normal tyres when the weather is poor.

A change in geometry increased wear a fair bit (as did adding a turbo and 10psi of boost  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:  ) so this time I have gone for a slightly increased toe. Current setup is 10 Minutes toe in on the front and 24 Minutes toe in on the rear. This seems to offer quicker turn in and holds on well mid corner, allowing early throttle. On the downside, the front toe in seems to have introduced a little high speed bump steer.

See previous review for more details.

Fookin expensive this time out though. Over £600 including fitting  s:shock: :shock: s:shock:   But worth it for the fun they allow.

Chris
Title: Re: Toyo Proxy - The Emperors New Clothes ???
Post by: Emleytvr on July 8, 2012, 23:16
2003 (53) Roadster, standard

Front Tyres: Toyo Proxy 195/50/15
RearTyres: Toyo Proxy 225/45/16

Supplier: Camskill (superb service)

Not had the car very long.
It was on mixed tyres, Infinity on rear, Hero Millanza on the front.
Despite it handling really well, they did not inspire confidence in the wet.
Everyone on here suggests mixed tyres might be a sure way to end up in a ditch, so I ditched the tyres.

Went for Toyo's after reading the mostly good reviews on here and other forums, helped by the incredible value...
Well I have to say I am extremely disappointed, they have destroyed the handling.
Tried all the pressures suggested, but the roll, and lack of feel compared to the ridiculed Millanza's is chronic.
Yes they have more grip, especially in the wet, but completely sacrificing precision.

Is it me ???

Opinions welcome, will a set of RE040's restore my handling ?

If yes does anyone want to buy a set of hardly used "really really good" Toyo's...?  s:flame: :flame: s:flame:
Title: Re: Toyo Proxy - The Emperors New Clothes ???
Post by: Bernie on July 16, 2012, 17:11
Quote from: "Emleytvr"2003 (53) Roadster, standard

Front Tyres: Toyo Proxy 195/50/15
RearTyres: Toyo Proxy 225/45/16

Supplier: Camskill (superb service)

Not had the car very long.
It was on mixed tyres, Infinity on rear, Hero Millanza on the front.
Despite it handling really well, they did not inspire confidence in the wet.
Everyone on here suggests mixed tyres might be a sure way to end up in a ditch, so I ditched the tyres.

Went for Toyo's after reading the mostly good reviews on here and other forums, helped by the incredible value...
Well I have to say I am extremely disappointed, they have destroyed the handling.
Tried all the pressures suggested, but the roll, and lack of feel compared to the ridiculed Millanza's is chronic.
Yes they have more grip, especially in the wet, but completely sacrificing precision.

Is it me ???

Opinions welcome, will a set of RE040's restore my handling ?

If yes does anyone want to buy a set of hardly used "really really good" Toyo's...?  s:flame: :flame: s:flame:


You might want to try a nitrogen fill.

I had a full set put on last month & was told that a nitrogen fill would make a difference, running with 36 psi rear & 28 psi in the front and they are pretty good.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: steve b on July 21, 2012, 23:32
Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Hankook RS-2 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Hankook RS-2 195/50R15

Supplier: ?
Cost: ?

Suspension mods: None
Comments:

On the car when i bought it, they were basically new done under 1000miles.  On road in the dry good grip and nicely progressive.  Poor in the wet.  On track with heat in them good and with heat ok in the wet as well.  I read these are a cheap tyre - I though them perfectly good.  Lasted me 5 track days and about 4000miles.

Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan AD08 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan AD08 195/50R15

Supplier: Black circles
Cost: £450

Suspension mods: None
Comments:

Did 170miles on track yesterday and initial impressions are miles better for track than the Hankook RS2, side wall is much stiffer, grip is higher in wet and dry sill nice and progressive .  Stiff side wall has ruined the ride on road though.  Great road and track tyre so far, please with the purchase.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: charl1ey on August 6, 2012, 04:03
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 7"x17"
Rear Tyres: Wanli S1800 215/40/R17
Front Wheels: 7" x17"
Front Tyres: Wanli S1800 205/40/R17
Supplier: Easy fix Tyres
Cost: £160 rear pair fitted

Suspension mods: BC Coilovers
bracing Mods: FTSB, Mid Underbrace, Front underbrace

Comments:

After 8000k Front pair are like new and have hardly worn at all, Rear passenger side has worn down to advisory and has also developed a slow punture - so its time to replace. They have been a bit twitchy especially giving it some beans out of roundabouts with adverse cambers in a bit of drizzle, they snap back ok, but this was also prior to the bracing and suspension modes - think ive been riding them at too high a Psi anyway. Just want to get something better quality that look racy and serve me well through the winter aswell.

Looking to replace with either:
Falken 452s  Fr. 215/35 R17  Rear 225/35 R17
Toyo T1R's Front 205/40 R17  Rear 215/40 R17
Goodyear F1 GSD3 205/40 R17  Rear 215/40 R17

My query is do I go for a lower profile Falken's (I can deal with the hard ride) for better handling over what reviews suggest are better tyres ie Toyo's or Goodyear but with a higher tyre wall and less contact patch?

Thoughts welcomed

Cheers
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: novacaine on August 15, 2012, 21:59
Year of Roadster: 2000

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08 205/50/15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08 185/55/15

Supplier: Tanvic Tyres Loughborough
Cost: £396 for all four

Suspension mods: None

Comments:

Having had the previous owner's Pirelli P6000s  worn close to the legal limit before a long french road trip I decided to replace all four tyres (BTW P6000 are rubbish on this car, no braking grip at all!)

I went for Yokohama AD08s as I wanted something that gave very good grip but wouldn't throw me off the road at the slightest sign of water

One word : WOW

the grip once scrubbed in is phenomenal, braking performance is exceptional and I have yet to find the limit of grip on cornering (need a trackday to do this safely as there is so much grip)

to put this in context I am a Trackday/race driving instructor so I can pedal
 
wear rate is excellent for this type of tyre, Ive done 2500 miles on them so far and Ive lost about 1.5mm off the 8mm that was there to begin with - not bad at all really
Not so great in standing water and occasionally tramline but nothing drastic or unsettling, and grip in the wet/damp is very good

Verdict:

Mid to high price and worth every damn penny, these tyres are amazing and suit the car really well. Only issue (if you can call it that) is that because of the high grip it will really show up the stock suspension inadequacies with more body roll when cornering hard but with a few choice suspension mods this car will really fly with these tyres!!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Wabbitkilla on August 29, 2012, 13:26
[MOD]Random discussions split off (yeah me too), please try and follow the formate at the beginning of this thread to keep the database meaningful. Anything outside of that use another existing thread or create a new thread if you can't find anything relevant, thank-you[/MOD]
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: steve430 on November 9, 2012, 16:28
hi, im running uniroyals at the moment and im not overly impressed, 185/55/15 on front (uniroyal rainsport)
and 215/45/16 on the back (rainsport 2)
the backs seem fine, a little wiggly when pushed, but that all adds to the fun, but the front seem to have incredibly soft sidewalls. a bit boat like. have increased pressures to 28 as apposed to 26 and have improved a bit but still dull.tryed at 30 but understeered fairly badly.
 back to re040s in the spring i think. despite the tramlining that seems to upset people.

steve
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Wabbitkilla on November 10, 2012, 07:54
Quote from: "Wabbitkilla"Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: 7"x17" ET37 Oz Ultraleggera SR
Rear Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 215x40x17 26psi
Front Wheels: 7"x16" ET37 Oz Ultraleggera SR
Front Tyres: Marangoni Zeta Linea 195x40x16 34psi

Supplier: MyTyres (I know I said I'd never use them again but their service these days is excellent)
Cost: £240ish (sorry it's been a while)
Suspension mods: BC Racing Coilovers, Megan Racing rear Arms, Whiteline Droplinks, Cusco Uprated ARBs, Strut Tower braces from Cusco (Front), and C-One (Rear), TRD Copy front Member Brace, Corky Breastplate.

So about time for an update,

I got a year out of the rear tyres and approx 15000 miles which is actually pretty good for me.
I bought replacements from KwikFit as they were the best price and a nice bunch if guys in Skipton.

Another year on and I haven't done as many miles, the tyres still look fresh.
The front tyres don't appear to be wearing at all and this is not a good thing, it would seem the difference in age of the front -vs- rear is telling on the handling. Getting a lot of tram lining a the front and a general imbalance of cohesion front to back. This gives the sensation that most of the time you are driving on glass and you have to concentrate to avoid swapping ends.

I guess one solution would be to replace all 4 at the same time regardless of front wear, they are after all excellent tyres when new. I have experienced this a little with Toyos but the fronts do wear on those and the effect is not as extreme as the Marangoni's.

So when I change tyres I will be switching back to Toyo T1R of the same sizes of these. I will also be swapping all 4 at the same time in future, costly but necessary to safety and enjoyment IMHO.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Conno11y on November 24, 2012, 14:47
Year of Roadster 2005

Rear Tyres: Toyo Proxes 225/40/16 @ 36psi
Front Tyres: Toyo Proxes 195/50/15 @ 27psi

Price: £240.00 (Mates rates unfortunately)

I have been running these for about 800 miles now and I have to say that the handling has improved dramatically. The tram-lining and underwhelming feeling that I was getting with the Potenzas is all but gone and they have put back some confidence in driving the car how it's meant to be driven.

Thought the slightly Lower profile albeit only very very minor might affect the Speedo but my GPS speed seems to have the same difference as before at least up to 70.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Keith on February 22, 2013, 16:30
Winter tyres

Year of roadster: 2000

Tyres: Michilen Alpin A4 185 60 15 (Winter tyres)

Supplier: ATS

A bit of history first: I generally run Hankook K110's and are very, very  pleased.   Continental Winter tyres on SWMBO BMW 118D and Alpin A4's were fitted to her previous Fabra VRS using 15" rims to give a higher profile.  3rd Jan, BMW arrived and Conti's fitted courtesy of ATS and privately sold the Fabia having had its summer tyres and wheels refitted.

I'd decided that my MR2 really didn't need winter tyres, in addition to the BMW I've got access to a Land Rover Defender.  Anyway the nappy will catch on any depth of snow, so couldn't see the point of winter's on mine.  Wrong; very wrong!  s:oops: :oops: s:oops:  

One week later.  Ledbury, light dusting of snow. Didn't take the Defender (which, great after heavy snow, but on very light snow is also crap (it's still only got 4 tyres in contact with the road – or not, as the case may be).   So, the MR2.  Hankooks handled the snowy up-hill climb very well, trouble was, if it kept snowing the way it was, could I get back down later in the evening?  I wasn't risking it.  I turned around.  Let's just say, odd parked cars one side and cars coming up the other, coming down, there wasn't a great deal of choice – or indeed braking.  Somehow, by not braking, then sliding as appropriate I got down without mishap.

Later that evening.... "Hi darling, you know that you were putting your old winter tyres on Ebay?   How much do you want for them?"

Now I know that 185 60 15's (as we'd fitted to the Fabia) are not standard, but the slight increase in side-wall height would help with road clearance and protect a little from pot-holes.  The narrower rear profile would also help bad weather traction.  ATS, having checked their book,  were happy to fit and the speedo had been over-reading anyway!

The outcome:  absolutely brilliant.  Light snow;  MR2 over the Landy every time – plus, you can have a bit of fun!  Generally handling is a little softer, but not to the point of being squidgy.  Grip, especially in wet,  low temperatures is superb.  More importantly it gives confidence to travel across the country of business, knowing that, assuming the traffic permits, I can get home no matter what the weather.  What's more, when it gets really bad I can get out of the way of those driving on all season or summer tyres.

And extra cost – well, not a lot, really.  Whilst I'm wearing out my winter tyres in temperature they're designed to work in, the summer ones are tucked up, not sliding around, protected from UV with no wear at all!

Just about to pick up a spare set of alloys – they'll be refurbished before the summer tyres go on.  s:D :D s:D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: steve b on August 11, 2013, 18:58
Quote from: "steve b"Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan AD08 225/45R16
Front Wheels: 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan AD08 195/50R15

Supplier: Black circles
Cost: £450

Suspension mods: None
Comments:

Did 170miles on track yesterday and initial impressions are miles better for track than the Hankook RS2, side wall is much stiffer, grip is higher in wet and dry sill nice and progressive .  Stiff side wall has ruined the ride on road though.  Great road and track tyre so far, please with the purchase.

Update, now done 5 track days on these, swapped them on to OZ ultraleggeras that are a bit wider than standard upfront after 3 track days and rotated the fronts at that time, virtually no road miles.  The car handles wonderfully on these, slides really progressively, they grip really well, they don't overheat, stiff side wall is great so little shoulder wear.  I do need to rotate the fronts before the next track day and I think I'll only get one or possibly two more days out of them before they are on the wear indicators so life of about 2500 very hard unforgiving miles, fronts and rears wearing equally and generally evenly, out side fronts get a bit more wear than inside but then that's to be expected when doing circuits so necessary to rotate them.

I will look no further than the updated AD08R when they need to be replaced brilliant tyres, the Elise lot use them loads and find them great as well.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: steve b on September 20, 2013, 19:27
Had the fronts rotated again and just did another day on them.  Illegal now, still gripping and being brilliant though.  Ordered a full set of AD08R's from demon tweaks £411 to replace them.  Hope they are as good as the old AD08's.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: andyhull on September 21, 2013, 09:23
Ok, I need a bit of clarification regards tyres for my 2000 roadster.
I have seen everyone posts regards Toyo's etc and have come to the conclusion they are a summer tyre, or are they good in winter too ?
Anyway, I really need a good set of all year tyres bearing in mind I dont use the car for racing and dont throw it about in any way really. I am a bit of a plodder   s:oops: :oops: s:oops:  
Can someone recomend a decent set of tyres for me plz, the wheels are stock size 15's and have different tyres on all four corners at present
front = 185 x 55r x 15
rear = 205 x 50r x 15
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Joesson on September 21, 2013, 09:44
I replaced the no name tyres on my 2 in July of this year. The old tyres were legal regarding tread depth but the side walls were cracking due to age of tyres.
I read a lot on here, and various tyre reviews on line and manufacturers web sites.
I decided on Fallen ZE914 as these were available in requirred pfl stock sizes and seemed to offer overall performance, longevity and good pricing.
I checked Black  Circle and other fitted prices on the web and then asked my Mr T who supplied, fitted, balanced for £271.66 and included a 4 wheel alignment FOC.
Results in the dry only for me have been fine, it is a summer only car for me but the spec  is good overall including wet weather performance.
Have a look at there web site and the tyre reviews and compare with others.
I'm not disappointed.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ChrisGB on September 22, 2013, 23:48
[MOD]Split off the discussion to a separate thread "Tyre Discussion" on the performance board. This is a thread for tyre reviews, please discuss in a separate thread.[MOD]
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: peteyb on November 11, 2014, 16:10
Year of roadster: 2003

Tyres: 195/45r17 at the front
             215/40r17 at the end
             Toyo Proxies 4
Alloys 17x7 et40 i think

No suspension mods

Running about 28/29psi at the front and about 35psi in the back, had them on around 1500miles now, and they defiantly got some grip to them!! Reasonably quiet on the road, being proxes4s they hav more channels to guide water out, so for me, the wet grip is awesome, cant say ive even had it slip yet, i sure it will some day  s;) ;) s;)  only gripe, slightly squidgy sidewalls, but once your used to it, it wont phase u to much, cant say about life time on them, they dont even look worn yet  s:) :) s:)  would i recommand them, yes i would  s:) :) s:)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: stupink on November 11, 2014, 19:06
Year of Roadster: 2001

Rear wheels: 7"x16"
Rear Tyres: yokohama AD08R 225/45/16
Front Wheels: 7" x 16"
Front Tyres: Yokohama AD08R 205/45/16

Supplier:Blackcircles
Cost: £402

Suspension mods: KYB shocks, -40mm springs, underbody braces.

Comments:
Dry = Sweet jesus.
Wet + cold= kinda like a budget tyre in the dry(nankangs etc)
Wet+hot tyres(ie been driving 15mins or more) = better than a good typical tyre in the dry ie Proxies etc.

Verdict:
Never buying any other tyre ever again.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ElliottTennis on December 28, 2014, 14:43
Recently fitted Bridgestone Adreniline all round 205,55,15 rear and 195 50 15 front.

I couldn't track down a 185 fronts however the size in the front does have as close to the correct rolling radius possible.

The difference between these and my old tyres which the far came on is incredible. I had Marshall cheapy tyres on and these are 100% better. £260 for 4 from top tred tyres sheffield
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: no1trancefan on January 8, 2015, 11:03
hi are the adreniline a good subsitute for the standard potenzas that were on the 2? might get a set of those myself seem quite cheap my last potenzas were hard to get the originals that were on the car again, was about 450 fitted, few years ago though,

just to confirm these are ADRENALIN RE002?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ptennisnet on January 9, 2015, 12:56
Car: 2002

Front tyres:  Maxxis MA-AS 185/55 R15 86V XL (AS)
Rear tyres:  Maxxis MA-AS 205/50 R15 89V XL (AS)

Supplier: Mytyres

Cost: £221.2 + fitting at local fitters.

I was a bit dubious as I've never used budget type brands before but these were the only V-rated M+S tyres I could find and I figured they'd be better in the cold and snow than summer tyres.  I've been running them for about 3 weeks now and I'm surprised at how good they are, once the front pressures were reduced to 26psi (fitter left them at 32psi and it was a bit understeery to say the least).
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ElliottTennis on February 25, 2015, 14:39
Quote from: "no1trancefan"hi are the adreniline a good subsitute for the standard potenzas that were on the 2? might get a set of those myself seem quite cheap my last potenzas were hard to get the originals that were on the car again, was about 450 fitted, few years ago though,

just to confirm these are ADRENALIN RE002?


So sorry for the lazy reply!! Yes re002 super tyres had them on a while now and all round great performance, esp on hard acceleration with budget tyres I could wheel very easily now however it hooks up really nicely.

Re002 highly recommended
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Shaw on February 28, 2015, 20:39
Quote from: "ptennisnet"Car: 2002

Front tyres:  Maxxis MA-AS 185/55 R15 86V XL (AS)
Rear tyres:  Maxxis MA-AS 205/50 R15 89V XL (AS)

Supplier: Mytyres

Cost: £221.2 + fitting at local fitters.

I was a bit dubious as I've never used budget type brands before but these were the only V-rated M+S tyres I could find and I figured they'd be better in the cold and snow than summer tyres.  I've been running them for about 3 weeks now and I'm surprised at how good they are, once the front pressures were reduced to 26psi (fitter left them at 32psi and it was a bit understeery to say the least).

Be careful. These tyres are no longer produced. I ordered some for fitting at a local halfrauds to arrive and be greeted with their 'equivelant' tyre, (with a wet grip reading of E). Needless to say I got a refund.
Title: Re: UniRoyal Rainsport 3
Post by: tricky1138 on October 16, 2015, 15:06
Quote from: "JoshuaBatson"These tyres are amazing i have never had an issue and they grip just as well in the wet as the dry  however i am now 900 miles into the set and have a big issue , i got a puncture and put my spare on however this tyre seems to be ridiculous to get hold off, no one in the Luton/Bedfordshire area can get one in less then 3 days , be warned , maybe even buy 6 a spare for each front and back , but now i am stuck without a car because i purchased these tyres....
Josh

I have to say I really was looking at getting these tyres but I will have to see availability when I come round to replacing mine.

Glad to hear there were good, and hope availability improves.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: HFB on March 2, 2016, 09:29
Just fitted to my PFL MR2

AD08R Front 185/55/15
ADS08R Rear 205/50/15

£320 delivered from tyreleader.co.uk

fitted and balanced locally for £10 a corner

Off to test them out on a trackday at Brands on Monday so will get back here with feedback then.

HFB
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: damo66 on March 4, 2016, 17:19
fitted a set of Avon zv5's the other day.
£200 for a set of 4 standard PFL from tyreshopper.
they seem very good so far in the wet and the dry. not a major difference to the kumho that were on previously (so far at least)
Spoke to Avon about the production of the ZV5 and they are phasing them out soon... typical when the rears wear out twice as fast as fronts, but they told me the ZV7's that are coming will be compatible... we'll see!!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Wabbitkilla on March 4, 2016, 18:01
Guys please be careful out there, these temperatures are not ideal for getting the best out of performance tyres.
I know it's colder up here in the North and i was squirming a lot on my Advans last weekend but it's really not that much warmer down South
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: HFB on March 11, 2016, 13:50
Quote from: "HFB"Just fitted to my PFL MR2

AD08R Front 185/55/15
ADS08R Rear 205/50/15

£320 delivered from tyreleader.co.uk

fitted and balanced locally for £10 a corner

Off to test them out on a trackday at Brands on Monday so will get back here with feedback then.

HFB

Dry but cold day at Brands on Monday (7th March) and the tyres didn't miss a beat.

Felt really stable and planted with hardly a squirm (which probably means I'm still driving too slow!   s:( :( s:(  ).

OK, so I'm not fast yet, but these tyres made about 2s per lap difference.

If they last a season of summer/occasional trackdays then I will be a very happy chap!

  s:D :D s:D  

HFB
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: norwichred on April 9, 2016, 21:35
HI.

We bought our roadster 2001 in November and knew we would have to replace all four tyres,

Was hoping to replace with really good ones later in the year, when we had some more money, as we have a child due in two weeks!

However, thanks to our friendly neighbourhood psycho slashing one of our tyres we need at least one rear one.  So figured would replace both rears now.

I know that the incorrect sizes are on there at the moment so my question is, what is the best budget but correct sized tyre we could get for now?

We'll put decent ones on later in the year,

Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Ardent on April 9, 2016, 22:09
I totally understand what you are saying. But, still better to put a decent pair on now.
If going new. Then Toyo or Falken.

No good being minus 1 parent due to ditch finder tyres.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: norwichred on April 10, 2016, 08:06
Don't get me wrong.  Don't want remould or cheap.  Just not looking for the absolute very very best if that makes sense.  What size am I looking for?

Thanks for your advice!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: HFB on April 20, 2016, 12:08
Quote from: "norwichred"Don't get me wrong.  Don't want remould or cheap.  Just not looking for the absolute very very best if that makes sense.  What size am I looking for?

Thanks for your advice!


Lots of people go with Toyo T1R's for daily road usage and seem to rate them quite highly (considering buying a set myself for everyday road usage when my Yokahamas road wheels run low on tread)

I use Tyreleader.co.uk as they seem to be keenly priced and deliver for free.

 m https://www.tyreleader.co.uk/car-tyres/ ... 89v-385148 (https://www.tyreleader.co.uk/car-tyres/toyo/proxes-t1-r/205-50-r15-89v-385148) m

Your rears (assuming they are pre face lift (do you have spotlights - if not then it is a pre facelift unless a modified bumper)) are 205/50/15's and your fronts will be 185/55/15's

Looks like you could get all 4 replaced for under £200 plus whatever you can wangle (for cash probably) with a local tyre fitter.

HTH

HFB
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: james276 on June 3, 2016, 22:37
Year of Roadster: 2005

Rear Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE-914 Ecorun 185/55/15
Front Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE-914 Ecorun 215/45/16

Supplier:Blackcircles
Cost: £262

Previously had Yokahoma AD043 on the car so was a bit concerned about 'stepping down' on tyre quality, however my fears were unfounded.

In the dry they're very stable and responsive. hey're very grippy and I've had no surprises even when trying to find their limits

In the wet they're a bit twitchier but nothing to worry about. Therefore again stable with no surprises- you'll know where the limits are
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: The Other Stu on June 3, 2016, 23:05
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza RE040 215/45/R16
Front Tyres: Already on (Bridgestone RE040 Potenza - 185/50/R15)
Supplier:Blackcircles
Cost: £170 (10% eBay discount) fitted

Wow! What a difference. I previously had some autogrip tyres on which, whilst plenty of grip, don't provide the feedback that the Bridgestones do.
I took advice from the fella who sold me the wheels and he wasn't wrong.

However, they're not cheap for what they are. A whole set will realistically set you back around £330 on a good day. The Toyos can often be had for around £200ish (not fitted). I've not tried the toyos yet, but if I ever need replacements, I'll probably try them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: trooper99 on August 29, 2016, 22:15
Hi, I've decided to go for Toyo Proxes T1R, and would like to ask what size to get for the rears?
Fronts are 195/50 15's, which it seems everyone agrees on, the rears however have different profiles, should I get 225/40 16's, or 225/45   s:shock: :shock: s:shock:  
I would prefer the 40 profile as they should be a bit stiffer than 45's and they are £20 a tyre cheaper!
Its the same question if I do choose another brand, do I get 40 or 45's?   s:mrgreen: :mrgreen: s:mrgreen:
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: shnazzle on August 30, 2016, 12:21
Quote from: "trooper99"Hi, I've decided to go for Toyo Proxes T1R, and would like to ask what size to get for the rears?
Fronts are 195/50 15's, which it seems everyone agrees on, the rears however have different profiles, should I get 225/40 16's, or 225/45   s:shock: :shock: s:shock:  
I would prefer the 40 profile as they should be a bit stiffer than 45's and they are £20 a tyre cheaper!
Its the same question if I do choose another brand, do I get 40 or 45's?   s:mrgreen: :mrgreen: s:mrgreen:

225/45 is the way to go. Definitely. 100%
Although there is an argument for trying 225/40 on the T1Rs as they're made of jello....Not sure if anybody has tried
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: MisterK on August 30, 2016, 14:34
I've got 225/40 16" rears and 195/50 15" fronts - Toyo Proxes T1R.  
Very happy with the set up and the ride.  For everyday use these tyres are fine & I'm sticking with them.  Had Bridgestones & Yoko's fitted previously but I can't fault the Toyo's for the money & what I want them to do.  Not the ideal tyre for a track day though  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: shnazzle on August 30, 2016, 14:39
Quote from: "MisterK"I've got 225/40 16" rears and 195/50 15" fronts - Toyo Proxes T1R.  
Very happy with the set up and the ride.  For everyday use these tyres are fine & I'm sticking with them.  Had Bridgestones & Yoko's fitted previously but I can't fault the Toyo's for the money & what I want them to do.  Not the ideal tyre for a track day though  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:

good stuff. WOuld be interesting for someone to try yours to see if it removes the "slop" from the cornering by dropping the profile
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: stavros58 on September 21, 2016, 15:11
Time came to fit some new tyres so I went ahead and had fitted 4 Avon ZV7 16" at the rear 15" on the front replacing the Bridgestone tyres that are no longer available for the front, total cost £260 + tracking at £40, a lot cheaper than the previous Bridgestones. I've done a few hundred miles on them now motorway and windy fast country lanes, After less than a week on the tyres I am very impressed and my confidence is growing as they start to deliver really decent grip. They feel every bit as good as the Bridgestones but quieter and what feels like a better ride. I've yet to use them in the rain which is amazing considering I live in the North but I'm sure being A rated they will be fine. ATM I would recommend them no problem for everyday use but I've no idea about track use as I don't do track days. They are rated A for wet grip and both size tyres are V speed rated whereas the Bridgestone were rated W for the rears and V for the front. I've had the car for nine years now and never had anything other than Bridgestone so I was hoping these will be as good, as I always found the Bridgestones reliable and predictable and I believe these are. As its early days I will update in a month and see if I still rate them as highly.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: The Other Stu on September 21, 2016, 15:44
 s:D :D s:D  Thanks Stavros
I have Bridgestones which I'm enjoying at the moment, but very aware that the fronts are no longer available.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ShieldsOnTour on October 12, 2016, 14:06
Having been running T1R's for the last couple of years - and I have no real complaints about them - I decided to put something different on. Just put on Avon ZV7's (215/45/16) on the rear (the front's remain as T1R's) and what a difference. Not sure what the overall grip is like compared to the Toyo's (i've not pushed that hard .... yet ...) but you don't get the mid-corner wobble I got with T1R's on the rear. Overall it feels much more planted and stable. Only downside is that its a much firmer tyre so the daily commute is a little more uncomfortable (especially when you consider just how many cobbled roads there are in Edinburgh).
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: StuC on October 12, 2016, 16:02
Can you remeber how you felt when the toyo's went on Tim?
Just aware a new tyre will feel better than a 2 year old one.

I had Avon Z 'something or other' when I changed to my current 17" wheels. The lasted well enough ans gripped well. Once approaching the legal limit for depth, the wet performance dropped off quite quickly.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: ShieldsOnTour on October 12, 2016, 17:56
Toyo's (at the rear) don't last 2 years - I was getting 3-4 months out of them in the summer  :-) :-) :-)

Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: stewart@boro on October 12, 2016, 19:37
Quote from: "MisterK"I've got 225/40 16" rears and 195/50 15" fronts - Toyo Proxes T1R.  
Very happy with the set up and the ride.  For everyday use these tyres are fine & I'm sticking with them.  Had Bridgestones & Yoko's fitted previously but I can't fault the Toyo's for the money & what I want them to do.  Not the ideal tyre for a track day though  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:

Same for me too
The fronts have done 26k whilst I got the second set of rears after 16K.
Them Edinburgh cobbles must take their toll Tim  s:wink: :wink: s:wink:
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: stavros58 on October 17, 2016, 12:00
Just to update earlier post the Avon ZV7 are turning out to be a really good tyre dry grip, ride and noise level excellent and now I have had some lovely British weather the wet tyre performance is excellent as well, I've also done a couple of emergency brake tests in wet and dry and the stopping and control was also excellent. At £250 for 4 tyres I'm very happy with the buy. Even if wear is an issue and I've no reason to suppose it will be, but if so at this price it's not a major expense.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: Ardent on October 17, 2016, 18:43
always good to read afollow up report once a tyre has been lived with.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC data
Post by: insx on December 22, 2016, 14:16
Quote from: "ShieldsOnTour"Having been running T1R's for the last couple of years - and I have no real complaints about them - I decided to put something different on. Just put on Avon ZV7's (215/45/16) on the rear (the front's remain as T1R's) and what a difference. Not sure what the overall grip is like compared to the Toyo's (i've not pushed that hard .... yet ...) but you don't get the mid-corner wobble I got with T1R's on the rear. Overall it feels much more planted and stable. Only downside is that its a much firmer tyre so the daily commute is a little more uncomfortable (especially when you consider just how many cobbled roads there are in Edinburgh).


I'm in exactly the same boat. I just put two ZV7s 215/45/16 on the back but I still have nearly new T1Rs on the front. I've only just done the drive back from the tyre centre but I too have noticed a firmer ride (the car had Accelera Alphas on there before). Tyre shopper was by far the best price I could find at under £139 fitted.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Jims on February 20, 2017, 23:13
Currently running dunlop sport blue response(?something like that) on the front and dunlop sportmax on the back.  Not really impressed with either in terms of raw grip but prefer them to T1R's I've used on previous cars by a long shot. In that price range I have prefered the falken ziex alternatives
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: hq114 on February 26, 2017, 11:49
Year of Roadster: 2005

Rear Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE914 Ecorun 215/45/R16 (Pumped to 32 psi)

Front Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE914 Ecorun 185/55/R15 (Pumped to 30 psi)

Supplier: Blackcircles

Cost: £282.88 (fitted)

My car came with a pair of cracked Bridgestones on the back, and some sketchy looking No-Brands on the front. I've heard awful things about mismatched tyres on an MR2, so they needed to be gone. These Falkens were some of the few I could find that came in the sizes for both the front and rear wheels. I have nothing but nice things to say.I am not a skilled driver at all, but these perform consistently in the wet as well as the dry. Used them all through the winter and they have never put a foot wrong, or put me in a hedge. I've taken them motorway driving, B-road blasting and tarmac autotesting, they've been brilliant throughout. Highly recommended.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on February 26, 2017, 14:32
Enjoyed mine when I had them.
had mine at at 26 on the front.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Jonrav on July 12, 2017, 13:41
Yokohama Advan AD08R

Had these fitted a month or so back, and they have completely transformed the car. The ride is more composed than the previous V12 EVOs, the grip is fantastic with great turn in once again - something that was missing from the V12 EVOs. But the ride is the best thing about them, the bumpiness has disappeared and the car feels great to drive once more. The Yokos may be slightly more expensive then alternatives but well worth it in my opinion.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on July 12, 2017, 13:57
Another one sees the light

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5000 using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on July 12, 2017, 17:19
+1
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Tomo70 on July 12, 2017, 20:49
Quote from: "hq114"Year of Roadster: 2005

Rear Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE914 Ecorun 215/45/R16 (Pumped to 32 psi)

Front Tyres: Falken Ziex ZE914 Ecorun 185/55/R15 (Pumped to 30 psi)

Supplier: Blackcircles

Cost: £282.88 (fitted)

My car came with a pair of cracked Bridgestones on the back, and some sketchy looking No-Brands on the front. I've heard awful things about mismatched tyres on an MR2, so they needed to be gone. These Falkens were some of the few I could find that came in the sizes for both the front and rear wheels. I have nothing but nice things to say.I am not a skilled driver at all, but these perform consistently in the wet as well as the dry. Used them all through the winter and they have never put a foot wrong, or put me in a hedge. I've taken them motorway driving, B-road blasting and tarmac autotesting, they've been brilliant throughout. Highly recommended.

I have the same tyres, purchased from Ardent   s:D :D s:D  . I also run 26psi on the front. Feels a bit better planted than running at higher pressure.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on July 12, 2017, 23:08
As above.  Stock pressure.
Very pleased to hear you are happy with your purchase Tomo70.
I echo your comments. I was very happy with them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: delhusband on August 16, 2017, 19:55
Year of Roadster: 2006

Rear wheels: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota)
Rear Tyres: Michelin Pilot Sport 3 - 215/45/16 V, 32 psi, @1.7mm
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota)  
Front Tyres: Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 185/55/15 V, 26psi, @1.7mm

Supplier: Supplied with car from previous owner
Cost: n/a, but ~£103 for pilot sport 3's and not sure for exaltos

Suspension mods: None - all original and tired, unmatched springs
Comments:
Owned car 3.5 months. Never had track use, never had any other tyres on it, so nothing else to benchmark against. Committed a half sin of unmatched front/rear, although Google says exalto PE2 is predecessor to pilot sport 3 and both have similar pattern. However, I've had plenty of enthusiastic use, approaching my technical limit on road. I can't fault them; I feel like they're totally predictable in the dry, very little noticeable roll, and manageable in the wet with bit of respect. Seeing as this is the left field entry on the thread, I'm keen to see if anyone's used them and can compare with Yoko AD08R's, which are well spoken of
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: BahnStormer on December 31, 2017, 10:09
Year of Roadster: 2007 (MY05)

Rear wheels: Stock: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset +45mm?)
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R 215/45/R16 @ 28PSI (stock+2PSI)
Front Wheels: Stock 6"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm?)
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R  185/55/R15 @34PSI (stock+2PSI)

Supplier: MeritTyre (after I asked them to price-match Blackcircles)
Cost: £400 incl valves, fitting, balancing and Nitrogen filled. July 2017.

Suspension mods: Stock FL setup

Comments: Overall very impressed - I can't fault them for grip and they're a good balance of feel and compliance. I was particularly impressed with them in the wet - not that I'd drive the car hard in the wet, but just for stability when hitting a couple of inches of standing water at 60mph+, I had visions of "M23 pinball", given light the MR2 is, but they managed to disperse water and hold their line every time. In the dry, you get great grip and really predictable when driving the car on the limit... although I'd also predict they'd be near useless below freezing, but yet to be proven on that since I avoid taking the MR2 out when it is much below 5C.

Slight negative: I had two valves with slow leaks on the driver's side front tyre, so the sidewalls felt very soft - I had them at 26PSI originally, but had to keep topping them up. The valve issues were eventually fixed and I'm now running them at 28PSI (which is holding steady!).... they now have a little extra "edge", but it's still not exactly firm - but I'm still learning to trust the sidewall again, so I will admit that some of that may be in my head.

Worth noting that the leaks were NOT the fault of the tyre - just a faulty batch of valves.

I'd definitely buy the Yoko AD08R's every time, but not sure where the optimum trade-off between feel and comfort is.... gut feel, is that if this car starts to get more of a track-bias, then I'd need larger wheels with lower profiles though.... right now it's a commuting tool and a weekend runabout, so comfort is still a factor and the sidewall height is perfect for road use.

EDIT: I changed the "slight negative" paragraph to caveat my impression of the soft sidewall due to a leaky valve. And yes - I'll re-write this review once I've got some coilovers on there   s:D :D s:D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on December 31, 2017, 10:16
I cant agree with AD08R being sidewall soft in any way shape or form.
Have run them on both pre and post facelift cars.
Both with coil overs fitted.
Try Toyo T1R if now they're soft in the sidewall.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on December 31, 2017, 11:27
Sidewalls have metal reinforcement. Sure it was 26psi? Or perhaps there's some flex in your suspension that shouldn't be there?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: BahnStormer on January 3, 2018, 16:45
Quote from: "shnazzle"Sidewalls have metal reinforcement. Sure it was 26psi? Or perhaps there's some flex in your suspension that shouldn't be there?

Now that you mention it - I'm not certain if it was actually @ 26PSI - I had them at that originally, but I know the driver's side had two bad valves, so by that stage I think I had the "soft sidewall" idea in my head.... I'll adjust the review as probably not fair to mark them down on that given it was a problem with the valves, not the tyre. I'm running 28PSI now and it feels pretty firm and that's hardly a world of difference from 26PSI.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Nvy on April 25, 2018, 12:47
I dont know if this is the best place to post this but im puzzled, what tyres are you guys using?

Stock PFL and FL wheels, I wanted to purchase new advanti storm s1 but for now the budget does not permit it. So im trying to find cheap stock wheels they are not bad at al but i cannot find tyres to go on them. Any suggestions will be welcome!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: darrenjuggins on May 4, 2018, 12:26
Tyre Review :

Owned the Car from New - That will be 18 years now....

Tyres used on the Car :

Bridgestone RE040 - Front & Rear

These where the OEM fit and proved very capable for normal road use, hard sidewalls which worked well with the Mid Engined, Rear Wheel Drive set up.

Unfortunately after around 2010 - Whilst it was possible to get the front wheel sizes, the Rears where discontinued.

This meant a complete move to another tyre brand.....

I now run on Toyo T1-Rs - initially I was a little concerned moving from a block construction tread on the RE040's to a V shape pattern of the Toyo's, but once fitted whilst there was a little more lateral movement under hard acceleration, they prove capable in the dry and wet and also are progressive, so it shouldn't cause snappiness which can be problematic for the layout of the MR2 Roadster.

I hope this helps people who are looking, take it from me, i'm a normal average driver who enjoys a spirited drive and am very happy with the Toyo's performance now I can't get hold of the Bridgestones.

Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:16
Hey guys,
Anybody daily driving Advan Neova AD08R? If so please share your experience with the harshness of the ride and the noise compared to some lame tires say eagle ASY 3 or MS PS4. I do have PS4 XL on my other car, if find them stiff enough for my liking and im thinking about buying AD08R for the roadster, ill also daily drive it once its up and running. What i dont want is a body roll from tires and going side ways when not intended to do so.

P.S. Something i couldnt find info on is something PRB after the name of the AD08Rs. Any idea what is it?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: dan944 on June 12, 2018, 16:22
Quote from: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:16
Hey guys,
Anybody daily driving Advan Neova AD08R? If so please share your experience with the harshness of the ride and the noise compared to some lame tires say eagle ASY 3 or MS PS4. I do have PS4 XL on my other car, if find them stiff enough for my liking and im thinking about buying AD08R for the roadster, ill also daily drive it once its up and running. What i dont want is a body roll from tires and going side ways when not intended to do so.

P.S. Something i couldnt find info on is something PRB after the name of the AD08Rs. Any idea what is it?
I'm on ad08r.s amazing tyres. Stick like hell. Sidewalks are good and stiff.

If it rains the grim reaper just follows you around but they're fairly predictable when they let go. Obviously that's down to knowing your particular car and depending on your set up though. :)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:30
Quote from: dan944 on June 12, 2018, 16:22
Quote from: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:16
Hey guys,
Anybody daily driving Advan Neova AD08R? If so please share your experience with the harshness of the ride and the noise compared to some lame tires say eagle ASY 3 or MS PS4. I do have PS4 XL on my other car, if find them stiff enough for my liking and im thinking about buying AD08R for the roadster, ill also daily drive it once its up and running. What i dont want is a body roll from tires and going side ways when not intended to do so.

P.S. Something i couldnt find info on is something PRB after the name of the AD08Rs. Any idea what is it?
I'm on ad08r.s amazing tyres. Stick like hell. Sidewalks are good and stiff.

If it rains the grim reaper just follows you around but they're fairly predictable when they let go. Obviously that's down to knowing your particular car and depending on your set up though. :)

My question was more like: Can you live with them on a bad road and long journeys say 2500 kms? :D On the 2nd thing about grim reaper - i cant drive properly mid engine rear wheel drive car coz i have only driven front wheels so i can slip the car with any tires in the wet.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: dan944 on June 12, 2018, 17:05
Haha. They're incredible tyres in my opinion. But it only takes one bad pothole destroy them, just like any tyre. I don't have any issues with driving around with them though.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on June 12, 2018, 17:41
They're my daily drivers. Have been for years.
When it's snowing or icey I park the car up and find alternate means of travel.
But I was driving it to work through torrential rain and in negative temps and all was good.
Just take it easy. You'll be slower than your average Golf with traction control, esp, etc etc. But you'll be fine
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: McMr2 on July 29, 2018, 22:03
Previous setup toyo proxes t1r, 195/50/15 and 225/40/16.

Current setup t1r fronts 195/45/16 and nankang noble sport ns-20 rears in 215/45/16.

The nankangs were brand new when I bought it 2 years ago but were promptly removed to fit the Toyos.

Recently replaced the wheels and needed tyres to maintain some stagger so the nankangs went on as a temporary measure. Have to say I've been surprised with them following a 600 mile jaunt across a mixture of bone dry, damp and soaking wet roads.

I've found that the twitchy back end in the wet has gone and inspires much more confidence with the car feeling much more settled. Dry grip doesn't seem to have suffered notably but I don't tend to push that much on the road. I'll be running with these for the time being.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: BahnStormer on November 12, 2018, 17:42
Quote from: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:30
Quote from: dan944 on June 12, 2018, 16:22
Quote from: Nvy on June 12, 2018, 16:16
Hey guys,
Anybody daily driving Advan Neova AD08R? If so please share your experience with the harshness of the ride and the noise compared to some lame tires say eagle ASY 3 or MS PS4. I do have PS4 XL on my other car, if find them stiff enough for my liking and im thinking about buying AD08R for the roadster, ill also daily drive it once its up and running. What i dont want is a body roll from tires and going side ways when not intended to do so.

P.S. Something i couldnt find info on is something PRB after the name of the AD08Rs. Any idea what is it?
I'm on ad08r.s amazing tyres. Stick like hell. Sidewalks are good and stiff.

If it rains the grim reaper just follows you around but they're fairly predictable when they let go. Obviously that's down to knowing your particular car and depending on your set up though. :)

My question was more like: Can you live with them on a bad road and long journeys say 2500 kms? :D On the 2nd thing about grim reaper - i cant drive properly mid engine rear wheel drive car coz i have only driven front wheels so i can slip the car with any tires in the wet.

Depends on your suspension - after my initial impression of the AD08R's not being that firm, I can confirm that with coilovers, the tyres are really solid. Noise isn't too bad and with fresh, compliant suspension you'll be fine for a long haul, but if you have 5kg/7kg coilovers dialed in hard you might want to get your fillings checked afterwards.

I've got BC Racing coilovers (4kg/6kg, mid settings) and they're FINE for a ~50 miles of commuting each day - rain or shine. They're no worse in standing water than the BF Goodrichs were and in the dry they stick and stick and stick.... absolutely physics defying stuff.... even in the damp, when they let go, it's all nice and catchable unless you lose the back on a wet corner at silly speeds...

That said - country lanes in winter, so I'll be putting something else on for the next few months...
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Johnny5 on November 16, 2018, 23:27
Hi All,
Bought some all season Vredestein Quatrac 5 in FL OEM sizes, H front and V rear.

What are they like?  In a word, brilliant!  They feel planted.  Can't wait to see what they're like in the cold.  They've made the car more positive and confidence inspiring, and they feel secure and surefooted, even on the bumpy, twisty negative camber back lanes I drove on today.  Obviously, in mild conditions I'm sure one of the best summer tyres (Yoko AD08R/Uniroyal RS3?) would show them up.  But that would be an unfair comparison.  For what they are, these tyres are excellent.

I'll be getting a second set of wheels and some new summer tyres to run from April to November.  When I do, I'll give an update on these Vreds.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: BahnStormer on December 6, 2018, 12:04
Since it is the season for Winter tyres :) I went for these off the back of a TyreReviews vid on YouTube (https://youtu.be/VlzvY3Ld8Es?t=251).

Year of Roadster: 2007 (MY05)

Rear wheels: Stock: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset)
Rear Tyres: Continental WinterContact TS860* 215/45/R16 @ 26PSI (stock)
Front Wheels: Stock 6"x15" (OEM Toyota MY03 Offset)
Front Tyres: Continental WinterContact TS860*  185/55/R15 @32PSI (stock)

*XL version with re-enforced sidewalls.

Supplier: PneusOnline
Cost: £430 + £40 fitting! Incl valves, balancing and Nitrogen filled. Nov2018.
Could have got these for ~£380 incl fitting if I was more flexible with where / when I got them fitted, £90 penalty for impatience and inflexibility.

Suspension mods:
BC Racing, BR Series, Type RA (rubber topmount at rear), 4kg/6kg spring rates. (since June 2018)
Non-standard Geometry setup (WIM/BlackBoots' "fast road" asymmetric setup)

Overall: I'm loving the Continental WinterContact TS860's.... yet to be given a proper "WINTER" test, but I was expecting them to be really compromised for enthusiastic driving and thus far, I've been very, very pleasantly surprised! These tyres were used as the "winter reference" in a recent AutoExpress / Tyre Reviews evaluation of ALL SEASON tyres.... and the Conti TS860's compared really favourably and actually beat a LOT of the top models, especially in terms of wet braking/corners and also subjective feedback :)

Ride/sidewalls: I know I've got the "XL" (reinforced sidewall version), but I was expecting a noticeable softening of the ride compared to the Yokohama AD08R's... it is softer, but really not that noticeably so - it smooths out some of the B-roads that have a slightly "pebble-dashed" texture, but I'm not noticing a lot more flex in the sidewall when cornering that can't be explained by the deeper, less solid treadblock (especially on the edges).

Wet: I'd never rate the MR2 as a car to go looking for big puddles / standing water on.... but I no longer hit them with absolute dread as the TS860's definitely seem to find the road underneath the water very quickly.
Even on slightly damp "greasy" roads, the tyres do an amazing job of finding decent, predictable grip for some enthusiastic cornering... easily better or at least on a par with the Yoko's at 15deg and in a different world below 10deg...
By the time you get <5deg, the Yoko's had gone pretty glassy and had the back squirming under almost anything other than straight line acceleration and the front clearly struggling to key in properly, while the TS860's are still finding good grip front and rear at ~5deg wet conditions.

Dry: clearly nowhere near the AD08R's in the warm + dry, but still a good drive. I've had a couple of dry sub-zero mornings where I know the AD08R's would have been like complete glass, but the TS860's were hanging on perfectly without a whimper, even under some slightly unreasonable provocation (given the icy-white deep frost all around me)!

Slight negative: I have noticed that the ABS kicks in a little earlier than I'd expect under heavy braking. Partly this is due to the camber setting, but even compared to the AD08R's on the same suspension settings, the braking in the dry in particular is the only time I've been reminded of the reduced contact area and deeper/softer treadblock - shock, surprise  :o - they're not road-legal track tyres  ::)

I've mentioned the treadblock differences several times - so to clarify - it just feels that there is a bit more soft rubber between you and the excitement... think of it as going out to play with two Durex Extra Safe's, instead of one Featherlight ;) Seriously though - it can be noticed under cornering - where there is a little more lateral movement before you feel that the tyre starts to move across the road and the most noticeable is the "squidginess" under heavy braking / compressions while cornering... the only time it's been a little unnerving was when I was really pushing on on a warmish, dry November day... these are winter tyres, so never really designed for that sort of driving.

Edit: I'd just like to confirm that despite these doing really well in all-season comparisons, I don't think I'd want these on a car in warmer weather at all: even today ~15C and there was noticeably more "squidge" in the treadblock - the tyre never let go in a an unpredictable way or anything - there was just a lot of sideways movement in the treadblock before you could start to feel the tyre slide. I think the colder weather tightens up the rubber a little more and makes it all feel more solid.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Bossworld on March 14, 2019, 11:00
Year of Roadster: 2004

Rear wheels: Stock: 7"x16" (OEM Toyota)
Rear Tyres: Avon ZV7 215/45/R16 @ 32PSI
Front Wheels: Stock 6"x15" (OEM Toyota)
Front Tyres: Avon ZV7 185/55/R15 @26PSI

Supplier: National / TyreShopper
Cost: £310.30 including fitting, balancing, bead sealant/guarantee and tracking.

Suspension changes: Front wishbones, TREs replaced at 134k miles

Comments: Really happy.  Had an ageing set of Bridgestones on the rear and some 'GT Radial Champiro' nonsense on the front previously.  The car feels less nervous and wanders less on dual carriageways at speed.  Sounds quieter, grips well and rides better over bumps.  No issues in the wet, although I'm waiting on some nice warm dry days to really get the best out of them.

Other comments: I have the slightly higher rated/priced Avon ZZ5s on my Mini Cooper S (225/45/18 on 8J wheels).  These have been absolutely wonderful, though on the Mini, I do note almost a slight droning type noise when driving at speed.  I think that may be because I'm used to the runflats that were on there previously, but the ZV7s on the MR2 seem to give off less of a noise - Could be tread pattern related maybe?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: james_ly on March 19, 2019, 11:31
Year of Roadster: 2003

Rear wheels: PFL: 15"
Rear Tyres: Toyo T1R 205/50/R15 @ 32PSI
Front Wheels: Stock 6"x15" (OEM Toyota)
Front Tyres: Toyo T1R 185/55/R15 @28PSI

Suspension changes: Meister R coilovers

Comments: Only bought these on the rear so they matched the front. The sidewalls are so soft the car feels pretty weird, each steering input takes a moment to catch up. The grip is there, but feels disconcerting at high speed. On the plus side, the ride comfort is brilliant, quiet. Might have to try some higher pressures, or maybe the bed in.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Johnny5 on April 5, 2019, 22:16
Year of Roadster: 2006

Mileage: 25,000

Rear Wheels: Stock (except painted gold!) 7x16 OEM
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R 215/45/R16
Front Wheels: Stock (gold) 6x15 OEM
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R  185/55/R15

Supplier: Blackcircles.  Cost: £396.26 inc VAT, fitting, valve and balance
Fitter: Merityre, Bagshot

Suspension: Totally standard

Preliminary Comments: Had my winter wheels with all season Vredestein Quatrac 5 tyres taken off.  I said I'd give an update on those, continuing from my November review, so first a quick word on those.  Dry: excellent, but has slightly squishy tread blocks typical of siped (snow) tyres, although probably less so than any others this side of the Michelin Crossclimate.  What I'm saying is, if you really lean on them hard, it shows but not as much as a winter tyre.  Wet: safe, even when freezing, as long as you take it easy.  But push it, and it feels like the car would swap ends on you.  Snow: once, we had 3" of snow here in sunny Surrey, and they got me around no trouble up and down hills where other drivers were abandoning their cars.  Overall:  blooming good in the dry for a siped tyre, enabling me to have fun on dry winter days, without having to swap back to summer tyres.  But Continental Allseasoncontact would make a better compromise if you prioritise winter safety in the wet.

Extra Comments: Just wanna say Merityre are excellent tyre fitters.  I've used all the big chains over the years, but MT come out on top for me.  They also have a good reputation among PHers.

Main Comments: Now to the Yokos.  Honestly, I was a little wary about getting these AD08Rs.  They have an excellent rep on here, but I was bothered they might actually have too much grip, spoiling the fun.  I needn't have worried.  The car still moves around if really thrown into a bend hard.  In fact, my all season Vredesteins have so much dry grip, that I'm only experiencing a small surplus over those.  I was worried they might create an excess of grip over grunt, but that is not the case.  They're a good match to the car.  I feel like this car really wants these tyres.  It needs them, it CRAVES them ... ahem, sorry.  They feel right and add an interesting twist.  Due to the steel sidewall inserts, the car really darts one way and then the other, as you flick the steering wheel back and forth.  Think Super Mario Kart and that little mushroom headed guy you could never catch around bends.

Detailed Comments: Feel, feedback and communication is very high.  So high, in fact, that they may even seem a little raw to some.  As an enthusiastic driver, I really like the feel, but acknowledge they are pretty hardcore.  For my needs they are ideal.  Probably not suited to a leisurely Sunday jaunt though.  The car literally feels like stiffer suspension has been fitted. The steering has become almost telepathic.  The trade-off?  Ride has gone from a little fidgety to somewhat bumpy over the worst surfaces.  As I say, I'm happy with that for the razor sharp turn in.  In the wet, in mild conditions, these are slightly grippier than my Vredestein all seasons, but with much better feel, so although this is never a car I would drive on the door handles in the wet, I can at least have a little fun when it's raining.  On the one or two very cold, wet mornings since I bought them, I've deliberately driven carefully as they've felt unpredictable in those dodgy conditions.

Critical Comments: The heightened steering feel has brought a slight side effect with it - tramlining.  It's only mild to moderate, but definitely noticeable.  It feels about the same as a Clio 182 I had that tramlined a little on Michelin PS3s.  Again, I'm happy to live with it for the other benefits.  But my Clio ran lower profile 205/45 16s on the front and felt the same.  So, I would say to anyone running 16s on the front, let alone 17s all round, count the cost of the increased tramlining before pulling the trigger.  Cost wise, they seem like great value for what I've got.  However, they come with only 7mm rear, and 6.5mm front.

Additional Comments: Just as I finally get around to buying some AD08R, they've only gone and discontinued them!  The AD08R has been replaced by the AD08RS, brought out to satisfy european environmental quangos.  It's got a new compound to provide a lower rolling resistance.  I actually nearly didn't get mine.  I ordered through Formula 1, who messaged me to say they'd run out of the rears and didn't know when they'll have any more.  Blackcircles sorted me out in the end.  But I'd say to anyone wanting some, you'd better get in there now, cos I have a feeling they're clearing old stock of 08R to make way for the new 08RS.  Bear in mind my front tyres are date stamped June 2018, purchased just 11 days ago.

Will the new tyres turn out to be slightly less grippy?  Only time will tell.  But allow me to present a glass half full perspective.  Those of you who had the old AD08, and liked it, ask yourself - were you disappointed?  No.  So maybe we should be glad that a tyre probably as good or better than the old AD08 is still going to be made in this world of nanny state interference.

Final Comments: Would I recommend them?  If you're a sporty road driver, definitely.  If you like the occasional track day, yes.  If you're just out for a gentle cruise, then perhaps not.  And if you've got stiffened suspension, 17" rims and an egg delivery business, then no way josé.  I really like these tyres and am very pleased.

My experience of these new tyres has been gathered over just 250 miles, so I might in the future make one or two further comments  :P ;D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on April 6, 2019, 09:07
Quote from: Johnny5 on April  5, 2019, 22:16
Year of Roadster: 2006

Mileage: 25,000

Rear Wheels: Stock (except painted gold!) 7x16 OEM
Rear Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R 215/45/R16
Front Wheels: Stock (gold) 6x15 OEM
Front Tyres: Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R  185/55/R15

Supplier: Blackcircles.  Cost: £396.26 inc VAT, fitting, valve and balance
Fitter: Merityre, Bagshot

Suspension: Totally standard

Preliminary Comments: Had my winter wheels with all season Vredestein Quatrac 5 tyres taken off.  I said I'd give an update on those, continuing from my November review, so first a quick word on those.  Dry: excellent, but has slightly squishy tread blocks typical of siped (snow) tyres, although probably less so than any others this side of the Michelin Crossclimate.  What I'm saying is, if you really lean on them hard, it shows but not as much as a winter tyre.  Wet: safe, even when freezing, as long as you take it easy.  But push it, and it feels like the car would swap ends on you.  Snow: once, we had 3" of snow here in sunny Surrey, and they got me around no trouble up and down hills where other drivers were abandoning their cars.  Overall:  blooming good in the dry for a siped tyre, enabling me to have fun on dry winter days, without having to swap back to summer tyres.  But Continental Allseasoncontact would make a better compromise if you prioritise winter safety in the wet.

Extra Comments: Just wanna say Merityre are excellent tyre fitters.  I've used all the big chains over the years, but MT come out on top for me.  They also have a good reputation among PHers.

Main Comments: Now to the Yokos.  Honestly, I was a little wary about getting these AD08Rs.  They have an excellent rep on here, but I was bothered they might actually have too much grip, spoiling the fun.  I needn't have worried.  The car still moves around if really thrown into a bend hard.  In fact, my all season Vredesteins have so much dry grip, that I'm only experiencing a small surplus over those.  I was worried they might create an excess of grip over grunt, but that is not the case.  They're a good match to the car.  I feel like this car really wants these tyres.  It needs them, it CRAVES them ... ahem, sorry.  They feel right and add an interesting twist.  Due to the steel sidewall inserts, the car really darts one way and then the other, as you flick the steering wheel back and forth.  Think Super Mario Kart and that little mushroom headed guy you could never catch around bends.

Detailed Comments: Feel, feedback and communication is very high.  So high, in fact, that they may even seem a little raw to some.  As an enthusiastic driver, I really like the feel, but acknowledge they are pretty hardcore.  For my needs they are ideal.  Probably not suited to a leisurely Sunday jaunt though.  The car literally feels like stiffer suspension has been fitted. The steering has become almost telepathic.  The trade-off?  Ride has gone from a little fidgety to somewhat bumpy over the worst surfaces.  As I say, I'm happy with that for the razor sharp turn in.  In the wet, in mild conditions, these are slightly grippier than my Vredestein all seasons, but with much better feel, so although this is never a car I would drive on the door handles in the wet, I can at least have a little fun when it's raining.  On the one or two very cold, wet mornings since I bought them, I've deliberately driven carefully as they've felt unpredictable in those dodgy conditions.

Critical Comments: The heightened steering feel has brought a slight side effect with it - tramlining.  It's only mild to moderate, but definitely noticeable.  It feels about the same as a Clio 182 I had that tramlined a little on Michelin PS3s.  Again, I'm happy to live with it for the other benefits.  But my Clio ran lower profile 205/45 16s on the front and felt the same.  So, I would say to anyone running 16s on the front, let alone 17s all round, count the cost of the increased tramlining before pulling the trigger.  Cost wise, they seem like great value for what I've got.  However, they come with only 7mm rear, and 6.5mm front.

Additional Comments: Just as I finally get around to buying some AD08R, they've only gone and discontinued them!  The AD08R has been replaced by the AD08RS, brought out to satisfy european environmental quangos.  It's got a new compound to provide a lower rolling resistance.  I actually nearly didn't get mine.  I ordered through Formula 1, who messaged me to say they'd run out of the rears and didn't know when they'll have any more.  Blackcircles sorted me out in the end.  But I'd say to anyone wanting some, you'd better get in there now, cos I have a feeling they're clearing old stock of 08R to make way for the new 08RS.  Bear in mind my front tyres are date stamped June 2018, purchased just 11 days ago.

Will the new tyres turn out to be slightly less grippy?  Only time will tell.  But allow me to present a glass half full perspective.  Those of you who had the old AD08, and liked it, ask yourself - were you disappointed?  No.  So maybe we should be glad that a tyre probably as good or better than the old AD08 is still going to be made in this world of nanny state interference.

Final Comments: Would I recommend them?  If you're a sporty road driver, definitely.  If you like the occasional track day, yes.  If you're just out for a gentle cruise, then perhaps not.  And if you've got stiffened suspension, 17" rims and an egg delivery business, then no way josé.  I really like these tyres and am very pleased.

My experience of these new tyres has been gathered over just 250 miles, so I might in the future make one or two further comments  [emoji14] ;D
Great review! Spot on and as I feel about them.
I need new rears very soon, as when you get to the wear indicator, the grip is significantly reduced in wet.
I hope I can still get AD08R but if not I will put AD08RS on the rear.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Roj on August 23, 2020, 17:04
Looks like it's been a while since anyone posted here. As a kind-of-newb I thought I'd share my views on my current tyres....

Year of Roadster: 2005

Rear wheels: 7"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Avon ZV7 205/45/16
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Avon ZV7 185/55/15

Supplier: Supplied with car when purchased
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: None
Comments: I've only been driving this car for two weeks, having recently got back into a Roadster after an eight year hiatus. So these are initial thoughts, which I'll update as I put more miles on the car and tyres.

On the way home from collecting the car I took a road I know well, a mountain pass with plenty opportunity to get a feel for the car under various loads. I ended up in tow with an Aerial Atom and a guy on an Enduro bike for a bit and so we weren't hanging around, although due to the nature of the road with unsighted corners, crests, dips and undulations we were rarely over NSL... I mean at all... officer :)

I knew the geo was off from my first test drive prior to collection, so that was always in mind. Initially the car felt pretty good, stable and fairly predictable. Pushing on a bit I felt turn in was ok, but not quite as sharp as I remembered my old '2 was on Toyo T1Rs (albeit that was 8yrs ago). It was a warm, dry day, so there weren't any issues with traction. On quicker bends where the road surface changed or dipped then rose sharply, I felt the sidewalls were a touch soft and the car became a bit nervous. Overall I enjoyed that particular drive and the tyres didn't really factor in my thoughts a great deal, which is a good thing.

I got the geo sorted to standard spec. and then it was off to a wet track evening at Knockhill. It wasn't raining when I first went out onto track so the line was damp but drying. After a few laps taking it easy I began to press on and the tyres coped fairly well at 8/10ths. Going up a notch though they came unstuck, particularly under initial turn in, mid-corner stability and traction on the exit. I was having to be super cautious on the kerbs too - other cars (not MR2s) were using most of the apex kerbs but any time I went near them the car felt skittish at the front and I never felt sure of what it was going to do. Then the rain came again. The ZV7s actually seemed a bit happier under breaking when the line was wet, rather than damp - I assume they clear the water better. Turn in still wasn't great though, with the front washing wide even when trying to put a bit of weight over the front end trailing the brakes slightly. But it was manageable and I still had a great time in the car. The rears were initially up at 32psi so I dropped them to 30psi and everything felt really good at the back. Coming out the hairpin onto the straight was fun, getting on the gas early in the wet meant the rear coming out nice and gently, with small but predictable slides on tap. I didn't expect the ZV7s to be amazing track tyres, and they're not, but they actually worked much better than I expected.

In the first 400 or so miles of road driving they've been as good as required. Road noise is quite high, but I've nothing to compare them to as I can't recall what the T1Rs used to be like all those years ago. Comfort at spec pressures is good, I suspect that's to do with them having fairly soft sidewalls. They didn't have any issues in pouring rain on the motorway either.

All in all, for the money they're decent enough. If you're not going to be heading onto track and you're not a complete hooligan on the roads, they'll see you right.

I'm looking forward to wearing these down and getting AD08RSs on though :D

Updates to follow if anything worth mentioning comes up.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on August 23, 2020, 19:55
Quote from: Roj on August 23, 2020, 17:04Looks like it's been a while since anyone posted here. As a kind-of-newb I thought I'd share my views on my current tyres....

Year of Roadster: 2005

Rear wheels: 7"x15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Rear Tyres: Avon ZV7 205/45/16
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota Offset +45mm)
Front Tyres: Avon ZV7 185/55/15

Supplier: Supplied with car when purchased
Cost: n/a

Suspension mods: None
Comments: I've only been driving this car for two weeks, having recently got back into a Roadster after an eight year hiatus. So these are initial thoughts, which I'll update as I put more miles on the car and tyres.

On the way home from collecting the car I took a road I know well, a mountain pass with plenty opportunity to get a feel for the car under various loads. I ended up in tow with an Aerial Atom and a guy on an Enduro bike for a bit and so we weren't hanging around, although due to the nature of the road with unsighted corners, crests, dips and undulations we were rarely over NSL... I mean at all... officer :)

I knew the geo was off from my first test drive prior to collection, so that was always in mind. Initially the car felt pretty good, stable and fairly predictable. Pushing on a bit I felt turn in was ok, but not quite as sharp as I remembered my old '2 was on Toyo T1Rs (albeit that was 8yrs ago). It was a warm, dry day, so there weren't any issues with traction. On quicker bends where the road surface changed or dipped then rose sharply, I felt the sidewalls were a touch soft and the car became a bit nervous. Overall I enjoyed that particular drive and the tyres didn't really factor in my thoughts a great deal, which is a good thing.

I got the geo sorted to standard spec. and then it was off to a wet track evening at Knockhill. It wasn't raining when I first went out onto track so the line was damp but drying. After a few laps taking it easy I began to press on and the tyres coped fairly well at 8/10ths. Going up a notch though they came unstuck, particularly under initial turn in, mid-corner stability and traction on the exit. I was having to be super cautious on the kerbs too - other cars (not MR2s) were using most of the apex kerbs but any time I went near them the car felt skittish at the front and I never felt sure of what it was going to do. Then the rain came again. The ZV7s actually seemed a bit happier under breaking when the line was wet, rather than damp - I assume they clear the water better. Turn in still wasn't great though, with the front washing wide even when trying to put a bit of weight over the front end trailing the brakes slightly. But it was manageable and I still had a great time in the car. The rears were initially up at 32psi so I dropped them to 30psi and everything felt really good at the back. Coming out the hairpin onto the straight was fun, getting on the gas early in the wet meant the rear coming out nice and gently, with small but predictable slides on tap. I didn't expect the ZV7s to be amazing track tyres, and they're not, but they actually worked much better than I expected.

In the first 400 or so miles of road driving they've been as good as required. Road noise is quite high, but I've nothing to compare them to as I can't recall what the T1Rs used to be like all those years ago. Comfort at spec pressures is good, I suspect that's to do with them having fairly soft sidewalls. They didn't have any issues in pouring rain on the motorway either.

All in all, for the money they're decent enough. If you're not going to be heading onto track and you're not a complete hooligan on the roads, they'll see you right.

I'm looking forward to wearing these down and getting AD08RSs on though :D

Updates to follow if anything worth mentioning comes up.
Excellent review @Roj Thanks for contributing and reviving this thread
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: rusty0273 on September 30, 2020, 22:52
Apologies if I've not found it but do we have a review on AD08RS front & rear?
I've got some pretty tired tyres  :-\  on mine (P7's on rear and RE040 on front) and looking to upgrade.
Previous experience with AD07's was that they were exceptionally good in dry for a good weather car. Ignoring rolling resistance, wear rates etc. Pah!
I was pleasantly surprised to find that AD08RS are available in stock sizes for the facelift MR2.
Not too many options these days.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: thetyrant on October 1, 2020, 08:08
Tyre review for Zestino Gredge07RS

Year of Roadster: 2005

Front Wheels: Stock FL 15"
Front Tyres: 195/50-15 - Zestino Gredge07RS

Rear wheels: Stock FL 16"
Rear Tyres: 205/45-16 - Zestino Gredge07RS


Supplier: https://www.zestino.eu/en/gredge-07rs/ (https://www.zestino.eu/en/gredge-07rs/)
Cost: £350

Suspension mods: Koni Sport Dampers, Tein springs, Whiteline front ARB and Camber bolts

Comments:
I bought these to replace the excellent but outgoing Federal 595RSR which served me well for past 18months or so, bang for buck the Federals were hard to beat on road and track and used them on various cars but hard to get now and price has jumped up, its replacement isnt reviewing well with much less grip so wanted to try something else.

My car usage it fun fast road, trackdays and sprint events so i needed the best allrounder tyre i could find, this used to be the Federal or the older Yokohama AD08 but both of those are now being replaced by lower performance versions and more pricey as well hence looking for something else,  after much research i ordered the unknown to me (and many others i bet) Zestinos Gredge07RS, i went for the softer Gredge07RS compound over the harder Acrocva07A as i need  maximum grip right from the off on sprint events i do, also generally ive found this makes a good road tyre as well just less lifespan but i dont do huge miles.

Verdict:
Excellent tyres on road and track, oodles of grip and good feedback from them due to the stiff sidewalls, wet weather as well so far very goo due to plenty of tread cuts they clear water very well for a high performance/semi slick type tyre, much better than the Federal RSR and Yoko AD08 (previous car) so all in all very happy, downsides that might bother some is a touch firmer ride with the stiff sidewalls and can be noisy on some surfaces but not bad for this type of tyre.

I would recommend these for anyone looking for a high performance tyre with better grip and feel than the latest Federal or Yokohama offerings, and at less money!, there is a harder compound as well which might be better for regular trackday go'ers in terms of life and i might try them next.

HTH and pic below as everyone loves a picture :D

Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: rusty0273 on October 1, 2020, 09:59
Never heard of these before. Thanks for the write-up.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: thetyrant on October 1, 2020, 11:09
Quote from: rusty0273 on October  1, 2020, 09:59Never heard of these before. Thanks for the write-up.

No me either until i spotted them on demon tweeks site, this got me researching and plenty of good feedback from those using/testing so thought i would give them a try, so far no regrets :D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: toyoda on November 16, 2020, 02:15
2006 Tf300 040 Owned for 7 years. (ex Toyota mechanic 1994-99)BMW motorbike mechanic now.

Wheels OEM 15x6 Toyo Proxes tr1  185/55r15
          16x7 Toyo Proxes tr1  215/45r16

These tyres were fitted to my car when I bought it. I have owned a car with these on before and never had cause for complaint,but on the mr2 they are shocking, to say they have good grip in the dry, well thats the only thing thats good,but what tyres do you know that are bad in the dry ???
The price is ok but in the wet they are not suited to spirited driving, (they might be good for drifting) once that back end goes you are not getting it back !!
I would never buy these tyres.
Like on a motorbike the tyres are the most important bit on the vehicle, they are the first and last thing that stops you sliding off the road, More than any other item that you could buy for your MR2, the tyres are the only thing that would make your car safer and improve your lap time.
I would love to run R888's all year for stickyness and looks, but don't have cash to waste and they are rubbish in the wet when cold.
This car is my daily driver so because its more wet than dry in this country I would reccomend some good wet weather or all-seasons tyres. I have owned this car for about 7 years now and since I had an argument with a kerb (with the TOYO's) and also driven in snow and nearly died (also with the Toyo's), I have run:-

oem front 6x15 Michelin Alpin A4 185/55r15
oem rear  7x16 Michelin Alpin A4 215/45r16
about 2 years ago I tried Good Year Vector 4seasons gen2 or 3

As soon as you drive with these you notice that they are more 'squidgey' like the side walls are softer but I dont think they are its just the softer tread or a mix of both.
These winter/all-season tyres are very good, the grip level in the dry is higher than the Toyo's, and in the wet it is like night and day, for example If I set off like an Idiot in first gear in the wet, sliding the back end with the toyo's, when I let off the accelerator the car keeps sliding (sometimes into a kerb) you are already on opposite lock trying to correct the slide but it is not fun and usually you end up overcorrecting and spinning the other way. With the Michelins they take a lot more throttle just to make them spin, but they will still slide, when you are sliding and you let off the accelerator they grip straight away (well loads better than any other tyre I have tried).
In the wet and horrible wet wintery conditions when the roads are slimy with salt they feel safe and very secure.
The greater grip level can be felt at all times compared to the Toyos.
I run them all year and they dont wear out loads quicker. They are not cheap, the last time I bought some new ones they were £400 for the set but I had to shop around. Since then I have bought neary new, or new ones off ebay with 7+mm on them at lots cheaper prices.They would be no good on a track, but it is good fun when it snows driving round and past  4x4's.
Aww I miss working on Toyota's, but they are not the same now. Thats why I like Mr2's the're proper jap lad, one of the last good proper jap sports cars from toyota.
BMW's (there not Jap lad).
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on November 16, 2020, 05:58
Quote from: toyoda on November 16, 2020, 02:152006 Tf300 040 Owned for 7 years. (ex Toyota mechanic 1994-99)Indicatorless wonder motorbike mechanic now.

Wheels OEM 15x6 Toyo Proxes tr1  185/55r15
          16x7 Toyo Proxes tr1  215/45r16

These tyres were fitted to my car when I bought it. I have owned a car with these on before and never had cause for complaint,but on the mr2 they are shocking, to say they have good grip in the dry, well thats the only thing thats good,but what tyres do you know that are bad in the dry ???
The price is ok but in the wet they are not suited to spirited driving, (they might be good for drifting) once that back end goes you are not getting it back !!
I would never buy these tyres.
Like on a motorbike the tyres are the most important bit on the vehicle, they are the first and last thing that stops you sliding off the road, More than any other item that you could buy for your MR2, the tyres are the only thing that would make your car safer and improve your lap time.
I would love to run R888's all year for stickyness and looks, but don't have cash to waste and they are rubbish in the wet when cold.
This car is my daily driver so because its more wet than dry in this country I would reccomend some good wet weather or all-seasons tyres. I have owned this car for about 7 years now and since I had an argument with a kerb (with the TOYO's) and also driven in snow and nearly died (also with the Toyo's), I have run:-

oem front 6x15 Michelin Alpin A4 185/55r15
oem rear  7x16 Michelin Alpin A4 215/45r16
about 2 years ago I tried Good Year Vector 4seasons gen2 or 3

As soon as you drive with these you notice that they are more 'squidgey' like the side walls are softer but I dont think they are its just the softer tread or a mix of both.
These winter/all-season tyres are very good, the grip level in the dry is higher than the Toyo's, and in the wet it is like night and day, for example If I set off like an Idiot in first gear in the wet, sliding the back end with the toyo's, when I let off the accelerator the car keeps sliding (sometimes into a kerb) you are already on opposite lock trying to correct the slide but it is not fun and usually you end up overcorrecting and spinning the other way. With the Michelins they take a lot more throttle just to make them spin, but they will still slide, when you are sliding and you let off the accelerator they grip straight away (well loads better than any other tyre I have tried).
In the wet and horrible wet wintery conditions when the roads are slimy with salt they feel safe and very secure.
The greater grip level can be felt at all times compared to the Toyos.
I run them all year and they dont wear out loads quicker. They are not cheap, the last time I bought some new ones they were £400 for the set but I had to shop around. Since then I have bought neary new, or new ones off ebay with 7+mm on them at lots cheaper prices.They would be no good on a track, but it is good fun when it snows driving round and past  4x4's.
Aww I miss working on Toyota's, but they are not the same now. Thats why I like Mr2's the're proper jap lad, one of the last good proper jap sports cars from toyota.
Indicatorless wonder's (there not Jap lad).

I don't like T1R but they're not that bad they must be well passed their best or there is another issues somewhere.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Zxrob on November 16, 2020, 14:31
Tyres again, thats a surprise

Well I run the Toyo's and they are TR1 not T1R and to be honest found them fine in the dry when warmed up, my MR2 does go out in the rain but I just pootle about then, so again, not had any issues

As a fellow biker, you are correct, tyre choice is key, but 100% to the application of your riding/driving, one mans "fast" on ABC tyres is another mans "slow" on XYZ tyres

Rob
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: toyoda on November 19, 2020, 13:03
I do agree with you both,the toyo's were about 500miles old when I bought the car it was one of the selling points.
Maybe I expected more in the wet but like you say there are other factors to it, also the roads round here are not great, a lot of cambered to the centre with potholes in the verges.
Thank you for your replies.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: toyoda on December 10, 2020, 01:57
Quote from: toyoda on November 19, 2020, 13:03I do agree with you both,the toyo's were about 500miles old when I bought the car it was one of the selling points.
Maybe I expected more in the wet but like you say there are other factors to it, also the roads round here are not great, a lot of cambered to the centre with potholes in the verges.
Thank you for your replies.
I'm Sorry for any confusion they were T1R's not tr1's as I said they were.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on December 17, 2020, 13:58
2000 W reg original 15'' wheels all round (Carolyn supercharger project beastie)

ordered differently, but received + fitted by Kwik-Fit today (mobile service £320 all told)

185/55/15 front Continental Eco 6 x2

205/50/15 rear Continental Premium Contact 2 x2

Ordered Yokahama, received these instead on the understanding that Premium Contact 2(PC2) all round, it was only after doing an 80 odd mile drive in the wet the fronts were not in fact PC2 however ....

Drove at max 7/10ths(as very wet and still a relatively newish car to me) 

Ride good, fairly firm but still compliant

Handling really good, most impressed with the grip levels.

So the Eco 6 were ok, but I would never have chosen them in the first place, it does go to show that the undriven front wheels can have relatively modest spec tyres, and still give a decent result. Obviously the same couldn't be said for the rears, where choice in the standard size is very limited, and the PC2 was not even listed by Kwik-Fit as an option on their web-site
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on December 17, 2020, 22:18
replaced the very tired AD08R with some.
Fronts
(https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=69114.0;attach=14405;image)
Rears
(https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=69114.0;attach=14407;image)

Far to early to offer anything more constructive than fresh rubber is better than 20k worn out rubber.
No bends yet. Just fitters n back. But observations so far. Quieter. Undeniable better grip on these slimy roads.
But they should be, as the 08s were spent.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on December 17, 2020, 23:16
Quote from: Ardent on December 17, 2020, 22:18replaced the very tired AD08R with some.
Fronts
(https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=69114.0;attach=14405;image)
Rears
(https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=69114.0;attach=14407;image)

Far to early to offer anything more constructive than fresh rubber is better than 20k worn out rubber.
No bends yet. Just fitters n back. But observations so far. Quieter. Undeniable better grip on these slimy roads.
But they should be, as the 08s were spent.

Maybe my ineptitude, but I cannot enlarge the piccies to see the size or make
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on December 18, 2020, 00:10
@Gibla

Have a look on the what have you done to your 2 thread. Better pics there.
Page 58 I think.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21
Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on February 25, 2021, 18:51
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
Not enough reviews of "budget" tyres on here. 

Thanks @SteveHarvey73.

There's a lot to say about value for money
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:32
Quote from: shnazzle on February 25, 2021, 18:51
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
Not enough reviews of "budget" tyres on here.

Thanks @SteveHarvey73.

There's a lot to say about value for money
Not sure Nokian would be happy being called budget, they are a Finnish brand best known for winter rubber but their summer tyres come out well in the comparisons.

Useful review here.

https://www.tyrereviews.com/Article/2020-Tyre-Reviews-Ultimate-Summer-Tyre-Test.htm

On balance I went with the Nokian option as it seemed a really good allrounder, with no glaring weaknesses. I won't be tracking the car and wanted decent wet grip.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on February 25, 2021, 21:26
@SteveHarvey73

Most of us here are aware of Nokian and their winter tyres. Never considered them for summer rubber so thanks for that.
From the point of view of someone that generally fits yokohama AD08R on their 2 nokians are pretty budget.
Yoko are £95
Goodyear £90
Uni royal £80

Admittedly fully fitted prices
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on February 25, 2021, 21:32
Didn't mean to offend. I guess I have grown accustomed to tyres 85gbp and over.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 26, 2021, 08:08
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 25, 2021, 21:26@SteveHarvey73

Most of us here are aware of Nokian and their winter tyres. Never considered them for summer rubber so thanks for that.
From the point of view of someone that generally fits yokohama AD08R on their 2 nokians are pretty budget.
Yoko are £95
Goodyear £90
Uni royal £80

Admittedly fully fitted prices

I used to run Yokos on my race car. I considered Yoko ADO8R but couldn't source any and have seen negative feedback on the later AD08RS so looked elsewhere. Budget has pretty negative associations and might put people off my recommendation, so just trying to highlight my view of them being good tyres at any price - all in per corner was just over £70.

All the best.

Cheers,

Steve.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23
I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try. 
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 08:37
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try.
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16

Why so big?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:39
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 08:37
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try.
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16

Why so big?
195 front as I'm on 7in wheels in front. And 225 rear because I like how that grips vs 215.
It's not THAT big. It's only 1 size up from stock
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 09:48
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
What is the load rating of the tyre?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 10:05
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:39
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 08:37
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try.
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16

Why so big?
195 front as I'm on 7in wheels in front. And 225 rear because I like how that grips vs 215.
It's not THAT big. It's only 1 size up from stock

I must not drive hard enough because I really enjoy 185 205.
Or maybe I need more torque? 🤔
Although as @s12vea will confirm its pretty lively in the wet.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 10:05
Quote from: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 09:48
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
What is the load rating of the tyre?


He's on one now @Dev has set him on the path.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 26, 2021, 10:08
Quote from: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 09:48
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
What is the load rating of the tyre?


They are 86H.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 13:32
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 10:05
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:39
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 08:37
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try.
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16

Why so big?
195 front as I'm on 7in wheels in front. And 225 rear because I like how that grips vs 215.
It's not THAT big. It's only 1 size up from stock

I must not drive hard enough because I really enjoy 185 205.
Or maybe I need more torque? 🤔
Although as @s12vea will confirm its pretty lively in the wet.
Not a necessity. It's a preference. I prefer the balance on the setup above.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: s12vea on February 26, 2021, 14:50
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 10:05
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:39
Quote from: 1979scotte on February 26, 2021, 08:37
Quote from: shnazzle on February 26, 2021, 08:23I am after some new tyres and if they have these in my sizes I may give them a try.
Need 195/50/15 and 225/45/16

Why so big?
195 front as I'm on 7in wheels in front. And 225 rear because I like how that grips vs 215.
It's not THAT big. It's only 1 size up from stock

I must not drive hard enough because I really enjoy 185 205.
Or maybe I need more torque? 🤔
Although as @s12vea will confirm its pretty lively in the wet.

Oh yes they are lively :)

I do agree with the above 1955015 and 2254516 on stock wheel

Fills the arches better and tad more rubber on the road
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 17:38
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 26, 2021, 10:08
Quote from: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 09:48
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
What is the load rating of the tyre?


They are 86H.
The other thread was this. https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?msg=845658 Learnt at lot.

Having looked at the numbers and cross ref'd things in tables in above thread. Turns out the Nokian are a close match to OEM load index.

OEM 81 @ 26psi = 783 load index. (standard load table)
From the XL table, looking for as close to 783 on the 86 line. We arrive at 761 (-22) or 794 (+11) 794 takes it. Then reading reading off the PSI for that figure gives.
T'da 26psi. Sweet. Not even my tyres, But I find that rather satisfying.

Tyres and pressures make such a difference on these cars. I ended up knocking mine down 1psi. Car went from happy to very happy.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 26, 2021, 18:21
Quote from: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 17:38
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 26, 2021, 10:08
Quote from: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 09:48
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 20:39
Quote from: Ardent on February 25, 2021, 19:08
Quote from: SteveHarvey73 on February 25, 2021, 12:21Have just put on a set of Nokian Wetproof 185 55 R15 on the front of my MR2, as it had mismatched tyres across the front axle when I bought the car (a budget and a cheap yoko) - have kept the Avon ZV7s on the rear as they seem OK and have plenty of tread left.

Nokian do supply the right size 215 45 R16 for the rear also in case you are interested!

First impressions on a brief wet drive home from the tyre fitters down some cruddy b-roads, is that they are great tyres - confidence inspiring on the road. Happy so far.

Tyres supplied by Camskill at £52 per corner, plus delivery. Local tyre place charges me £15 per tyre to fit and balance.

Hope this might help you to decide.

Cheers,

Steve.
As a carry over from another thread. Do pay attention to what the load rating of the tyre is, vs the OEM spec. (sticker in bottom of glove box)
Note if the Nokians are standard load, or labeled XL or extra load or re-inforced. Can have a bearing on correct inflation.
Worth spending a bit of time on this to get things right. 


OK, thanks - the Nokian Wetproof are XL/re-inforced, currently running them at 26psi. They felt OK. Seems I have a few things to learn in this regard though!
What is the load rating of the tyre?


They are 86H.
The other thread was this. https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?msg=845658 Learnt at lot.

Having looked at the numbers and cross ref'd things in tables in above thread. Turns out the Nokian are a close match to OEM load index.

OEM 81 @ 26psi = 783 load index. (standard load table)
From the XL table, looking for as close to 783 on the 86 line. We arrive at 761 (-22) or 794 (+11) 794 takes it. Then reading reading off the PSI for that figure gives.
T'da 26psi. Sweet. Not even my tyres, But I find that rather satisfying.

Tyres and pressures make such a difference on these cars. I ended up knocking mine down 1psi. Car went from happy to very happy.


Awesome! Many thanks to my 'tyre P.A.', and very satisfying to learn this. Much appreciated! Very happy here. Enjoy your weekend. Cheers, Steve.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on February 26, 2021, 22:49
@SteveHarvey73

Being based in Chester. Have a look at our events section and Dingday. If, and it's a BIG, if, our national day goes ahead. I strongly suggest you attend. The one weekend of the year, you will see more 2's than you can wave a stick at. And no two 2s will be the same.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: SteveHarvey73 on February 27, 2021, 23:18
OK, will check that out. Thanks.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: abbot on March 5, 2021, 09:28

Having put a few hundred miles on my Falkens now I thought I'd add a quick review as I know others have been looking at them -

2002 Roadster, 15" wheels all round. Went from 4 mismatched budget tyres to Falken Ziex ZE310 in stock sizes. I was looking for a general use tyre that could cope with normal roads and water, rather than being track focused. 

So granted anything was going to be an improvement from what I had before but previously I was getting some tram lining on the car and this has been eradicated with the new tyres which is great. They have coped really well with the winter weather and have been very confidence inspiring on wet and dry roads. I'm not the most aggressive driver but do like a spirited blast round the B roads and have found that they perform really well through the corners and also accelerating off from roundabouts etc.

My daily driver car is on Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance tyres which are well reviwed and compared to those the Falkens feel like they have more grip and a sportier feel, although that could just be the difference between a hatchback and a roadster!

Overall I'm very happy, especially for the cost so would buy them again. I got them from Demon Tweaks on an ebay seller offer which is well worth looking out for if it pops up again!

Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on March 5, 2021, 10:15
Liked the falkens when I had mine.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on March 11, 2021, 16:43
Previously '53 reg 'standard' 2  + just fitted replacement sizes for what were already on the car.

185/55/R15 Continental EcoContact6 86V - Front <<<<< damn sight better than the Eco name would suggest!

215/45/R16 Continental Premium Contact2 90V - Rear

Used this same combo on 'Superblue', admittedly slightly different sizes on that, as 15'' pfl.

Wet n windy day, so caution was the name of the game for most of a 60 mile round route today. But the last few miles did manage to put a grin on my face, super grip and a reasonable ride....happy!!

This was based on 29psi F 32psi R

£325

 
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: puma2 on March 17, 2021, 17:52
 :) new falkens ze310 fiited all in for £290.90p dated fitted 17/3/21

std 2 just with lowering springs. with 41k miles.

front size 185/55/15 and rear 215/45/16   26/32 psi

i have only ever driven 2s with reo40s on bridgestone so will be finding out what what they are like.
had them fitted only because my tyres had been on for a while and wanted a fresh set.

as most of you no its the rears size is the problem getting tyres to match.

blackciricles prices for the falkens ze310 ecorun today are £368 all in fitted just to see what how much tyre prices vary.

as some of you no that Michelin own blackcircles  and ATS auto centers

i went for this set up as some other owners have used these tyres and has no real complaints i would have happily spent more money on AD08r but with them changing to rs the feed back not so good.

another  set up  with the same size options that  fitted that i might have gone for would been.
continental  premium contact 2 cost on blackcircles all in fitted £391.

so time will tell now and will right up when i have done some more millage probably  in  a years time when Wales is not in lockdown and i have moved my 2 more than a 1000 miles  ha ha :)  :)

protyre cardiff north clive st fitted them and gave local tyres places a chance to beat the price but they all said no.

any info wanted or if i left anything out let me no, ;D  ;D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on June 3, 2021, 22:46
Been a while now on my front Uniroyal Rainsport 5 195/50/15 and rear Uniroyal Rainsport 3 215/45/16.

Few observations;
- these tyres grip just smashing
- as advertised, wet grip is phenomenal
- my ABS has calmed right down. ABS doesn't kick in over-eagerly anymore which is amazing!
- lots of squealing on corners :)
- they're not AD08(R) 's. No comparison. But I've pushed them quite hard now for road use and they're absolutely smashing.
- with a tiiiny bit more PSI they're actually plenty stiff while still adding some compliance I lost by going coilover
- and one negative; braking distance. Braking is NOTHING like braking on the AD08(R) 's. Not comparable. As demonstrated by the ABS no longer kicking in. As quickly. I have to change my braking behaviour on a spirited run. There's no late braking on Rainsports. You have to feather it in and then mash.
Don't get me wrong they brake great and especially in the wet. But on dry, between AD08R and Rainsports it's night/day.

Still very happy with my choice and would recommend them
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: The Other Stu on June 4, 2021, 07:35
Funny enough, I went for Rainsport 3s front and rear (seemed the best option at the time - last summer).
Have only had them on for a thousand miles or so and haven't had the pleasure of AD08Rs (I'm really not at all confident in the wet or damp having taken a spin a couple of years back).

Quite agree about braking. Even compared with the standard bridgestones, they do take a bit of warming into the corners, although I find they perform much better when they are proper warm.

And yes, you can't half make them squeal on a roundabout, knowing that you're not going nose-to-tail.

My downside is that they still feel a little soft on the tyre wall.

My car #2 has barely used Nankang NS20s. For a budget tyre, they're a much better option than the T1Rs I still have sat outside my house! They seem confident and sticky. Like others, they do need a good blow up - I found them a bit lardy driving around on the recommended pressures.

I guess what I'd really like out of a tyre is a really firm sidewall, but at the same time, amazing in the wet. If anyone finds something, please LMK. Although I get the feeling it'll be a while before I need a change of tyres.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: tricky1138 on June 4, 2021, 09:50
Well after a proper blast out a couple of weeks ago, Patrick and Stu have prompted me to review my Tyres.

I bought the tyres about 18 months ago, but have not used them in anger in the dry till now.

FYI - Standard FL with New KYB shocks on Teins.

Nankang NS-20 195/50/15 and 225/45/16 on Team Dynamic alloys.

After a recommendation from Carolyn I decided to give them a try. I had to replace my ageing and cracking Bridgestone RE040 front tyres and could not get any to match my rears so decided to replace all 4.

Could not get 185/55/15 for the front so went 195/225 to maintain the stagger. You can get them in 215/45/16 if you wish.

First impressions when I first got them fitted was that I didnt like them. They felt very soft and wallowy, and less grip - although that could just be the new tyre releasing agent.

I upped the pressure from 26/32 to 28/34 and that felt much better. They do have softer sidewalls than the Bridgestones so have put it down to that.

As Stu has said, can we find a stiff sidewall, good all weather tyre, that would be great.

I got caught out in some rain last year on the 1 meet I attended, with very damp and greasy roads, and I have to say I was impressed with them. They held the road very well, while I know others mentioned how slippery it was. I felt totally confident with them.

Roll forward a year, and a blast out on some of my favourite roads that I know really well. Dry, warmish day - although it was cloudy and had just had a shower maybe an hour before.

Absolutely fantastic - now I know I'm not the fastest driver in the world, but they held the road at all the speeds I was comfortable going round the corners in. They gripped on acceleration and braked well.

I have to say I now like these tyres and can recommend them to anyone on a budget, for both wet and dry driving. I havent tried them in the cold so cant comment on that, plus I cant compare them to AD08s as I've never tried them. But for the miles I do per year a cheap tyre that performs well, that I will probably have to replace on age, not wear, I really do like them.

Maybe in a few years time, when I'm due replacement, there will be a better tyre out there in correct sizes, but up till then, I'm happy.

 
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on June 4, 2021, 11:26
Not talking about the make but the sizes.

I've recently driven a car on 195/225 and it felt awful.

I really think you guys are missing out. The car feels so alive on 185/205.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: tricky1138 on June 4, 2021, 11:42
Quote from: 1979scotte on June  4, 2021, 11:26Not talking about the make but the sizes.

I've recently driven a car on 195/225 and it felt awful.

I really think you guys are missing out. The car feels so alive on 185/205.

Previous tyres were 185/215 and have run winters on 185/205 PFL wheels.

Maybe I need more power as I havent noticed a real difference!

Obviously the winters were a bit different and cant push as well, but never had any problems on any of them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: shnazzle on June 4, 2021, 12:04
Quote from: 1979scotte on June  4, 2021, 11:26Not talking about the make but the sizes.

I've recently driven a car on 195/225 and it felt awful.

I really think you guys are missing out. The car feels so alive on 185/205.
185 front definitely makes the car feel more lively. A bit too lively for me. I personally like the extra resistance of the 195 and I don't feel it hampers actual cornering ability. I felt that on hard corners on 185 the front did have a tendency to slide out and understeer. That went away on 195. But, 185 definitely is easier to drive. The car is much more pointy.


Can't remember 205 rear. Was a long time ago since my pre-fl but I do remember going to FL when I bought it and noticing the difference between 205 and 225 that it came with. The pick-up on the 205 15s was nicer I have to admit. When I went 225 rear I did feel that the rear grip went through the roof. Quite noticeably. But...again at a cost of understeer.
Now back on the 215s...I have to admit it feels a bit better balanced. Liking 195/215 at the minute. And that's with my shitey weird offset (due to correct soon)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: potge on June 6, 2021, 13:38
Hankook Ventus Prime 3 K125
F: 195/50/15
R: 215/45/16

Stock car, used daily and for track usage would prefer a "proper" semi like R888 or Yoko A048. Thus, AD08 or similar were not an option.
Ended up with Hankook as are considered decent all rounders (given the available options for matching front and rear).
I was hoping the slight front height drop, together with the slightly wider tread to shift it, a bit, towards the oversteer side of things. In its current suspension and tracking setup/state is a bit understeer and turn-in without trail braking is so and so.
I also wanted to put 205/45/16 on the back, as I was never a big fun of the 215 and in general the facelift setup (think is a step back in terms of fun/agility), but opted for one change at a time approach.
So after a long intro.
1. Car is more compliant and having ridden quite long and rough roads recently is a benefit.
2. Is a bit quieter, but definitely there are quieter tyres out there.
3. Handling wise, I think the initial turn-in and feedback is compromised by the narrow front rims and even visually you can see the tyre could have gone with 0.5-1 inch wider rims. It is better than before but still has plenty of opportunities for improvement.
4. Overall handling balance improved a bit.

All in all, no surprises (positive or negative). Seems to match the expectation, i.e. a decent all rounder. Was hoping a bit more handling wise, but is understandable why that is not the case.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Dev on June 6, 2021, 14:32
Quote from: 1979scotte on June  4, 2021, 11:26Not talking about the make but the sizes.

I've recently driven a car on 195/225 and it felt awful.

I really think you guys are missing out. The car feels so alive on 185/205.

  Every time I drive a locals car that I advised to stick with these tire sizes I get jealous of how much more fun it is to drive. Its the less unsprung weight that helps the damper keep the tire connected to the pavement.   
 There are two rules I try to follow for this car when it comes to tires. 
It is always better to buy a better tire in a smaller size then to buy a budget wider tire. Its always better to buy a tire that has a reputation of having a stiff sidewall. 



 


Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Zspeed on June 30, 2021, 13:50
Are ad08r still available? Struggling to find anywhere with them in roadster sizes.  Tia
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: thetyrant on June 30, 2021, 14:35
Quote from: Zspeed on June 30, 2021, 13:50Are ad08r still available? Struggling to find anywhere with them in roadster sizes.  Tia

No only if you find some old stock, they have been replaced by the harder/not as sticky compound AD08RS :(
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Zspeed on June 30, 2021, 19:40
Thanks

I just had a search about and the rs don't seem to have good reviews though. Anyone got any experience of them on a 2?

Or what are people using now instead of the R?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: thetyrant on June 30, 2021, 20:24
Im on Zestino Gredge 07RS they are awesome...pretty soft compound so life wont be as good as the Yoko but the grip is unreal and pretty decent in wet as well - here they are...  https://www.zestino.eu/en/gredge-07rs/
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: 1979scotte on July 6, 2021, 06:23
Quote from: Zspeed on June 30, 2021, 19:40Thanks

I just had a search about and the rs don't seem to have good reviews though. Anyone got any experience of them on a 2?

Or what are people using now instead of the R?

Avoid.
The RS just aren't the same.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: tricky1138 on July 6, 2021, 08:26
Just an addendum after driving home from Ding Day in the torrential rain -

The Nankang's were great, never put a foot wrong or felt like they were going to slide or spin me out. Obviously slowed down due to conditions but felt totally confident in them.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Chilli Girl on July 6, 2021, 08:39
My brand new Falkens ZE310 were great too in atrocious driving conditions.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: AJRFulton on July 6, 2021, 20:37
Quote from: thetyrant on June 30, 2021, 20:24Im on Zestino Gredge 07RS they are awesome...pretty soft compound so life wont be as good as the Yoko but the grip is unreal and pretty decent in wet as well - here they are...  https://www.zestino.eu/en/gredge-07rs/

How are these tyres? Never seen much of a comparison between them and other tyres, so don't know how to class them.

Are they track tyres that are road legal (888R, AR1, A052, etc)

Or road tyres that are suitable for the track (Federal RSR, AD08, NS-R2, etc)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: thetyrant on July 6, 2021, 20:55
Quote from: AJRFulton on July  6, 2021, 20:37Im on Zestino Gredge 07RS they are awesome...pretty soft compound so life wont be as good as the Yoko but the grip is unreal and pretty decent in wet as well - here they are...  https://www.zestino.eu/en/gredge-07rs/

How are these tyres? Never seen much of a comparison between them and other tyres, so don't know how to class them.

Are they track tyres that are road legal (888R, AR1, A052, etc)

Or road tyres that are suitable for the track (Federal RSR, AD08, NS-R2, etc)


Road legal track tyres im very impressed with them better in everyway than the Federal RSR i had on previous, mine are the softer compound and stick like glue in dry and pretty decent in the wet as well.

Like you i couldnt find much online about them but what i did was enough to make me give them a go and glad i did :D
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: moca2cv on July 27, 2021, 16:12
Year of Roadster: 2002

Rear wheels: 6.5"x15" (OEM Toyota)
Rear Tyres: Federal RS-R 205/50r15
Front Wheels: 6" x 15" (OEM Toyota)
Front Tyres: Federal RS-R 195/55r15

Supplier: Ebay 
Cost: Not a lot

Suspension mods: BC Coilovers, polybushes, Hardrace toe arms, strut braces front and rear, OEM ARBs.

Comments:
I got on well with RS-Rs on my old MX5, so thought I'd give them a go on this. So far I've used them on two trackdays as well as a little bit on the road, and they're a great tyre, giving plenty of grip, nice predictable handling, and progressive slip. They've worn reasonably well too - plenty of life left so I think they'll manage a couple more trackdays no problem!
They are not as grippy as 888s or similar, but they were half the price, and anyway, too much grip with 140bhp isn't as fun!
My only negative comment would be that the sidewalls aren't all that stiff, so the car can feel a little unsettled in a chicane for example, but a wider wheel and a little stretch should help.
The other thing to note is that these tyres are deadly on wet leaves. Rain is fine, and even standing water so long as you take it fairly easy, but if it's wet and autumn leave the car and walk 😂

Solid 8/10 tyres for a bit of fun.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on January 24, 2022, 16:15
Bought a set of 15'' Speedline wheels in white to fit onto the 'Superblue' < was very dubious about white, but they actually look pretty good and are what is pleasing to these eyes :- 10 evenly spoked wheels.

Anyways I digressed with those comments, I had already got a set of 195/55/15 Michelin Cross Climate 2's on another car with only about 1000 miles under their belt. So decided as I was going to use these as an all year round tyre asap- why not put them onto this car. For right or wrong I looked on the recommended sizes for 6.5 J wheels + decided that the admittedly limited range of 205 Michelin Cross Climates could be mounted at the rear.

So to cut a long story short :- the summary of what is on the car

195/55/15 Front, 205/60/15 Rear, 26psi F, 32 psi R .

So very much NOT a low profile tyre, but I noticed the ride and general 'crashiness' over bumpy shitty road surfaces was much improved. The road-holding, pointiness, general sharpness is maybe(v difficult to decide) a tad less, but a very worthwhile trade-off if that's the case IMO. Noise levels:- normal, Grip:- on greasy slimy roads excellent, and confidence-inspiring.

Hopefully, Michelin will continue to expand its Cross Climate 2 portfolio, my size set-up probably wouldn't suit everyone, but having had a # of tyre variations in terms of size and manufacturer over the last 18 or so months I am more than happy with this new arrangement.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on January 24, 2022, 16:23
Quote from: Gibla on January 24, 2022, 16:15Bought a set of 15'' Speedline wheels in white to fit onto the 'Superblue' < was very dubious about white, but they actually look pretty good and are what is pleasing to these eyes :- 10 evenly spoked wheels.

Anyways I digressed with those comments, I had already got a set of 195/55/15 Michelin Cross Climate 2's on another car with only about 1000 miles under their belt. So decided as I was going to use these as an all year round tyre asap- why not put them onto this car. For right or wrong I looked on the recommended sizes for 6.5 J wheels + decided that the admittedly limited range of 205 Michelin Cross Climates could be mounted at the rear.

So to cut a long story short :- the summary of what is on the car

195/55/15 Front, 205/60/15 Rear, 26psi F, 32 psi R .

So very much NOT a low profile tyre, but I noticed the ride and general 'crashiness' over bumpy shitty road surfaces was much improved. The road-holding, pointiness, general sharpness is maybe(v difficult to decide) a tad less, but a very worthwhile trade-off if that's the case IMO. Noise levels:- normal, Grip:- on greasy slimy roads excellent, and confidence-inspiring.

Hopefully, Michelin will continue to expand its Cross Climate 2 portfolio, my size set-up probably wouldn't suit everyone, but having had a # of tyre variations in terms of size and manufacturer over the last 18 or so months I am more than happy with this new arrangement.

''Those tyres are taller than stock so would be more compliant. I. Theory the handling should be adversely affected but theory and practice don't always match up'' < from a well respected but un-named 'guru'
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on January 24, 2022, 23:19
Had you considered these all new multi discipline tyres.

IMG_20220124_231728_604.jpg
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: fawtytoo on April 19, 2022, 13:41
I've just returned from the tyre centre. All 4 tyres need replacing as they're perishing.

I have EOM PFL wheels.

I compiled a list of preferences based on reviews here:

I'll start with #4: They are still available as 185/55 15, but not in 205/50 15. Didn't ask about FL rears.

The Continentals are not available higher than Contact 2 for the rears. Again, I have a PFL.

So it was a choice between the Toyo and Falken tyres. Opted for Falken as they are A rated for wet as opposed to the Toyo which are B rated.

Prices comparisons for those interested:
Toyo: front £70, rear £76
Falken: front £72, rear £80

I'm having them fitted tomorrow. Will give further feedback after some driving.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: rusty0273 on April 19, 2022, 13:56
Quote from: fawtytoo on April 19, 2022, 13:41I've just returned from the tyre centre. All 4 tyres need replacing as they're perishing.

I have EOM PFL wheels.

I compiled a list of preferences based on reviews here:
  • Toyo Proxes T1R
  • Falken Ziex ZE310 Ecorun
  • Continental Eco Contact 6
  • Bridgestone Potenza RE040

I'll start with #4: They are still available as 185/55 15, but not in 205/50 15. Didn't ask about FL rears.

The Continentals are not available higher than Contact 2 for the rears. Again, I have a PFL.

So it was a choice between the Toyo and Falken tyres. Opted for Falken as they are A rated for wet as apposed to the Toyo which are B rated.

Prices comparisons for those interested:
Toyo: front £70, rear £76
Falken: front £72, rear £80

I'm having them fitted tomorrow. Will give further feedback after some driving.

Where did you see the RE040 front 185/55 r15 for sale? Couldn't find them in stock anywhere.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: fawtytoo on April 19, 2022, 15:06
Quote from: rusty0273 on April 19, 2022, 13:56Where did you see the RE040 front 185/55 r15 for sale? Couldn't find them in stock anywhere.
My local independent outlet: New Milton Tyre Company.

EDIT: Who are supplied by ProTyre.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on April 19, 2022, 15:45
Very happy with the falkens when I had some. Very good in the wet.

No good to anyone following you though. Boy do they shift the water. Impressive rooster tails in the mirrors when making progress.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: VC6 on January 18, 2023, 11:27
Falken Ziex ZE 310 Ecorun
Front 195/50/R15
Rear 205/50/R15
Stock 15 inch wheels all round with a staggered setup
Stock Suspension (KYB) with H&R Lowering Springs
It was hard sourcing tyres for the 15 inch wheels, I ended up getting the Falken Ziex ZE310s for about 320 euros
I had a limited budget otherwise I would have gotten the Toyo TR1s that would cost me about 450 euro
The Ziex ZE310 compound is a very good economy type tyre that still has some good grip for performance driving, my main use for the car is the touge , I noticed during summer where grip is at it's peak and I push the car hard that after 2-3 passes of the 5km tarmac rally style course that the tyres started to overheat and lose grip , I had lots of understeer and the car was slipping around all over the pass, after they cool down grip was restored, at an autocross event I had to drop the front tyre pressure to 28 psibecause the car was almost undrivable on the slippery course, i usually run
32 PSI Front (cold)
34 PSI Rear (cold)
I always carry with me a tyre pressure gauge to drop the pressure if needed to up the grip, that's all for dry conditions
In Wet conditions since the tyres don't reach high temperatures and don't overheat easily the grip is excelent and I've never experienced Aquaplaning with the ZE310s and the grip is almost like it's dry, that's when it's raining and theres a decent ammount of water on the street, if the road is only partially wet with high humidity the car spins very easily. Its's the first set of tyres I put on the car about a a year ago hence I can't compare them to any other tyres besided the 4 195 square setup  old Continental Premium Contact 5s it had on when I bought it..
[edit]
I'm leaving this link below to check out the review made by Tyre Reviews that is more detailed
https://www.tyrereviews.com/Tyre/Falken/ZIEX-ZE310-EcoRun.htm
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on January 18, 2023, 18:32
They are very good in the wet.
Rarely get the hot temps in the UK like you do in Greece.

BTW
Stock fronts are 185/55/15. Pressure 26psi. 32 front is  :o  look for a little sticker in the bottom of the glove box.

Stock rear pressure is 32.

Finding correct matching tyres is a reoccurring theme on here. Welcome to the club.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Ardent on January 22, 2023, 23:20
@VC6

Any update on tyre pressures?
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: VC6 on January 25, 2023, 18:34
Quote from: Ardent on January 22, 2023, 23:20@VC6

Any update on tyre pressures?
hello , just saw your reply, thanks for letting me know about tyre pressures I'll check out the glove box for that label, I used to run 30 psi front 32 psi rear, I somehow felt better with 32 psi front and 34 psi in the rear tyres though, I might drop it to the manufacturers recommended pressures and test them again
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gibla on July 18, 2023, 13:41
Yet another variation from OEM

PFL wheels, kybs springs + shocks (on an MR-S)

Received advice to try 195/50/15 F+R ....so went ahead + bought Yoko 08RS from Camskills.

Only done ~ 40-50 miles to date, very impressed with grip and ride (but seemingly I am easily pleased)
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Two's Company on October 30, 2023, 14:16
The age old tyre debate. Not many options is there?!

Standard size for FL Vector 4 season but one axle gen 2 and one gen 3. Anyone done this?

Or Eco310s. The eco name puts me off but I see others like them.

I've always had the Toyos. With a bit of extra pressure they've always been fine. But ideally I would like something a bit more modern.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Gaz mr-s on October 31, 2023, 00:20
Read tests.   The Toyo has been replaced T1r > TR1 which has firmer sidewalls.  Don't be thinking the Falken has little grip, - it's predecessor was decent, & so is it. It used to be bettered by the Hankook K125,  but any new test is likely to be 16" & upwards, & Hankook's K135 will be used.
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: mr9 on November 11, 2023, 14:17
Dilema:

Just moved back to the UK and getting th mr2 back on the road.
I now get a car through work which will be my sensible car so the mr2 can be a bit more fun and less practical.

I want to put track orientatated tyres on but for the next few months my girlfriend will be using it around town and occasional longer trips in the winter as her car.


Current tyres:
Front: Toyo Proxes T1-R 195/50 R15 which have loads of tread but have been on th car 7.5 years now and have some micro cracks on the shoulder

Rear: conti premium contact 2, r16 which have been on for 2.5 years  and loads of tread left - these were a  last minute replacement and the best a available.



Should I stick with as is for a few months and move both axles to something like the ad08r?

Replace the fronts with conti premium contact  2s which for sure will then outlast the rears

Or replace the fronts with some ad08s now - I see they have good wet weather reviews but not not great for winter - it's not going anywhere in the snow or ice but going to be driven in the UK cold and wouldn't want the fronts to be lacking grip without a warm up lap every morning


Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: Petrus on November 13, 2023, 17:25
I´d go for a matching set of the Contis up front for the gf. They are available in 185/55 R15 82 T so ...
Title: Re: Tyre Tyres Tyres - Add your tyre reviews to the ROC database
Post by: tow on March 4, 2024, 08:49
If you can wait, go for Yoko AD09. The correct (OEM facelift) dimensions will be available later this year.