Jonanator

Ok, here is my problem.

I bought some new rims and rubber for my car and now I want to keep the AP1 rims for the track. My issue is that I have about 65-70% rubber left on the stock S02's up front, but the rears are completely bald. Since I am cheap, can someone recommend a tire that I can buy for the rears that will work decently well with the stock S02's in the front? I looked at Falken Azenis, but I couldn't find a size that fits the rear. Also keep in mind that I will be using this setup for the track.

Thanks in advance,
Jonathan

CRDMS1

Depends what you're trying to accomplish on the track but...your options for a track-worthy AP1 rear STREET compound in the correct sizing are EXTREMELY limited. Other than the OEM, I've only had (limited) success with the 245/45/16 Hankook RS-2. They grease way too quickly and don't settle quickly in the corners. Like I said...it depends what you're trying to accomplish.

If I were you, I would put on the Hankook rears and save money to go with an R-compound like the Toyo RA1 on all 4 corners.

Jim@tirerack

The best I know of for the money is the Kumho MX. I really don't think the track is the place to go for tires that work decently though. If I can help let me know.

Jonanator

Well, I have no track experience and I plan to take my S2000 out for the first time this year. I read that it is best to learn on street tires for the first few sessions, is that true? I really just don't want to splurge on some expensive super grippy tires and not use them to their full potential on my first couple track days.

So in my case, I should go with kumho MX or the hankoo rs2 in the rear with S02 up front?

CRDMS1

If you're going to the track for the first time...any street tire will work as long as you have sufficient tread depth. The tech inspection should cover that in detail. Get the Hankooks, they're relatively inexpensive and will cover your immediate needs. Make sure you get 245/45/16 to stay close to the stock stagger. The Kumho MX would be an excellent choice but the 225/50/16 aren't as wide as the stock S-02.

My advice is...relax and enjoy your first time out to the track. Listen to your instructor and take it easy. You'll find out soon enough if it's something that's right for you and THEN you can decide if you want grippier tires

Jonanator

So I won't totally destroy my cars handling if I get the Hankook's in the rear?

CRDMS1

Not so much that you'd be worried about it on the street or during your first track day. If you're tracking with a proper organization and have instruction, it's likely that handling at the limits will be the last of your concerns the first time out

Get the cheap tires and enjoy yourself! Just remember to get the 245/45/16 size instead of 225/50/16 for the rear. This should help prevent any additional oversteer bias from reduced stagger on the mismatched tires. Read the sticky at the top of this forum.

Jonanator

No where's the cheapest place to get the Hankooks? Doesn't seem like Tirerack sells the RS2 on their website..

CRDMS1

Try...

www.edgeracing.com

If Tirerack carried all tire manufacturers, I would buy from them 100% of the time. Their over-the-top service is just a fringe benefit on top of great prices. Jim is a great guy to talk to if you need advice regarding wheels, tires, etc. for the S2000

In fact, why don't you give Jim (@tirerack) a call just to check and see if he has something in the same price range as the Hankooks with similar performance. Just make sure you ask for 245/45/16 sizing. I view this as a non-negotiable detail unless you have specific mods to reduce oversteer bias in a setup with less stagger than stock.