chris2002

The specs, numbers (Tirerack) seem indicate that the RE-01R is superior to the RE050, S03 and probably the S02.

Is this the tire to use as a replacement for AP1 owners?

I really like the S-02, it is sticky and aggressive. The RE050 seems more sedate in comparison (Car and Driver test). The RE-01R seems to bring Bridgestone back to marketing a great race/performance tire.

Any problems using the RE-01R tire in 205/55-16 and 225/50-16 sizes?

Its numbers are superior to the Hankook R-S2 which is sticky, but has softer sidewalls and is not sold by Tirerack.

Any thoughts from those who might have actually used the RE-01R?

F1Turbo

I just bought a set of RE-01R's from Jim @ Tire Rack. I've had S03's and S02's, and I agree with you--the S02's are quicker in turn in and feel more responsive. Jim said a stock BMW 3 Series pulled 1.0g with the RE-01R. Also,the second R does NOT mean it's an R compound tire. Tread life should be about what S02's deliver.

negcamber

This has been discussed at least three times in the last 2 months. Also read the FAQ about tire sizes. Some think you'll be fine running a non-oem 225 at the rear especially the RE-01R. Others are more cautious and say you are taking a risk that has serious consequences. Only you know your driving skill and capability.

hyperpm

I have them. Compared to SO2, rear footprint is .1 smaller and front footprint is .5 larger. Very sticky. Turn in is fast and will be twitchy at first before you get used to it

aronparsons

So basically you've lost half of the stagger that the stock tires provide. I haven't driven on the RE-01R, but just recently went through the dilemma of selecting new tires; I ended up going with the Hankook RS2 even though people complain of the soft sidewall. I will find out firsthand next week how good/bad they are, but the $200 savings over S-02s is worth the gamble in my opinion. Aside from the S-02s, RS2s and the usual assortment of R-compounds (RA-1, A06, etc), there isn't much available for the AP1 that is sticky and provides the correct stagger. Of course you could ignore the stagger and use a front swaybar to correct the balance, but I'm not keen on the price of the bars for the S2000.

For reference, I've been on RE750s for nearly two years now, but want something that won't put me at a disadvantage in street tire AS for autocross. With the RS2s being comparable to the Azenis (which nearly everyone runs in ST classes), I hope to be on a level playing field now. And if the RS2s turn out to have sidewalls as soft as everyone says, it'll be S-02s next time (unless a new tire comes along in the 8-12K the RS2s will last).