Track tyres

[HSV271]

Hi Guy's

I have been to a couple of track days and loved every minute of it. Namley Wakefield late last year(Before I got got sick) & Oran Park with the HSV Owners Club in March and have torn shreds/chunks off my road tyres. I really can't afford to keep doing this so I went looking for track tyres for the clubby over the last few weeks.

Now I get that I will need some rims, cheap ones, nothing to flash as I have too many work commitments to do track days every month so can't take myself too seriously and have budgeted for about ~1k for that.

I have done some searching here and on other forums, called a couple of people and the prices I am getting for 225-235-245/40ZR18's, either in RE55's, Toyo R888's even Falken is between $470-510 each :yike:. I haven't tried a Dunlop tyre distributor yet.

My question is... Is the cost of the tyres really that much???.. or am I missing something :confused:.

Any help / guidance would be appreciated people.

Thanks,
Bill

[35R]

I like the RE55's - in 18" they are about $410~$420 each from http://www.kymdavistyres.com.au - plus about $15 shippping to Sydney (per tyre). And yes expect to pay about $500+ for the same tyre in Sydney. We had a group buy some time ago, but i think the saving wasnt huge. Btw we run a 225 RE55 on the front - to get some decent camber in. 245's on the rear. If you go to a 17" you can save a little more $$

[OZY 260]

HSV271, if you dont mind me asking where did you get your prices for the RE55s in sydney? I too amlooking at getting a set of semi slicks in 18s and am keen to see what you find out with them.

Thanx Brett

[35R]

The only authorised bridgestone distributor in Sydney is Gordon Levin (penrith) i believe - you will pay $50~$100 each more though - vs Kym Davis

[2 cylinders shy]

:nana: 245/40R18 = $405.00 down here in from protec or donnelans.
Out of curiosity what do the R888 go for up there?

[2 cylinders shy]

when i first started i got myself some second hand A048 for $60.00 a corner.
They lasted 2 trackdays.
My advice would be to find the Yoki Motorsport Dealer give them a call and see what they have.
Why i suggest yoki is that (whilst not being as good as RE55) they are the control tyre in a lot of catergories such as the BRUTES. The teams sometimes discard the tyres if they wont be good for a whole race even though theyd be fine for you or i.

[HSV271]

I like the RE55's - in 18" they are about $410~$420 each from http://www.kymdavistyres.com.au - plus about $15 shippping to Sydney (per tyre). And yes expect to pay about $500+ for the same tyre in Sydney. We had a group buy some time ago, but i think the saving wasnt huge. Btw we run a 225 RE55 on the front - to get some decent camber in. 245's on the rear. If you go to a 17" you can save a little more $$

Thanks for the link... will give them a buzz and see the prices. Can't go 17's on the front:(... I have the AP Racing 4spot brakes on the car :).

HSV271, if you dont mind me asking where did you get your prices for the RE55s in sydney? I too amlooking at getting a set of semi slicks in 18s and am keen to see what you find out with them.

Thanx Brett

Hey Brett and all.... This is what I nave been able to find out.

Blair's Tyres @ Peakhuhrst has Toyo R888's @ $481 & Falken Azenis RT215 @ $475
Gordon Leven @ Emu Plains has Bridgestone RE55's @ $480(225) & $500(245)
Gary's Motorsport @ Arndell Park has Dunlop DZ02-R/H compound's @... wait for it.... $625(245) :shock:, but they do have many used ones @ cheaper prices, unfortunately they have nothing in stock at the moment.

All above are xxx/40R18's and 17’s are ~ $100-150 cheaper.

Cheers, Bill

[OZY 260]

Thanx bill,
the dunlops arent cheap, think i'll try and avoid them. Any ideas as of yet what you intend on going with?

Brett

[HSV271]

:nana: 245/40R18 = $405.00 down here in from protec or donnelans.
Out of curiosity what do the R888 go for up there?

$405 for what tyre??? BTW I hate you IF that is for the Dunlop DZ02’s(joke) :lol:
Toyo R888=$480

when i first started i got myself some second hand A048 for $60.00 a corner.
They lasted 2 trackdays.
My advice would be to find the Yoki Motorsport Dealer give them a call and see what they have.
Why i suggest yoki is that (whilst not being as good as RE55) they are the control tyre in a lot of catergories such as the BRUTES. The teams sometimes discard the tyres if they wont be good for a whole race even though they’d be fine for you or i.

Good idea about hanging around the BRUTES or other categories, but I don’t think many of them use 18’s... I think the brutes use 17’s.

Unless I am mistaken the authorised Yokohama Motorsport tyre place in Sydney is Gordon Leven @ Emu Plains and has Yokohama A048's @ $534 :(

Thanx bill,
the dunlops arent cheap, think i'll try and avoid them. Any ideas as of yet what you intend on going with?

Brett

Yeah Dunlop’s @ $625 a corner I think is out of the question... I am only a part time track hoon :driving:.

Kim Davis Tyres @ Magill/SA has Bridgestone RE55's /SR compound @ $440 and delivery is ~$20/tyre to Sydney overnight with TNT.


I got NO idea what to do, I think I need to digest the info a little and make a choice. Personally I would like to go with RE55 only because of all the great reviews I hear about this tyre but the Toyo R888 I have heard is great as well.

The issue is that I didn’t expect the prices to be as high as they are for these types of tyres, which is what is bothering me!!! Maybe I was just being naive thinking they would be more like street tyres @ around the $300 mark not closer to $500 or more.

Thanks for the comments guy's, keep them coming.

Cheers, Bill :confused:

[2 cylinders shy]

$405.00 or $425.00 for RE55 i cant remember, ill let you know exactly on Saturday as i will be ordering another set.

I thought the utes had gone up a size now?

Your other option is to go to a tyre in the low performance semi/high performance road tyre (something with a treadwear rating 150-180) like the RS-2, 595rs or RT615. whilst these wont give you the best outright laptime the will enable you to have some fun and consistancy. They will last longer, are generally cheaper (RS-2 can be had for $295.00) and if you want you could run these on the street (depending on your klm) and track.



Good idea about hanging around the BRUTES or other categories, but I don’t think many of them use 18’s... I think the brutes use 17’s.

Unless I am mistaken the authorised Yokohama Motorsport tyre place in Sydney is Gordon Leven @ Emu Plains and has Yokohama A048's @ $534

Sorry, i meant i gave the yoki dealer a call to see what they have 2nd hand (thats were i got mine) as they tyres back from race teams.

[35R]

The other thing to appreciate is when your track experience is limited you tend to go through more tyres. when you get more experience the wear tends to get "better" as driving improves. I used to literally destroy the shoulders of my RE55's in one or two track days. I guess the point is perhaps find some second hand tyres for now before you spend the big bucks on a new set?

Erik and i actually drove to melbourne to get two sets of A048's off the V8 Utes down there a year or two ago. The guy who sells them actually visits Wakefield Park (when the utes have a round there) and he could probably bring some up and you could meet him there.

I believe the V8 Utes have recently stepped up to 18":

http://www.v8utes.com.au/index.php?page_id=53

Might be worth investigating i reckon...

Erik do you remember the guys name/number?

[Duffman]

The issue is that I didn’t expect the prices to be as high as they are for these types of tyres, which is what is bothering me!!! Maybe I was just being naive thinking they would be more like street tyres @ around the $300 mark not closer to $500 or more.

I thought that they(RE55) seemed like pretty decent value considering the more track focused street tyres, such as P Zero Corsa's, are well over $700 per tyre. Sure you wouldn't get as much use out of the RE55's, but i'm guessing the extra grip would be worth it. Although if you went through a set in one track day as Dunc mentioned, the cost of that single outing could end up being over $2000 including fuel and trackhire :eek:

[2 cylinders shy]

This is the palce i got my 2nd hand yokies.
perhaps this is were you got yours also LSX-438 ???
www.tractiontyres.com.au
PH. (03) 9764 2811
sales@tractiontyres.com.au

[35R]

This is the palce i got my 2nd hand yokies.
perhaps this is were you got yours also LSX-438 ???
www.tractiontyres.com.au
PH. (03) 9764 2811
sales@tractiontyres.com.au

Yep i think that's the one. Paid around $50~$100 a tyre i think, depening on tyre condition. 18"'s might command more i dunno.

[35R]

I thought that they(RE55) seemed like pretty decent value considering the more track focused street tyres, such as P Zero Corsa's, are well over $700 per tyre. Sure you wouldn't get as much use out of the RE55's, but i'm guessing the extra grip would be worth it. Although if you went through a set in one track day as Dunc mentioned, the cost of that single outing could end up being over $2000 including fuel and trackhire :eek:

For an open day (at say Wakefield) - where i would be doing 60 or 70 laps - a full set would last maybe 3 to 4 track days (so about 300-350 laps). That's a lot of laps. With supersprints, we might do only 15-20 laps in total for a round (full day). So a set of tyres will last much much longer in that situation. I think the most important thing is to listen and feel what's going on with the tyres - as soon as you feel understeer and the rubber gouging into the tarmac - you are over-driving the car (which is what i was doing a lot!) you need to then back off to preserve the tyres.

[BAD364]

Has anyone used the Toyo R888's at the drags ? I can get a set way up here in the Isa for a good price and was thinking about putting a set on the back for the drags (245/40/18) Would I have problems running them on the back and my normal Toyo proxxes 4's on the front ? Any feedback would be great.

[HSV271]

Small update... Dropped into Bob Jane T-Marts/Haberfield and spoke to Steve regarding cheap rims to put these track tyres on(They have a sale on). Gave me a great deal with the rims $478... the lot, YES!!! 4 BRAND NEW 18x8 rims@$119=$476. :shock:

Then got talking about how expensive track/semi slick tyres are and he said he could supply a number of tyres. Mostly Pirrelli/Yokohama/Bridgestone(No Toyo's I'm afraid BAD346) and gave me this rundown.

Pirelli 235/40R18@$719 each, R spec tyre
Yoki A048 235/40R18@$510 each, R spec tyre
Bridgestone RE55 225/40R18 @ $410 each, SR spec tyre

[GTS Listy]

I found these advertised on e-bay. Anyone heard of them or any feedback. Thought they might be a cheep option for those that do a track day once in a blue moon. Also might be handy for practice tyres

kumho Ku 36 ECSTA for $280 each in 18x235x40. No idea about the company as I never used them.
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=280258030585&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=018

[VooDoo]

some others to concider

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/265-35-18-FALKEN-RT615-RACE-SEMI-SLICK-TYRES-BRAND-NEW_W0QQitemZ260274454501QQihZ016QQcategoryZ42614Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/225-40-18-FALKEN-RT615-RACE-SEMI-SLICK-TYRES-BRAND-NEW_W0QQitemZ360080753789QQihZ023QQcategoryZ66471Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

and Some for Mark aka HSV105

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Yokohama-18-315-30-K8861-98Y-A048E-Tyres-Semi-slicks_W0QQitemZ180277293611QQihZ008QQcategoryZ426 14QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[blown ls1]

[QUOTE=LSX-438;29277]The other thing to appreciate is when your track experience is limited you tend to go through more tyres. when you get more experience the wear tends to get "better" as driving improves. I used to literally destroy the shoulders of my RE55's in one or two track days. I guess the point is perhaps find some second hand tyres for now before you spend the big bucks on a new set?

Erik and i actually drove to melbourne to get two sets of A048's off the V8 Utes down there a year or two ago. The guy who sells them actually visits Wakefield Park (when the utes have a round there) and he could probably bring some up and you could meet him there.

I believe the V8 Utes have recently stepped up to 18":

hi all ive just purchased 2 full sets of yoky control brute ute tyres which are 225 for $600 and yes they are 18s finding a contact in the field is the key

thanx will

[GTS Listy]

They seem ok too. Just looking at the Kumho they seem to have a more track focused tread pattern. That could mean something and it may not. They come in 275s too and pretty cheap.

[ghz28]

You very much tend to get what you pay for with track tyres......

gh

[seldo]

You very much tend to get what you pay for with track tyres......

gh
Now, there's a man who's learned the hard way...
Ever heard the quote " There's no such thing as a free lunch" ( Malcolm Fraser). Never a true-er word spoken!
If you want top rubber, expect to pay top price. Tyres, a bit like veggies, deteriorate over time, and - the fresher- the better. So - cheap, often means old and past use-by-date.

[ghz28]

"Tyres, a bit like veggies, deteriorate over time, and - the fresher- the better. So - cheap, often means old and past use-by-date."

Yes this is true, and I can see and feel it happening with my A048s right now.
After using them for nearly a year lap times had started to rise, along with the incessant squealing in corners, so new tyres fitted and what a difference.
A048s now consigned to general running around duties until they are worn out.

Also I am a little dismayed to find the manufacture date, stamped into the carcass, of the new 18" RE55s as 3707, which means they are already almost 12 months old. For those wanting to check their tyres, look for a patch heat branded into the sidewall with just a 4 digit code as above, gives week and year of manufacture.

A friend has just bought new 17" RE55s and his are 0908, so much fresher and you can feel the difference in the tread rubber, both are the same compound, SR.

Garry

[GTS Listy]

Do the RE55 have the same heat cycles as the AO48.
When i used the AO48 they still had plenty of tread after 6 to 8 months of events but they seem to loose grip and I found that after each even I was getting worse and worse understeer. When i called the rep they said AO48 have a 20 to 25 heat cycle life. Basically after 20 odd races (not race days) they are going to get worse with grip.

[ghz28]

Yes I believe it to be so, after making some enquiries this morning.

So will have to be a bit more careful with $450 odd tyres in future I guess.

But I will continue using them until they no longer perform, but that info does add another angle to why used tyres with lots of tread come up for sale quite regularly.

It also could just come down to "ultimate grip". From my experience, A048 is an average semi slick, RE55 a step above that, but many people say that if you want to win Dunlop DZ is the way to go, if you can afford the price. In my case more than $100 per tyre more expensive than the RE55. Not economical at the level I am playing that's for sure.

gh

[.charged.]

Yes I believe it to be so, after making some enquiries this morning.

So will have to be a bit more careful with $450 odd tyres in future I guess.

But I will continue using them until they no longer perform, but that info does add another angle to why used tyres with lots of tread come up for sale quite regularly.

It also could just come down to "ultimate grip". From my experience, A048 is an average semi slick, RE55 a step above that, but many people say that if you want to win Dunlop DZ is the way to go, if you can afford the price. In my case more than $100 per tyre more expensive than the RE55. Not economical at the level I am playing that's for sure.

gh

We use the 48r in IP and there shit, only good for about 20 heat cycles and their stuffed, plus we get reamed on price here in Australia. The tyre I run a HUGE 185/60/13 cost about $240 with our rebate supposedly but I can get the same tyre in the US for about $60.... We cant import them though as if we use OS tyres we breach our contract with Yokohama Aust.:doh:

If I was you guys seeing you dont need to use a Aussie supplier as you dont race in a series, I would look at importing some tyres from the states on a group buy/bulk sale type arrangement. It would work out heaps cheaper for tyres.

The tyre tender is up this year so hopefully we get a new supplier

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/_Car-Truck-Parts-Accessories__185-60R13-Yokohama-ADVAN-A048-Tire-185-60-R-13-Race_W0QQitemZ250282301022QQadnZCarQ20Q26Q20TruckQ 20PartsQ20Q26Q20AccessoriesQQadiZ2865QQcmdZViewIte m?_trksid=p4506.m20.l1116

[lautray]

From my experience, A048 is an average semi slick, RE55 a step above that, but many people say that if you want to win Dunlop DZ is the way to go, if you can afford the price.
In our supersprints, majority of the quick cars are on RE55, with our class leader on a soft Kumho V70A. He often wins days outright on these.

[Pulse Red]

My mate who races a Lotus Elise speaks very highly of the Kumho tyres for what that is worth.

[seldo]

In case some of you guys may have missed it, this thread may solve some of your wheel problems.
http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=104663

[GTS Listy]

I have a feeling that price is about to go up considering they are proberbly the only set able to do for the VE HSV brakes. $3200 lots on cash though for second set of wheels but then again not much choice. Although they are in the same price range as custom made Simmons then so really not a big deal. If they were $1000 different story

People I called incuding IPRA and dozens of wheel places said you can not get 18x9 to go over the big brakes for commodoes unless you go 3 piece. I found them with a bit of a fight. Guard mods required although but this would be still required with 3 piece. Still $800 odd for 4 not bad.

Has anyone tried the BMW style wheels similar to the M5 style I got on a VE HSV. I have so much room between caliper and spokes it is not funny. Stacks on the side too.

[GTS Listy]

The other thing is maybe someone might ask Voodoo real nice and he might let you try his M5 18 x 8 on a VE HSV. They might fit. Can not see why they should not. I dont know anyone up here with a new HSV but when I do I will try the 18 x 9 on it and see what the outcome is.

[VooDoo]

Dunno if the holes are big enough for the 14mmm VE studs but ill have a try. They are on the Adventra atm :D

[GTS Listy]

Good point. May not be so good without mods.

Edit. Just measured my M5 copies as they are off the car atm and the holes are 14mm so should be fine to atleast test.

[VooDoo]

I like the RE55's - in 18" they are about $410~$420 each from http://www.kymdavistyres.com.au - plus about $15 shippping to Sydney (per tyre). And yes expect to pay about $500+ for the same tyre in Sydney. We had a group buy some time ago, but i think the saving wasnt huge. Btw we run a 225 RE55 on the front - to get some decent camber in. 245's on the rear. If you go to a 17" you can save a little more $$

Site is gone, google shows nothing either...

Where is everyone getting tyres these days? I need a set for the track day next week.

[35R]

Stu,

Last set i purchased were actually the Dunlops, which i didnt really fancy compared to the Bridgestone/RE55's (maybe i was just used to the way RE55's drive). So i havent bought RE55's for a while. That's odd with Kym Davis disappearing like that, anyway have a look here for more dealers:

http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/motorsport/outlets.aspx

And here are the RRP for RE55:

http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/motorsport/RE55s.aspx

I would think you should be able to get about $50 off those prices (per tyre) however it's been about 6 months since i bought a set.

(I would try calling the kym davis number in the link above, they might still be around, and they were the cheapest we could find).

[ghz28]

Hi Stu,

normally Tyretech at Albion get mine for me, but they can take a week to get them from Adelaide, they keep nothing in stock. Recently they have been cheaper than the other mob, over at Cooparoo, name I forget but starts with A......

Locally you will get Dunlops, but pay through the nose for them, from QR. Or I think Toyo and Kuhmo local dealers tend to keep 18s. The local Kuhmo dealer is Hornibrook mechanical, Craig and Janine....ala SCCC member.

I just bit the bullet and got a set of Dunlop D11 slicks and ordered a set of wets, both in 17 though, saves $100 per tyre.

Garry

[2 cylinders shy]

Stu,

Last set i purchased were actually the Dunlops, which i didnt really fancy compared to the Bridgestone/RE55's (maybe i was just used to the way RE55's drive). So i havent bought RE55's for a while. That's odd with Kym Davis disappearing like that, anyway have a look here for more dealers:

http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/motorsport/outlets.aspx

And here are the RRP for RE55:

http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/motorsport/RE55s.aspx

I would think you should be able to get about $50 off those prices (per tyre) however it's been about 6 months since i bought a set.

(I would try calling the kym davis number in the link above, they might still be around, and they were the cheapest we could find).

Is that really what the RE55's are going for now??? $550.00 for 18"
Has anyone bought some recently? Maybe we should try and organise a group buy or something. if anyones interested i could approach someone in Melbourne. That dosent help Voodoo atm but you will find that there is a shop on Ebay that is selling R888 really cheaply.

[ghz28]

I last bought two sets of 4 back in October and they were $450 each fitted and balanced, here in Brisbane.

Was about to buy Hoosiers, but then the dollar crashed and they went from the low 4s to mid 5s each overnight so I went for the Dunlop slicks at $400 each.

From my experience up here, and looking at who is winning sprints at QR, seems Hoosier is the tyre of choice for mid to heavy vehicles, but many series do not consider them to be a valid street tyre.

Oh and the guys who use them say they do not ball up and strip off like the RE55s

Garry



Is that really what the RE55's are going for now??? $550.00 for 18"
Has anyone bought some recently? Maybe we should try and organise a group buy or something. if anyones interested i could approach someone in Melbourne. That dosent help Voodoo atm but you will find that there is a shop on Ebay that is selling R888 really cheaply.

[GTS Listy]

RE55 the best price I found was this mob
http://www.donnellans.com.au/pages/7_locations.php#
or try here
All his details are on here at Gary motorsport tyres but as with Kim Davis there is something wrong with the links and web sites.
http://www.motorsportworld.com.au/outlets/garys/index.htm

Also check the ricer forums in the deals as some companies sponsor the sites and give some good discounts. Like 300z, Plannet soura, GTR forums. Just search the internet under price and tyre brand they normally will come up.

and here is a list of other suppliers you could try and get good prices off and compare
Some general information on simislicks
http://autospeed.com/cms/A_2912/article.html

And a bunch or other suppliers for semi and full slicks. Also keep an eye out on e-bay for good deals. Remember not a good idea to buy tyres more than 2 years old. Always check the dates with the supplier or the bloke you buy them off. Never presume a good price is just because they are nice.
http://www.tracksidetyres.com.au/potenza_re55s.html
http://www.amecautocare.com.au/bridgestonetyres.htm
Kym Davis tyres but there is something wrong with the links as mentioned above.
http://www.mmsport.com.au/productvie...o_R_Spec_Tyres

[GTS Listy]

Can we add where to get new and second hand slicks to this please. I have no idea where to start other than e-bay and my105

[Dave R]

Dunlop D03's are probably the best semi slicks you can get... much better then all the others (i have tried both, re55 and r888 and all the ip guys tell me how shit the A048's are)

[VooDoo]

DUNLOP SP Supersport Race 235/40R18:
Good in all conditions wet or dry, also quiet enough for road use.
Special price of $475 (normally $585).
DUNLOP DZ02G 245/40R18:
These are on special at $500 (normally $635).
Best performance on track, a little noisy for road use. This tyre will outperform both BS and Toyo!
Toyos will cost $503 for 235 and $519 for 245.


Shipping from MElb

[GTS Listy]

Good prices there voodoo. Is that through your contacts or a shop that we call. Can they do a better price on the 18x265/275 versions too. Gee at that price do I go the dunlops DZ02G or RE55. Good saving.

Yes I agree the supersports race are as quiet as a normal street tyre on the road for normal road use and are fine in the wet. I use them for track days now. Good choice for those that dont want to run semis and street tyres. Will wear a bit quicker but as long as you dial up the camber before race days and put back to street settings after they should be fine.

I am due for a new set but proberbly will have to wait until the start of the season in end of Feb.

[GTS Listy]

Few more links I found on a saved document from ages ago. Just need to check them and they still are around. Slicks included

http://www.uniqueautosports.com/

Stukey Tyre Services
Traction Tyre Center
Falkens and others from Tempe tyres. They do direct imports every so often and do group buys at good prices apparently.

http://www.europeantechnique.com.au/michelin/Tyres/slick%20wet.htm
http://www.europeantechnique.com.au/swan/index.htm
Swan tyres do track tyres too both slicks and semi slicks
http://www.europeantechnique.com.au/
http://www.aussieweb.com.au/directory/directory.aspx?cid=4735&lid=35635

Also for those with the VE GTS or the 20x9.5 rears the Dunlop SP supersports come in that size. No luck with the fronts though. Bit more grip with lots of power or you want to do a drag night. I have never tested these on the drag strip. I will soon but. (18x265 only)
http://www.stuckey.com.au/tyres_details.aspx?TyreName=SP%20SUPER%20SPORT

[VooDoo]

getting some Federal 959 RSR's @ $388ea on Tuesday morning. Cutting it REALLY fine as the track day starts at 12 noon.

Found my new widened ROH 19's no longer fit the GTO or the Adventra. Rears hit the guard on the GTO and fronts hit the brakes on the Adventra... GGRRRR. Now i have to get the rear guards pumped or fit different brakes to the LX8.

[35R]

595's?

sounds pretty cheap, will be interesting to hear how they go.

Out of interest has anyone tried Toyo R888?

[GTS Listy]

getting some Federal 959 RSR's @ $388ea on Tuesday morning. Cutting it REALLY fine as the track day starts at 12 noon.

Found my new widened ROH 19's no longer fit the GTO or the Adventra. Rears hit the guard on the GTO and fronts hit the brakes on the Adventra... GGRRRR. Now i have to get the rear guards pumped or fit different brakes to the LX8.

That sucks Voodoo. Guard pumping can be cheap but can be not so cheap too I heard. Even with a guard pump at the top lots of wheel can still stick out the rest of the guard as it does on mine after the guard pump

[OZY 260]

595's?

sounds pretty cheap, will be interesting to hear how they go.

Out of interest has anyone tried Toyo R888?

Dunc we have R888's, however havent tried any other brand to compare them to. Seem to work quite well and am told they generally have a better life span then the bridgestone RE55's

[35R]

Dunc we have R888's, however havent tried any other brand to compare them to. Seem to work quite well and am told they generally have a better life span then the bridgestone RE55's

Cheers Brett. I've been eyeing up some 315/30/18's on each corner for my next track toy.

[NickS]

Cheers Brett. I've been eyeing up some 315/30/18's on each corner for my next track toy.

Why waste the money mate ... I'm betting she'll work pretty well on the factory rubber ... :yep:

[35R]

Why waste the money mate ... I'm betting she'll work pretty well on the factory rubber ... :yep:

I think 20" factory bridgestone RE070R's would be more $$ than 18" R888's or RE55's.. i'm planning on going through a few sets (plus the Toyos and RE55's are CAMS approved for production classes, not to mention a couple of seconds quicker i reckon).

[seldo]

Cheers Brett. I've been eyeing up some 315/30/18's on each corner for my next track toy.What size rim are you fitting those on?

[35R]

What size rim are you fitting those on?

I think 10.5" or 11"

[seldo]

I think 10.5" or 11"That's good ;)

[GTS Listy]

Are Bridgestone potenza Re-01R a racing semi slick or are they just a road tyre with harder sidewalls. On the web sites it seems they are used for racing and drifting.

[2 cylinders shy]

They are in the group with the ultra high performance street tyres. Not in the same league as RE55, A048, R888, DJ???

They are comparable to yokohamas AD07, and bridgestones own RE70 (ala WRX STI & JDM Civic typeR)

Also note that they are being fased out and replaced by RE11
http://cybermax.jp/blog/images/re-11.jpg

you could probably group falkens RT615 and Federals 595rsr with them to.

Usually used by guys who do minimal klms in there cars (ocasional weekend blast) and dont change there tyres at the track.

http://www.honda.co.jp/CIVICTYPE-R/webcatalog/tire-brake/potenza02/potenza02.jpghttp://images.paultan.org/pic_ad07_01.jpg

[GTS Listy]

They have a set in 18x265 only ordered in by some bloke that did not pay so I thought they might do for this seasons racing. If they are not proper semi slicks it would be a waste.

[2 cylinders shy]

They have a set in 18x265 only ordered in by some bloke that did not pay so I thought they might do for this seasons racing. If they are not proper semi slicks it would be a waste.

Depends on how much of a discount you can get.

[GTS Listy]

$800 for the set but it really does not matter as i dont get proper semi slick grip and they dont perform then waste of $800.

I will wait for a bit and get the dunlops or RE55. Got a month to decide.

We have a open track day on the 22 Feb but I will use my old tyres for that and get some new ones for the first round in march. Should be interesting seeing how well I go with 265s the premium semi slicks dunlops or bridgestones.

Mission this year with cam, new tyres etc is to get into the 1.23s around the valley consistently with a 1.22 every now and then. We will see.

[VooDoo]

Bridgestone is about to release a replacement to the RE55 in Japan (coming in the next 3-4 weeks)

[2 cylinders shy]

Bridgestone is about to release a replacement to the RE55 in Japan (coming in the next 3-4 weeks)

Are you talking about the RE11s type RS?
http://ms.bridgestone.co.jp/ms_tyre2/common/images/main.jpg

http://www.bridgestone.co.jp/tire/potenza_re11s/images/graph01.gif

Most 18" and 17" sizes went on sale in Japan on 01/12/08

[35R]

Are you talking about the RE11s type RS?
http://ms.bridgestone.co.jp/ms_tyre2/common/images/main.jpg

http://www.bridgestone.co.jp/tire/potenza_re11s/images/graph01.gif

Most 18" and 17" sizes went on sale in Japan on 01/12/08

Interesting, any 19 or 20" for this one?

[2 cylinders shy]

Interesting, any 19 or 20" for this one?

Sorry, it does not look like it.
17 sizes will be offered total from 14 to 18 inch diameter and 35-60 series.

Also it there are only two sizes in 18" 265/35 and 245/40

[GTS Listy]

Bit more info on them

http://www.skylinesaustralia.com/forums/Yokie-Ao50-Re11s-Bridges-t249710.html

It says in there 43000 jpn yen for a tyre 18x265x35. About $762 aussie plus import fees. Costly.

[GTS Listy]

E-mail from Tire Rack

Give or take 18x265x35 will be around $500 a tyre incl shipping to aus for the new RE11

Hi Tony,

Bridgestone is not bringing the Re55 to us here in North America. We are getting the Re11, which will be introduced here in about a month.
The North American version of the Re11 is, according to Bridgestone, updated from the JDM version to be faster in competitive driving events.
They will be $288 each when they arrive. Shipping on a set will usually be a few hundred dollars.

Best Regards,

Ben Rooney | Retail Sales Specialist
__________________________________________________ ________

The Tire Rack
7101 Vorden Parkway
South Bend, IN 46628
O: 888 428 8355 ext. 660
O: 574 287 2345 ext. 660
F: 574 236 7707
ben@tirerack.com

http://www.tirerack.com

[2 cylinders shy]

Listy, is that for the normal RE11s or the type RS?
For $3,000.00++++ you could have you pick of any of the proper semis.

[GTS Listy]

They are the RE11s proper semis. I actually sent a e-mail back to confirm that. $288 us. $1152 for 4. Add $300 freight and the us exchange rate. About $500 each tyre.

At that price you just get them in aus but they wont be here for a while. Just thinking it would be cool to try a new release tyre and be one of the first private people in aus to try them

[2 cylinders shy]

I based the $3000.00 price on
Give or take 18x265x35 will be around $500 a tyre incl shipping to aus for the new RE11

asuming the $500.00 is in US dollars

AUD500 x 1.55 = USD775 x 4 = 3100 per set plus tax

[GTS Listy]

I based the $3000.00 price on


asuming the $500.00 is in US dollars

AUD500 x 1.55 = USD775 x 4 = 3100 per set plus tax

This is how I worked it out.
$288 usd x 4. Total of $1152 usd. Add $300 usd freight. Total of $1452 usd.

Convert to au dollars with the exchange rate variation it is about $2000 australian dollars give or take a little delivered to my door. Add is some import fees so $2250 should cover it. It is about the same I would pay in Australia so other than using something new it is not really worth it $ wise.

[GTS Listy]

My tyre searching is over. I now have 4 RE55 in 18x265/35 on their way up to Darwin. All for a ripe of sum of $1300. Brand new straight from Donnellans Preston. They have a special on RE55 going. Not sure what sizes though but the 265 in 18 yes they have some.
Presume for the new ones comming out. If they dont drop the price check e-bay.

[GTS Listy]

My tyre searching is over. I now have 4 RE55 in 18x265/35 on their way up to Darwin. All for a ripe of sum of $1300. Brand new straight from Donnellans Preston. They have a special on RE55 going. Not sure what sizes though but the 265 in 18 yes they have some.
Presume for the new ones comming out. If they dont drop the price check e-bay.

Might add that these do retail on the brigestone site for $628 each. Good deal I think. Always good to save that much money. I got the RE55s too so no idea what the difference there is but not fussed.

[GTS Listy]

Sorry about the repeat post. I found the e-bay link after a search

http://shop.ebay.com.au/merchant/tyres837

[35R]

damn that IS cheap, 1/2 price :):)

[BigJim]

Sorry about the repeat post. I found the e-bay link after a search

http://shop.ebay.com.au/merchant/tyres837

Listy how are you gonna fit these under your VX. Ive had the 245 RE55s and there bloody wide as and only just fit my GTO. The 265 would have no chance on my car without some serious gaurd pumping.

I would love to buy a set at that price to but i have no chance of fitting them to my car.

These are a great buy

[GTS Listy]

Listy how are you gonna fit these under your VX. Ive had the 245 RE55s and there bloody wide as and only just fit my GTO. The 265 would have no chance on my car without some serious gaurd pumping.

I would love to buy a set at that price to but i have no chance of fitting them to my car.

These are a great buy

Easy now but it took lots of research. I have used these wheels for the last 6 months for racing days. Work great. I have dunlops and the tread is about 275 actual width same as the re55.
How to is to get +20 offset wheels 18x9 M5 copies ($900). For the fronts they stick out but dial in around -3.5 to -4 degrees camber and they sit nice and flush. The front of my car does sit a bit higher but I needed that for weight transfer so the fronts dont need to go under the guards under corner loads. You have limitless -camber with the +20 offset wheels too. Also the M5 copies in the +20 fit the big 6 pot AP racing brakes. You can see it was a challenge getting it right being up here.

For the back I did a guard roll and a small guard pump. Was not expensive at all either. I have some photos in the GTS thread. The top of the wheel does comes under the guard under corner loads. The Teins are set a bit lower on the back. Lots of grip too out of 265 on the fronts. The RE55 should be better again.

Also look into the 3 series copies wheels as those offsets can be pretty good for camber and getting bigger rubber under the guards. Available in 18x8.0, 8.5 or 9.5.

[GTS Listy]

He has a set of 285x18 too for those with the 9.5 rims. Imagine the grip. :woohoo:

[BigJim]

Easy now but it took lots of research. I have used these wheels for the last 6 months for racing days. Work great. I have dunlops and the tread is about 275 actual width same as the re55.
How to is to get +20 offset wheels 18x9 M5 copies ($900). For the fronts they stick out but dial in around -3.5 to -4 degrees camber and they sit nice and flush. The front of my car does sit a bit higher but I needed that for weight transfer so the fronts dont need to go under the guards under corner loads. You have limitless -camber with the +20 offset wheels too. Also the M5 copies in the +20 fit the big 6 pot AP racing brakes. You can see it was a challenge getting it right being up here.

For the back I did a guard roll and a small guard pump. Was not expensive at all either. I have some photos in the GTS thread. The top of the wheel does comes under the guard under corner loads. The Teins are set a bit lower on the back. Lots of grip too out of 265 on the fronts. The RE55 should be better again.

Also look into the 3 series copies wheels as those offsets can be pretty good for camber and getting bigger rubber under the guards. Available in 18x8.0, 8.5 or 9.5.

Might have to look into these 18x9 with the 20 offset then.

[VooDoo]

Jim, you can use my 18x8 M5 rims if you want to test fit / trail them. They didnt fit my GTO but i havent rolled the guards or done anything to the rears (with 245 wide tyres) and the alignment is street setup atm too (more room when setup for track)

[Poptimus]

Does anybody know what wheel & tyre size you can fit under the back of VE commodore?

Cheers

[GTS Listy]

285s are common on the 9.5 HSV or similar rims. Some run up to 10.5 on the back with 305 tyres (3 peice or BMW wheels). Right offsets and a guard roll with the wider ones. How low you go will matter too.

If it is track tyres that would be about 285 backs.

[sonic]

Mate as said in another thread I have 4 x hankook z221s semi slicks for sale. 265/35/18 size and soft compound. 3 tracks days in them ( if you don't fry them of course), very few heat cycles only used for 6 x 15 min tack sessions. These tyres retail for $570 per tyre minimum. I want $1200 for the set. Pm me if you're interested.

[Poptimus]

285s are common on the 9.5 HSV or similar rims. Some run up to 10.5 on the back with 305 tyres (3 peice or BMW wheels). Right offsets and a guard roll with the wider ones. How low you go will matter too.

If it is track tyres that would be about 285 backs.

BMW stud pattern fits VE hubs? Thats news. I have nice 285 on the back for the street but the 305s sound like the way to go on "business days".

Cheers GTS LISTY

Epic commodore by the way man

[GTS Listy]

BMW stud pattern fits VE hubs? Thats news. I have nice 285 on the back for the street but the 305s sound like the way to go on "business days".

Cheers GTS LISTY

Epic commodore by the way man

Just speak to the tyre shop with the right hub rings for BMW wheels. Might have to get some custom make depending on the BMW whees but generally $25 each ring. 305 around the 10.5 inch wide rim.