[Z06] Another tire thread, need advice

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Sep 30, 2009 | 11:23 AM

BlackZ0SICK

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Intermediate

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From: Fairfax Virginia

Another tire thread, need advice

As much as I liked the stock tires out on the track, I'm thinking of switching out to a new tire. Mine are getting low on tread as it is, and I have an HPDE coming up in about a month.

The tire I currently have in mind is the Nitto NT05, just about every review/thread I've read on this is positive. It seems to be a fairly popular choice for the track guys, but is there any reason I shouldn't go with a tire like this? I plan on having a winter beater in a couple of months as well to do all the daily driving/snow so that shouldn't be a concern. My track experience is fairly limited (just an HPDE weekend) and I don't want to get a tire that isn't forgiving as I am a n00b.

Just hoping to get some experienced advice.

Thanks guys!
-Dan

Sep 30, 2009 | 11:47 AM

AU N EGL

Team Owner

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From: Raleigh / Rolesville NC

the Nitto NT05, are great tires for HPDEs.

Sep 30, 2009 | 02:30 PM

The Stranger

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How low is the tread? I would recommend sticking with the stock tires for the next event since you mentioned that you are new to the track experience.

Sep 30, 2009 | 04:02 PM

JimbeauZ06

Burning Brakes

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From: Bath PA

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Stranger

How low is the tread? I would recommend sticking with the stock tires for the next event since you mentioned that you are new to the track experience.

I ran on "street" tires for the first three seasons (20 plus days) of HPDE, before switching to DOT R-compounds. Some would argue that even that was too soon. Too many "noobs" go straight out after one or two events and buy Hoosiers, so at least you're ahead of the game there.

If your current tires are worn, the NT05 would probably be a reasonable replacement. They look cool, I just don't personally have experience with them or know anyone running them. The important thing is not to progress to R-comps until you have a lot more track time and your level of car control allows you to drive by feel and not the sound of screeching tires.

Sep 30, 2009 | 04:47 PM

BlackZ0SICK

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From: Fairfax Virginia

Oh I know to stay away from R compounds, I have no business running them yet, probably not until I'm in group 3.

They aren't R compounds, just a sticky street tire. My Stock goodyears are running pretty low on tread, and I'd like to get something a bit stickier. I'm not gonna be driving the car too often so tread life isn't a big deal.
-Dan

Sep 30, 2009 | 06:29 PM

Omaha02Z06

Melting Slicks

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NT05’s or Kumho XS’s but with the Nitto’s being cheaper it’s a no brainer.

Oct 2, 2009 | 04:51 PM

BlackZ0SICK

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From: Fairfax Virginia

. Problem is they dont seem to come in the stock sizing. I am curious as to which sizes would still fit on the stock wheels, and maybe even stretch them to stiffen the sidewalls slightly? Also is it appropriate to keep the front/rear staggered as they are? I came from an AWD car where all four tires were the same size, so this is all kinda new to me.

Thanks for the help!
-Dan

Oct 2, 2009 | 06:19 PM

Omaha02Z06

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275/40-17F and 295/35-18R for the Nitto's. 275/40-17R and 315/30-18R for the Kumho's. The Kumho's will have more grip but they are a lot more. As far as sizes a 315 is the largest you would want to put on the back and a 295 would be the largest up front for stock sized wheels. I know it's for autox but Super Stock C5 guys run 295/315's.

I came from AWD also what was your previous car?