I am planning on running my S2000 for the first time in an 1/8 mile event on Friday, March 31st. I currently have RT-615s. I have heard that this type of tire is bad for drag racing because the sidewall is so stiff. How "detrimental" will these tires be?

 

As opposed to what? Do you have any other tires you can mount between now and then? For drag racing you do want a softer sidewall than for actual driving.

 

I think the RT-615 will be okay since it's a fairly grippy street tire. Generally good autocross tires don't make good drag racing tires due to lack of sidewall flex and contact patch. But i don't think you'll be able to tell much of a difference between the 615's or any other street tire except maybe BF-G Gforce T/As.

Try them out, most people can get 2.0 on street tires if they're a good driver. If that still doesn't work go to a drag radial or small slick.

 

As opposed to me going out and buying two more rear wheels and some tires for them.

 

I dragged a good amount in my 14 second (not much power or torque) Neon with the RT-215 (predacessor to the 615). Found that 22-25psi was ideal and that pulling a 2.0-2.1 60' isn't too hard with them.

Should be fine. Make sure to drop the pressure though. My first run was at street pressure (35+ psi, can't remember anymore) and I spun my way to a 2.5 or 2.6 60'.

 

Then I would say run what you brung.