StarSpec vs Toyo R1R and RA1
 

I'm about ready for a new set of tires. Plan was to go with another set of StarSpecs (or perhaps Yok AD08's) in sizes F 225/40-18 and R 255/35-18.

However, I just came across a good deal on either Toyo RA1's's and R1R's, for about 30-40% less than their usual price.

I need to make sure about the sizes for the RA1's though, as currently, according to Toyo's web site, they don't come in this size. Perhaps they used to?

I know the RA1 is an R compound tire, and the R1R isn't, although their treadwear ratings are relatively close at 100 and 140.

How do you guys feel these tires compare with the StarSpecs or AD08's.

Thanks

*spec/thread -> Before I get flamed, there are many many conversations about these tires on here. Search if you're that interested.

This assumes an "all around tire"

Sorry, did a search, but didn't come up with much comparing the Star Specs specifically with the Toyo's. I did see stuff on each separately, but not compared directly, unless I missed it.

There are descriptions of each and what they are able in the context of how they are intended to be used. Without knowing how you intend to use them, it's impossible to say really.

Do you want to beat the crap out of them on track, have really consistent lap-times, last many lapping weekends, yet not be as quick as an A6, get the RA1 - especially if you don't plan to drive them on the street.

Do you want a tire that autoxes well, is a decent track day tire, and a great daily tire in warm to moderate climes, then get the *spec.

The R1R is not as good as either for anything except daily driving, since it will get you from A-B as well as any other Max Performance tire.

Track guys generally do not use R1R, but the AutoX guys do. From what I understand, the R1R is dual compound, and the initial compound is great, but the second compound is not.

Are you going to be dailying on these tires? If so, I would not go with the RA1, as they will heat cycle out very quickly if you daily drive them.

There is a TON of info, including discussion and detailed comparision in the STR thread, as applied to autocross.

If you're a track guy, definitely don't use the R1R on an s2000. They will overheat and go off much faster. They love cooler temps and light cars.

Of all that you listed, I would use that RA1 for a track tire. More grip, higher operating temperature, a great 20-30 minute session (or more) track tire. You could street them if you really want to ( i know guys that do on 350z's), but I wouldn't. The star spec is fully capable street tire, that you can beat the snot out of on track, though it will fall off sooner than the RA1.

Nick

Nick

r1r<888s<ao48s

Well, thanks for the suggestions guys. It looks like another set of StarSpecs (or AD-08's).

I'll be daily driving them and tracking them about 6-10 times per year. With maybe a half dozen auto x's as well. But, I drive about 20,000 miles a year. So...it looks like even though I can get the RA1's for less than usual, they'll still wear out my wallet too quick for daily driving.

Thanks again.

RA1 is the best street tire you can buy. I run them on my Evo. Got 35,000 miles out of a set. They are also far better track tires than R1R or Star Spec, but if you track them, they won't last very long as street tires. If you have a lot of street miles on them, they are no longer good for track.

I can confirm that is the case. I had a set of Toyo R1Rs and Star Specs last year for the local street tire class. They're both great tires, but their heat range barely overlap. Toyos are great in the cold and wet. Star Specs handle heat a little better.

If you're putting 20k miles on the tires, you might want to think about 17s instead of 18s. Even if it's a set of AP2 wheels. You could probably find a ton of STR guys who would sell you their year-old pull offs for cheap. Kill those dailying and get the tires you want for autox and track.