Time Trial Tire choice
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Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Second City
I've street driven on NT01, R888, and RA1 to/from events. Noisy as heck and have to be careful in the event of rain, but totally doable! The R888 I definitely noticed a substantial drop-off in performance after a few heat cycles, but they sure were quick those first couple of heat cycles. The RA1 at 8/32nds along with a substantial tread pattern definitely requires a shave to 5/32nds or so before you can really beat on them. The NT01 just blows my mind how durable and consistent it is through heat cycles - I've matched lap times on NT01's from when they were brand new all the way to 25+ heat cycles. Very consistent tire that doesn't require shaving or any really maintenance; just mount them and go. I've got to give the nod to the NT01 in this discussion as seems to be the consensus here... Great tire for lapping days!
-Aaron
-Aaron
I was looking through the NT01 tire size. I can't run 255/40/17 since it will be too many points. 245/45/17 will be a 6pt tire, but I'm a bit concerned with the tire height. Anyone think this will be too tall?
Edit: Now that I think about it, I think I taller tire might be to my advantage. Should require less shifting and I'm making enough power/torque now to exit corners at a decent speed.
Joined: Jul 2002
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From: Orlando
For Giggles we tested NT01 vs Kumho Escta XS at homestead in the 911 GT2. Same size same car same setup. Kumho XS was slightly faster. Just as an FYI.
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Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Second City
I've read some people speculate that XS, or RS3's, etc are faster than NT01's, RA1's, etc. And I've heard some people say that the NT01's, etc are seconds faster. This is the first time someone I trust has stated a back to back test. Do you think the XS, and by extension some of the other "extreme" performance street tires are up to par with the "beginner" r-comps? Or do you think that this particular case is more of the exception than the rule? (car prefers a bit of slide, xs handled the heat better, driver was more aware of feedback, etc.)
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Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Second City
Just googled NT01 vs XS and came across a conversation between Ian and myself from a year ago lol. Anyway, I'm going to give the NT01's a chance. I have a friend with a set of 255 Star Specs and maybe we can come back with some back to back testing results.
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From: Orlando
Originally Posted by Mrsideways' timestamp='1335300041' post='21639203
For Giggles we tested NT01 vs Kumho Escta XS at homestead in the 911 GT2. Same size same car same setup. Kumho XS was slightly faster. Just as an FYI.
Thread Starter
Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Second City
I am looking for a tire that does well in the wet. I know that XS don't and RS3's are only slightly better. Good to hear that NT01's fared well. My strategy will be to use NT01's unless I need to use the A6's. If it's wet, or I'm winning, or have zero chance of winning, I'll stay on the Nitto's. If I need the extra speed to win, to set a lap record, or for contingency, I'll throw on the Hoosiers.
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Joined: Nov 2004
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From: Second City
I should have kept better logs - but I don't think i was ever faster on my 255 rs3's than I was on 225 R6's. I usually just used RS3's in the morning sessions though before the track warmed up.