It was raining like crazy today in the Metroplex and my S-02s played havoc on the rain-soaked highway. It got pretty scary as I hydroplaned a number of times, so I actually got off the highway. I've got a little over 14K miles on the original tires, but the wear bars are still not showing even though the tread is pretty thin. The fronts still look okay, however. I don't autocross and I guess I drive like the old dude that I am.

I seem to remember that these tires hydroplaned somewhat even when they were practically brand new. Any suggestions on a good all-weather tire. Keep in mind we don't have much ice down here.

 

Lanny,

I just replaced my SO2s with Yokahama A520s. The Bridgestone RE730 will work as well. They are not SO2s but they probably suit your driving style. These are "W" rated tires but they are a little harder so don't expect the same ultimate grip. Pretty good in the rain now. These tires cost about $100 each. My SO2s were stepping out on dry pavement at 12K without the wear bars showing. Fronts are still fine.

Stefan

 

You can stick with the S-02's but put PP's on. Though many will tell you miss matching front and rear tires isnt good.

 

So the A520s aren't as sticky as the S-02s. I guess that's good and bad. I noticed they might be a good replacement because they are a hi-perf tire and they do NOT have a high treadwear rating (which would be bad b/c that means harder rubber). Keep us posted on how the A520s handle over time. Did you put A520s on the front as well (or did you keep the stock tires up front)?

Oh, and actually RE730s are NOT a good idea. Others have posted that they are way too hard (which the high treadwear rating confirms). Better alternatives might be the RE71s or the Dunlop SP8000s.

 

I have the same problem. My Goodyear dealer has recommended Eagle F1GS Or Eagle RSA or Eagle HP Ultra Plus. Has anyone any experience with these?

 

The S2000 expert, Connor, at Tire Rack is suggesting that we stay with the oem S02s. Even though the S02 Pole Position's will reduce hydroplaning because of a wider tread, he feels that they don't handle near as well.

 

I'll keep you posted on the A520s. I'm happy so far. I realize they are not as good as the SO2 but I tend to do long distance drives and they will take their toll on the SO2 in an expensive way. The A520 is a good compromise when considering tread wear. Actually the tread wear on the A520 isn't that much better than the SO2 but they are about half the price. I'm not sure if the RE71 is still around or not. I think the RE730 may have replaced them. They are very hard compound and I wouldn't suggest them for aggressive driving. However I do know some people that rarely exceed 55 mph and just cruise. The RE730 is well suited in this role and would provide long life with the proper speed rating despite its' lack of traction compared to the others.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Pinky
[B]You can stick with the S-02's but put PP's on.

 

But what about for the rain, which the S02s do poorly?

 

I don't drive in the rain -- that's what my Civic is for! It's amazing how long a coat of wax will last when a car isn't driven in the rain!

Actaully I have been caught in the rain a couple times; just slow down and the S-02s do fine (as long as they don't have 10k+ miles -- so I've heard).