I searched our archives but I only see currently incorrect info on "Falken Azenis."

I received a strong recommendation, from two Miata racers I respect, to try the new RS tires on my rear. Falken makes a 225/50R16 with a 9.1" section width. Tread width is unspecified. Ignore the treadwear rating. Those tires are wear faster than they say, more like our S02's. I also know an M3 racer who saw another M3 (or an Audi, bad memory here) lapping Buttonwillow fast enough on these tires.

Anyone here try these? Or, why shouldn't I?

Even if tread width is not equal if it is stickier than the S02 it could be a wash. Oh, and price is around 2/3rd of S02's. Big incentive to try 'em.

 

I think Falken is the best of the B-list tire makers. I don't know if they would be a good solution but I can assure you that they have made some decent performace tires over the years and -- when I've used them -- I've been generally satisfied. These are marketed as a DOT race tire, aren't they?

 

Yes, this is their new best DOT legal racer. The RS model is different, much more racer, then the earlier Azenis model. Treadwear rating is something like 200, which is a big joke. They are more like treadwear 100 on a lightweight Miata.

Like you said, Falken is B-list in my history but if nobody has tried these maybe I'll be the first. My next regional Auto-X in late January and I need street class rear tires before then.

 

What is the section width of the stock S02?