I started a thread on “Which are the best sticky street tires” over on the 993 board. What I learned is that the R-Compound tires (Sport Cups) should be avoided until I have mastered the driving limits of street tires. Makes good sense.

Now I need opinions on the best street tire to be used in dry, warm conditions here in So. Ca. It seems that the BFGoodrich g-Force T/A KD, Bridgestone S-02/3 (S-02As maybe?) and regular Pilot Sports are favored.

While I don’t want to replow this ground, I’d appreciate suggestions on which tires you would choose if you replaced them today.

Thanks!
<img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

Bill

 

I just replaced all four worn Bridgestone S-02's with S-03's. In order, my priorities are grip, wet weather performance, and noise. There were lots of other tires that excelled in one individual area, but the S-03 is perceived to perform competently in all three areas. So far, I'm happy with the choice. I also explored Michelins and Pirellis.

 

I think that if you are undecided on what to get, the S03's are a pretty safe bet.

Good combination of grip, wear, dry/wet traction. Probably best for all around driving. If you want more, then you should get a seperate set of track rims/tires.

Jeff

 

John/Jeff,

Thank you for the feedback. I had the S-O3s on my previous C2 and liked them but would be willing to forgo the wet weather capabilities (fair weather car) if I could get a tire with better dry weather grip.

Viken said he liked the S-O2As, but I haven't been able to find anyone who has them or info on them. Perhaps the S-O3s are still my best bet...

Thanks again,

Bill

 

[quote]Originally posted by Bill P.:
<strong>
Viken said he liked the S-O2As, but I haven't been able to find anyone who has them or info on them. Perhaps the S-O3s are still my best bet...
</strong><hr></blockquote>

<a href="http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Bridgestone&tireModel=Potenza+S-02+Pole+Position" target="_blank">Potenza S-02 Pole Position with UNI-T AQ</a>

This may be the tire that Viken is talking about.

 

[quote]Originally posted by jes999:
<strong><a href="http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Bridgestone&tireModel=Potenza+S-02+Pole+Position" target="_blank">Potenza S-02 Pole Position with UNI-T AQ</a>

This may be the tire that Viken is talking about.</strong><hr></blockquote>

No, it isn't. The S-02A is a completely different tire and is not shown on the Tire Rack or Bridgestone web sites. However, I heard that the Tire Rack does sell the sizes for the P-cars. This tire is OEM on the 360, 996 and Boxster.

I wouldn't touch the S-02PP with a ten-foot pole.

Here is the S-02A:

 

Bill, go with the GForce -- you won't be disappointed. I plan to put another set on once I'm through with my S-02's.

 

I also live in a warm climate and have used Pirelli P-Zero, Michelin and Bridgestone S02. My personal preference for a "performance" tyre is the S02. The others will probably last longer but if you want the grip, go the S02's. Having said that the S03 could also be worth a try. I have only heard good reports!! <img src="graemlins/jumper.gif" border="0" alt="[jumper]" />

 

This was a tough decision. Everyone has a favorite and a good reason for their decision.

After reading many current and prior recommendations, I've decided to go with the S03s. Many here use them and are satisfied. I've had them on my prior car and I'm familiar with their characteristics. Basically, I'll use these tires while I further study and learn from others here.

What I did learn is that I need to do a few more DEs and track events in order improve my driving skills before going to sticker rubber (R compound).

Thanks everyone for your feedback!

Bill <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />

 

Bill:

Last time I checked, TireRack carry the S02A at the same price as the S02 (non-Pole Position). Only in 225/40-18 and 285/30-18 though.

My original tire on my 993TT was the P-Zero assym (currently S02). The dry grip of the P-Zero is just superior to the S02. However the P-Zero last me less than 10kmiles (rear). Also with miles/wear, the P-Zero become unbearably noisy (out of round)

Slightly less relevant but might be helpful to you, I have tried the Pilot Sport (stock on E55), S03 and Toyo T1S on my E55. The Pilot Sport give the best response (stiff sidewall) while the S03 gives good ride and slowest response. I ended up selling my S03s to another E55 owner and put on the T1S since they are pretty good (responsive yet not too harsh) while being the lightest (4lb/tire less than S03 in my case). S03s are OK but in my observation are one of the porkiest tire around. No T1S rear size for the 993TT though.