JW911

Thanks Ron. That clears up the confusion. The title of your post had me expecting an article about all N spec tires, how they are made, what differentiates them from non N spec, how Porsche certifies them, etc. etc. This was actually just an explanation of the newest Michelin Pilot Sport which it would seem is the first manufacturer to produce a N4 tire.

RonCT

Well, I think the title is accurate. The article explains N-specification, as I quoted and explained in my last post. It talks about the latest N-spec, how they have lower rolling resistance, how they require lower pressures, how they are made of a new compound, etc.

Bob Rouleau

I wonder if the new PS2's are really better or simply "greener".

RonCT

Great question - one has to wonder if something "gave" in order to decrease rolling resistance. Curious how they were able to lower resistance while also decreasing air pressure. Stiffer sidewall?

Bob Rouleau

Physics suggests that grip and rolling resistance are related in an inverse way.....

RonCT

Exactly!

GSIRM3

So, you are saying decreased rolling resistance = increased grip?

Carrera GT

Okay, somebody's got to say it: "Therein lies the rub"

(or more correctly, Ay, there's the rub.)

mlpor

Stumbled across this old thread while looking for "N-Spec"

Here's at least one other parties old explanation for the designations origins and usage, http://www.nichols.nu/tip493.htm

user 72902

What psi are the N4 tires suppose to run at if they are designed to operate at lower pressures?

yemenmocha

just so long as the PSS buyers get hosed and PS2 buyers come out on top then I'm happy