Tires... Again!

[Dudes ZX3]

I know it's been beating to death but I can't decide. I have 2 monitors up searching and researching. I'm putting them on stock 16" 6spokes.

Kuhmo Ecsta XS : 215/45/16
Direzza StarSpec : 205/50/16
BF Goodrich T/A KDW2 : 205/50/16

I think I'm really leaning towards the Kuhmo's but StarSpec reviews are incredible, and the BFGood has to be one of the only US made tires I can find.

[Sponsor]

[WD40]

You can cross off the BFG from your choices.
It's nowhere near the perfomance of the other two.

If it were me, and it were the choices you posted, I'd pick the Kumho.
1) Wider (better cornering)
2) Shorter (better acceleration and lower center of gravity)
3) Lighter (by 2lbs each)

But, then again, have you considered the Bridgestone RE-11?
It came out #1 in this test of Extreme Performance tires:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/...y.jsp?ttid=118
^^^Note, the Dunlop and Kumho were also tested.

[wrc_fan]

The 215 wide Kumho may be too pinched on the 6 inch wide stock wheel. While the tire may be wider, you may not see any gains with a wheel that's too narrow.

Don't bother with the BFG.

[WD40]

^^^Very good point...didn't even look at the 6" wide wheel aspect.
Sorry about that.

Tire Rack does show 7"-8" as the rim width range.

[wrc_fan]

RE-11s come in a 205/45R16, but they are costlier...

[Dudes ZX3]

I don't want to here this about BFG (although I knew I was), I really rather not source my tires from abroad.

Guess I'll debate the StarSpec and Bridgey. And after looking at those charts apparently Yoko.

[Dudes ZX3]

Nvrmind Yoko doesnt carry my size... I think it's StarSpec.

I can't see spending an xtra 140 for Bidgestones, I'm no PRO!

[WD40]

^^^No need to worry about the Yok's...
For some reason, the Yokohamas never get good rankings in other tests (Grassroots Motorsports or Car and Driver)

FWIW, here's the latest test I can find online:
http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...mparison_tests
^^^Dunlop #1, Kumho #3, but unfortunately no RE-11 tested.

I do know there was a test by Grassroots Motorsports in the June 2009 issue that had the Kumho in 1st place.
(Can't find it online though.)

[wrc_fan]

You could pick up a extra set of wheels and buy some hoosiers:

http://www.hoosiertire.com/

Not only made in the USA, but they are great supporters of novice racing!

[Dudes ZX3]

Originally Posted by wrc_fan

You could pick up a extra set of wheels and buy some hoosiers:

http://www.hoosiertire.com/

Not only made in the USA, but they are great supporters of novice racing!

I would love too, but with 105k on the original exhaust im trying to also replace that in it's entirety.

Not to mention the r compounds could surely hide my imperfections, if I wouldn't just destroy them first go round.

I'm dropping the hammer on a set of Dunlop's. I appreciate all your input.