[s-cars] what is the optimum tire size for 17x8 wheel

[Keith Maddock]

Dave Ellis <UrS4 at sympatico.ca> wrote:
> 
> I've tried a wide number of tires on both my A4 and before then on my
> Suburu Impreza (replaced by the A4).  So far my two favorites for sheer
> grip, quite and comfortable ride, predicatable handling, and lightest
> weight for the previous qualities have been the Dunlop SP8000 and the
> Toyo T1-S.  I'm hoping the T1-R will be just as good or better since
> this will be the first set of dedicated summer tires for the S4.

After hearing good reviews about the T1-S's performance and price
levels, we (group of 8 Ring-nuts who co-own/operate 2 track-prepped
Golfs at the Ring) gave a set a whirl.

Unfortunatly the front tires started losing large chunks of tread
after only about 500 miles of track use on the '89 GTI.  (Normally we
get 2300+ miles on a set of PZeros or GS-D3s).

The rear tires were then later used on the front of the '90 G60, which
then proceeded to also show the same problem after about 500 miles of
use.

While neither of the Golfs are understeering pigs (both have suitable
track suspensions, cages, strut braces, suspension braces, etc) , they
are still loading the front tires a good deal.  The Toyos do not seem
to hold up to this abuse, the same abuse that PZeros or GS-D3's handle
just fine.

Given that our S-Cars ARE understeering pigs, I'd wonder if the T1-Ss
would exhibit the same behaviour if taken to the track... ??

My point - the T1-S may be a great street tire for the $$, but I'd be
cautious if your usage cycle includes some track time.

Cheers,
Keith