If the Shoes fit

Next to the car itself, probably the biggest ongoing expense in racing is tires.   BFP likes her shoes and she likes ‘em big.   The S197 comes stock with 17” wheels which is the base size in American Iron and which is where one of the key price points for race tires happens to be set.   BFP is currently wearing 18” wheels which bumps us into a much higher price point on tires.

As an example, 275/40/R17 Toyo R888 tires can be found for $200-250.   At the 18 inch size for the same width and sidewall, you are looking at over $330.  That is a difference of at least $340 per set of tires.

In the CMC and AI classes, the Toyo race tires are a spec tire.  All competitors must run the same spec tire.  In 2008, Toyo is requiring the R888 to be run for competitors wanting to compete for contingency awards.   Competitors can still run the older RA1 tires but will not be eligible for contingency.

In the AIX (American Iron Extreme) class, tire selection is up to the competitors.   We ran Hoosier R6 tires during time trial events and found them to have better longevity and better overall grip than the Toyo RA1s.   Early reports on the R888s are favorable in that the grip level seems to be better and the tires do not have to be heat cycled like the Hoosiers require.  One note we have heard is that the enhanced grip does require shaving which reduces the longevity of the tire.  Again, early reports seem to indicate that the R888 wears faster than the Hoosier.

We’ll keep our eyes on this in 2009.

Topics: BlueFirePony; Car Build