Best Affordable Tires?

Chris00731 · 10-29-2007, 02:06 PM

I am in the market for new rear tires for my 04 S2000. I've been looking at replacing the Bridgestone Potenza RE050's that are stock. Anyone have any thoughts or better suggestions? I refuse to pay more than $200 a tire.

bobby2002S2K · 10-29-2007, 03:01 PM

Falken zein

Dr. Jimbo · 10-29-2007, 03:06 PM

Riken Raptors. Around $80 each installed. That's what I have and love them. I mention them in my posts and I never get any comment or feedback on them. I'm starting to think that Daddy Zach & me are the only ones that have'em (besides my bro on his Mitsu spyder turbo).
Just my 2 cents.
Jimbo

bobby2002S2K · 10-29-2007, 03:19 PM

I'll have to look into those whats the wear on them doc?

Dr. Jimbo · 10-29-2007, 03:36 PM

Google them. They're made by Michelin (probably some company they gobbled up like the "big boys" do). I read some reviews. Some people said they were louder (i guess if you have the all season-yes) but I disagree. I had some Cooper z-rated tires and they were LOUD. Any bump in the road sonded like I was going over train tracks. I was really suprised at the handling, comfort and look of a tire that cheap. They're quiet and sticky, great in the twisties. If you go to Tiresavings.com you can look at the tread design. I have the z-rated summer (not "all season" ar "a/s") tires. They're about $65 each on that site. The tires are made in Malaysia (not the good 'ol USA) but I love 'em. I've got 12k on them with at least 50% tread left (estimate). I need to get a tread depth gauge to tell for sure.

Java Junky · 10-29-2007, 03:58 PM

How wou'ja rate 'em when you're startin' to play aroun' the edge Doc? Do they give you feedback enough ta keep you oud'a trouble?
Be well.
Java

Dr. Jimbo · 10-29-2007, 04:12 PM

Well, I haven't kicked out the rear end yet. Since I'm coming from a 91 Toyota pickup with 242k on the clock, it's hard to tell ya. There is one sharp lefty in my neighborhood that even with the Coopers I had on the car, I got a little spooked when the rear slid a bit. With the Riken's I have more sticky and I really have to work at it to get a little side slid at 25 to 28 miles per hour (that's about what I hit the turn at). If I give it a little throttle before I'm done with the turn, I get a little kick out. I'm still playing with it and I know from reading posts, the ap1 is more prone to going ass first. I've tried to ebrake a 180 and I got a humiliating 45 (unlike my old vw bug that could ebrake a 180 into a parking spot). I guess I could ebrake the S into angled parking at the mall. I guess I should let someone like Vez try my S and see what he thinks of them but I won't be in San Diego any time soon. I looked at some other forums (Solstice, Mustang, Probe (wtf?)) and most people give a good review. Of course there are those that bag on everything (see craigslist rants and raves). I hope some others with Riken experience chime in. Google baby, Google!

bobby2002S2K · 10-29-2007, 04:20 PM

cool site i had to make that one for later use, thanks Doc.

gomarlins3 · 10-29-2007, 07:00 PM

"Best Affordable Tires?" I don't think that's what you want to put on a true sports car. Usually 'affordable' tires aren't the best when it comes to traction. I may be wrong and 'affordable' is a relative term, but that's my opinion.

Java Junky · 10-29-2007, 07:07 PM

Maybe the best of what's available in the "affordable" range?
I'm C.S. when it comes to experimentin' with tires anymore. If I know one brand's a definite handler, but costs, I'll start rollin' coins.
Be well.
Java

bobby2002S2K · 10-29-2007, 07:08 PM

True go, checkout the site. ITs not just cheap tires its great tires at good prices.

thai1 · 10-30-2007, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris00731

I am in the market for new rear tires for my 04 S2000. I've been looking at replacing the Bridgestone Potenza RE050's that are stock. Anyone have any thoughts or better suggestions? I refuse to pay more than $200 a tire.

i can get u the toyo or the maxxis tires a discount just me know
951-385-2172

Dr. Jimbo · 10-30-2007, 10:17 PM

i can get u some kindy bud a discount just me know 555-555-5555 (j/k)

Dr. Jimbo · 10-31-2007, 11:09 AM

Sorry thai, couldn't resist.

jagg · 10-31-2007, 12:03 PM

i've gotta agree with Go 'n Java's thoughts on the skins.
Getting the best possible tire that money can buy is the way to go on a Stewie. In a vehicle that handles like the S, you can't compromise that little spot where the rubber meets the asphalt.
I'm not saying that you shouldn't shop for the best price, but shop for it on some good tires.

regards,
jagg

Dr. Jimbo · 10-31-2007, 12:26 PM

I know the Rikens were inexpensive but, damn, they handle great. Maybe I'll try driving someone else's S with $200 tires and see if I'm wrong about mine. I hit that 15 miles per hour turn in my neighborhood at 30 the other day and not a peep or slip from the tires. I'll try it at 35 next time.

thai1 · 10-31-2007, 01:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr. Jimbo

Sorry thai, couldn't resist.

it all good

jagg · 10-31-2007, 03:13 PM

keep pushing the envelope doc.
don't forget tonight's trick or treat nite!

don't want to throw "casper the friendly" up on the hood, ya know?

regards,
jagg

Vezna31 · 11-01-2007, 06:40 PM

I just wrote a realy long post and it didn't take for some reason and I had to sign in again and I lost everything I wrote

Dr. Jimbo · 11-01-2007, 08:41 PM

No Casper jagg, I did it at 31. Working my way up.

Good to see you again Vinny.

Daddy Zach · 11-06-2007, 05:34 PM

While I have not had my S2 for a long time the Rikens seem pretty good, but then so is the car, my last car (GSR) used both yoko AVS1s and DunlopFM901s both seemed to stick real well. The Rikens cam with the car but I gotta echo, buy the best you can afford

Dr. Jimbo · 11-07-2007, 11:43 AM

That's why I got the Rikens. I was $15k in the hole after I bought the S. I can't complain, they've been great.

DJJSR · 11-07-2007, 12:47 PM

"I was $15k in the hole after I bought the S."

Dr. J!!!! You got a good deal on that car! Let's see, about $34k for the car, they must have allowed you about $19,000 for the 91 Toyota pickup with 242k miles on it! Wow! Great negotiating.

Will you go with me to get a new car for my wife? I want to trade in a mid seventies Ford Granada that has no windshield or left rear wheel, but it has that nice woodgrain contact paper on the sides, well, on one side anyway. She just doesn't want it anymore cause she says it smells like a dead dog and that reminds her of Fluffy. I told her it was her imagination and it smelled ok. Well actually fluffy did die in the car, but you know how women are, she's just got a mental block. Anyhow, she wants to upgrade to a 1980 something Ford Tempo or maybe one of those sporty cars they made back in the 80's, you remember, the ones with the stickers on them. She kinda fond of stickers, and that might help her get over that dog. Well, I'd appreciate the assistance with the price negotiation. The saleman's name is Bubba and I'll just have him give you a call and you can dicker over the phone. That way I won't have to sit in his office cause my wife says he smells bad but I told her it was her imagination.

Thanks

Dr. Jimbo · 11-07-2007, 03:42 PM

Thanks Don. My S is an '01 that I got in '07 with 49k on it. I wouldn't trade the truck cuz my kayaks and mountain bikes don't fit in the S (at least not very well). Maybe your wife would be interested in one of them Dodge Omni Shelby things. Now that's a sexy car! If that's too racy for her, I'm sure you can find a good deal on an Aries K-car. I've seen some brown ones with that nice "wood" trim on 'em. Good luck on makin' the wife happy. I'll keep my eyes open for any good deals.
Jimbo

jagg · 11-07-2007, 05:45 PM

For sale. good shape. $25K . $20K if you'll take the dog.He's got a bad attitude.

regards,
jagg
Picture 063.jpg

DJJSR · 11-07-2007, 06:22 PM

Dr. J - Good suggestion with the K car. I'll tell her K Mart made it, she likes K Mart. She goes there every time she goes to the big city.

Jagg - If you're going to let that dog drive, tell him he's got to pay better attention to what he's doing. He's run off the road, probably talkin on the cellphone again.

10-29-2007, 02:06 PM	#1 (permalink)
Chris00731 Junior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Baton Rouge, LA Posts: 1	Best Affordable Tires? I am in the market for new rear tires for my 04 S2000. I've been looking at replacing the Bridgestone Potenza RE050's that are stock. Anyone have any thoughts or better suggestions? I refuse to pay more than $200 a tire.

10-29-2007, 03:01 PM	#2 (permalink)
bobby2002S2K Wisdom begins in wonder. Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Lorton,VA Posts: 569	Falken zein __________________ I still cant get my foot off the floor and its been over a 2yrs now

10-29-2007, 03:19 PM	#4 (permalink)
bobby2002S2K Wisdom begins in wonder. Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Lorton,VA Posts: 569	I'll have to look into those whats the wear on them doc? __________________ I still cant get my foot off the floor and its been over a 2yrs now

10-29-2007, 03:58 PM	#6 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 5,451	How wou'ja rate 'em when you're startin' to play aroun' the edge Doc? Do they give you feedback enough ta keep you oud'a trouble? Be well. Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

10-29-2007, 04:20 PM	#8 (permalink)
bobby2002S2K Wisdom begins in wonder. Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Lorton,VA Posts: 569	cool site i had to make that one for later use, thanks Doc. __________________ I still cant get my foot off the floor and its been over a 2yrs now

10-29-2007, 03:06 PM	#3 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	Riken Raptors. Around $80 each installed. That's what I have and love them. I mention them in my posts and I never get any comment or feedback on them. I'm starting to think that Daddy Zach & me are the only ones that have'em (besides my bro on his Mitsu spyder turbo). Just my 2 cents. Jimbo

10-29-2007, 03:36 PM	#5 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	Google them. They're made by Michelin (probably some company they gobbled up like the "big boys" do). I read some reviews. Some people said they were louder (i guess if you have the all season-yes) but I disagree. I had some Cooper z-rated tires and they were LOUD. Any bump in the road sonded like I was going over train tracks. I was really suprised at the handling, comfort and look of a tire that cheap. They're quiet and sticky, great in the twisties. If you go to Tiresavings.com you can look at the tread design. I have the z-rated summer (not "all season" ar "a/s") tires. They're about $65 each on that site. The tires are made in Malaysia (not the good 'ol USA) but I love 'em. I've got 12k on them with at least 50% tread left (estimate). I need to get a tread depth gauge to tell for sure.

10-29-2007, 04:12 PM	#7 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	Well, I haven't kicked out the rear end yet. Since I'm coming from a 91 Toyota pickup with 242k on the clock, it's hard to tell ya. There is one sharp lefty in my neighborhood that even with the Coopers I had on the car, I got a little spooked when the rear slid a bit. With the Riken's I have more sticky and I really have to work at it to get a little side slid at 25 to 28 miles per hour (that's about what I hit the turn at). If I give it a little throttle before I'm done with the turn, I get a little kick out. I'm still playing with it and I know from reading posts, the ap1 is more prone to going ass first. I've tried to ebrake a 180 and I got a humiliating 45 (unlike my old vw bug that could ebrake a 180 into a parking spot). I guess I could ebrake the S into angled parking at the mall. I guess I should let someone like Vez try my S and see what he thinks of them but I won't be in San Diego any time soon. I looked at some other forums (Solstice, Mustang, Probe (wtf?)) and most people give a good review. Of course there are those that bag on everything (see craigslist rants and raves). I hope some others with Riken experience chime in. Google baby, Google!

10-29-2007, 07:00 PM	#9 (permalink)
gomarlins3 "Enjoy the drive" Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Kuna Idaho Posts: 2,622	"Best Affordable Tires?" I don't think that's what you want to put on a true sports car. Usually 'affordable' tires aren't the best when it comes to traction. I may be wrong and 'affordable' is a relative term, but that's my opinion. __________________ Yablownowitz Racing brought to you by Anytime Fitness. Happiness is a nice road, great weather, and driving the S with Sue in the seat next to me. "Whatever you do, where ever you go, enjoy the drive." I know for a FACT that the last year of production of the S2000 is 2003!!!!! After that, it will be the S2200 under an assumed name. Last edited by gomarlins3 : 10-29-2007 at 07:03 PM.

10-29-2007, 07:07 PM	#10 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 5,451	Maybe the best of what's available in the "affordable" range? I'm C.S. when it comes to experimentin' with tires anymore. If I know one brand's a *definite* handler, but costs, I'll start rollin' coins. Be well. Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

10-29-2007, 07:08 PM	#11 (permalink)
bobby2002S2K Wisdom begins in wonder. Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Lorton,VA Posts: 569	True go, checkout the site. ITs not just cheap tires its great tires at good prices. __________________ I still cant get my foot off the floor and its been over a 2yrs now

10-30-2007, 10:17 PM	#13 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	i can get u some kindy bud a discount just me know 555-555-5555 (j/k) Last edited by Dr. Jimbo : 10-30-2007 at 10:55 PM.

10-31-2007, 11:09 AM	#14 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	Sorry thai, couldn't resist.

10-31-2007, 12:03 PM	#15 (permalink)
jagg Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: The Endless Mountains Posts: 2,440	i've gotta agree with Go 'n Java's thoughts on the skins. Getting the best possible tire that money can buy is the way to go on a Stewie. In a vehicle that handles like the S, you can't compromise that little spot where the rubber meets the asphalt. I'm not saying that you shouldn't shop for the best price, but shop for it on some good tires. regards, jagg

10-31-2007, 12:26 PM	#16 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	I know the Rikens were inexpensive but, damn, they handle great. Maybe I'll try driving someone else's S with $200 tires and see if I'm wrong about mine. I hit that 15 miles per hour turn in my neighborhood at 30 the other day and not a peep or slip from the tires. I'll try it at 35 next time.

10-31-2007, 03:13 PM	#18 (permalink)
jagg Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: The Endless Mountains Posts: 2,440	keep pushing the envelope doc. don't forget tonight's trick or treat nite! don't want to throw "casper the friendly" up on the hood, ya know? regards, jagg

11-01-2007, 06:40 PM	#19 (permalink)
Vezna31 Resident Track Whore :) Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Chula Vista, CA Posts: 1,170	I just wrote a realy long post and it didn't take for some reason and I had to sign in again and I lost everything I wrote __________________ Vezna Financial Services - For mortgages, accounting and taxes, and phone service needs. http://www.vezna.com San Diego Car Club - http://www.sdcarclub.com

11-01-2007, 08:41 PM	#20 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	No Casper jagg, I did it at 31. Working my way up. Good to see you again Vinny.

11-06-2007, 05:34 PM	#21 (permalink)
Daddy Zach Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Great White North Posts: 230	While I have not had my S2 for a long time the Rikens seem pretty good, but then so is the car, my last car (GSR) used both yoko AVS1s and DunlopFM901s both seemed to stick real well. The Rikens cam with the car but I gotta echo, buy the best you can afford __________________ Black is still the coolest color

11-07-2007, 11:43 AM	#22 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	That's why I got the Rikens. I was $15k in the hole after I bought the S. I can't complain, they've been great.

11-07-2007, 12:47 PM	#23 (permalink)
DJJSR Philosopher Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Hooterville Posts: 1,652	"I was $15k in the hole after I bought the S." Dr. J!!!! You got a good deal on that car! Let's see, about $34k for the car, they must have allowed you about $19,000 for the 91 Toyota pickup with 242k miles on it! Wow! Great negotiating. Will you go with me to get a new car for my wife? I want to trade in a mid seventies Ford Granada that has no windshield or left rear wheel, but it has that nice woodgrain contact paper on the sides, well, on one side anyway. She just doesn't want it anymore cause she says it smells like a dead dog and that reminds her of Fluffy. I told her it was her imagination and it smelled ok. Well actually fluffy did die in the car, but you know how women are, she's just got a mental block. Anyhow, she wants to upgrade to a 1980 something Ford Tempo or maybe one of those sporty cars they made back in the 80's, you remember, the ones with the stickers on them. She kinda fond of stickers, and that might help her get over that dog. Well, I'd appreciate the assistance with the price negotiation. The saleman's name is Bubba and I'll just have him give you a call and you can dicker over the phone. That way I won't have to sit in his office cause my wife says he smells bad but I told her it was her imagination. Thanks __________________ Don

11-07-2007, 03:42 PM	#24 (permalink)
Dr. Jimbo Don't taze me bro! Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Santa Barbara, Ca. Posts: 1,003	Thanks Don. My S is an '01 that I got in '07 with 49k on it. I wouldn't trade the truck cuz my kayaks and mountain bikes don't fit in the S (at least not very well). Maybe your wife would be interested in one of them Dodge Omni Shelby things. Now that's a sexy car! If that's too racy for her, I'm sure you can find a good deal on an Aries K-car. I've seen some brown ones with that nice "wood" trim on 'em. Good luck on makin' the wife happy. I'll keep my eyes open for any good deals. Jimbo

11-07-2007, 05:45 PM	#25 (permalink)
jagg Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: The Endless Mountains Posts: 2,440	For sale. good shape. $25K . $20K if you'll take the dog.He's got a bad attitude. regards, jagg Picture 063.jpg

11-07-2007, 06:22 PM	#26 (permalink)
DJJSR Philosopher Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Hooterville Posts: 1,652	Dr. J - Good suggestion with the K car. I'll tell her K Mart made it, she likes K Mart. She goes there every time she goes to the big city. Jagg - If you're going to let that dog drive, tell him he's got to pay better attention to what he's doing. He's run off the road, probably talkin on the cellphone again. __________________ Don

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