Andrew_Bettencourt@kingston.com wrote:
>
> Let's not put the RA-1 in the same league as the Hoosier, G-Force, or V700.
> They may be sticky for what they are but a competitive autox tire they are
>not.
Damn... I knew I was working with a disadvantage, but this sounds like I
should be in a street tire class. 8-)
My 2 cents (again) from someone who has autocrossed on RA1s, V700s,
G-Forces, and Hoosiers on my MR2 (what? tire loyalty?).
The Toyo RA1s are about 99% as competitive as the other tires, but it
depends on the car and surface and temp. IN GENERAL, the stickier/warmer
the surface, the less difference these tires will have. The more
slippery/cooler the surface, the more you will be wondering why the hell
you bought them.
I want to make the point, that for many people, the loss of 1% of
competitiveness is not that big of a deal. It's pretty easy to self-pax
your self (careful when you do that). Unless you have to get that trophy
and you are in a competitive class, or you are running nationally, then
99% may work very well for you. They do wear very well. I think if we
look at the large group of autocrossers, most of them fall into the
above categories, and may very well be happy with 99% and better tire
wear.
And lastly, the best thing about Toyos is that built in excuse factor.
"yes, I was in 2nd place, .10 seconds out, but I am on these crappy
tires and he was on them G-Forces". Besides, how do you think the 3rd
place guy on G-Forces/Hoosiers/K-tires feels? 8-)
Randy Chase (the fastest car at Atwater/San Bernardino Pro on Toyo
RA1s.. okay, almost the only car on RA1s)
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