Cheap Track Tires - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

TexasM5 · 26th February 2004, 01:58

O.K., here's my question:

In anticipation of an upcoming track event, it occurred to me that it might be better to purchase a set of track tires to mount on my wheels for the event. Rather than trashing my Pilots, would this be a cheaper and/or better option? If so, what tires would you suggest?

Thanks,
TexasM5

M5Kid · 26th February 2004, 04:28

I really don't think there are any good cheap track tires out there. Michelin Pilot Sport Cups and Hoosiers are what most serious track guys run, both there tires being R Compound. If you are just going to be doing one event, you might be better of just using your street tires, assuming the tracking isn't terribly demanding. If you are planning on mounting track tires on your stock (steet) wheels for this event, it really isn't worth it even if you can find tires for the right price, after purchasing tires, and mounting and balancing it's going to be expensive.

I think your best bet is to use your steet tire and wheel setup for this track event. If you are going to be doing multiple track events per year, I would suggest getting a set of good quality track wheels (18" SSR Competition's) and an R Compound tire. I beleive this is why many owners shy away from serious track duty, it really gets expensive once you get all the gear needed, and god forbid you get into intermediate of advanced level which demands new suspension, upgraded brakes..........

Hope this helps,

Travis

BmwNut · 26th February 2004, 04:37

If you plan on destroying a set of tires in a day, and are going for experiance verses lap times, I would recomend Kumho Escta Supra 712's. Cheap tire, and good grip levels. I used to run them on my GTI and had good luck, and some people here have used them and thought they did just fine. Good performance to dollar ratio, so it might be worth checking into if you dont plan to have any tread left after the day. When they break traction it is really progressive, which helps when you are learning the limits.

doug · 26th February 2004, 04:38

Texas-

I think some guys are running 17's for lots less $$... this has been discussed before so you should get hits on a search. HTH.

M5Kid · 26th February 2004, 04:40

Good point Doug, but I am thinking that an 18" wheel is the optimum size for the M5 as far as performance goes?

-Travis

TexasM5 · 26th February 2004, 05:19

Good thoughts. Where exactly can you purchase R-compound tires. I didn't see any at TireRack.

TexasM5

TexasM5 · 26th February 2004, 05:26

By the way, I'm thinking about entering several track events a year and I already have the BBK, so I might end up with a new suspension setup (haven't decided which yet). If so, getting some track wheels and tires might be my first step. Any recommendations for a high quality track wheel with the understanding that cost is more important than appearance? I don't know that I need $2,400.00 worth of SSRs.

Thanks again,
TexasM5

M5Kid · 26th February 2004, 06:54

I know their are R Coumpound tires listed on Tire Rack, although they might now be listed as that. Look by brand add under Hoosier and Michelin. As far as brands go, I would recommend the Michelin's, I have heard of Hoosiers blowing out and having safety issues on the track, although their performance is slightly better that the Michelin Cups. I am sure there are more cost efficient wheels out there for the track than the SSR Competitions. Check out the BBS RC's (I beleive thats it), member BostonRocket had them on his 01' beast, they come in 18" only, are strong, weigh much less than stock (17-19 lbs. per wheel), and best of all are under 2,000 dollars for the set if my memory is correct. Either the SSR or BBS wheel wrapped in Michelin Cups would be a great setup.

I think you will find you want a different suspension setup once you get out there, but stock should be adequte for a while. If would reccomend you look at the new Ground Control Coilover setup, especially if you will be tracking your car. Although their are alternatives, Dinan and KW for example, Ground Control is a proven company and will put together a setup designed to your specs.

Hope this helps,

Travis

gsfent · 26th February 2004, 16:03

Good advice given on R compound tires. Also, Toyo RA1's and Kumho V700. Stay away from Hoosier unless you plan on replacing them after every other event, $$$. While they may be a second a lap faster, in DE it means nothing; in racing it means everything!! When you buy track wheels and tires, buy 5, not 4 (preferably the same size so they can be rotated). Nothing like cording a tire early in the event and ruining the rest of your day/weekend or making the drive home a little scary. Pays to have a spare ......
Regards,
Jerry

Richard in NC · 26th February 2004, 22:34

I found Kuhmo VictoRacers in a 17in. size for the M5. I use the ATS Type 10 Rims. *** NOTE THIS IS AN EDIT ***. I looked at Borbet Type E rims but bought the ATS. They are some of the few 17 inch aftermarket wheels that clear the M5 brakes. A local Discount Tire ordered and mounted them for me. The total was ~ $1280, less than a set of Michelin Pilots themselves.

The bad news, at my only track day since I bought them, it rained starting the middle of the first day. I only got one session on them and went back to the street tires. Then it all made sense why to always have track tires on their own wheels.