dave7

Track tire size for TE 37 15x7 +43

I'm looking to get a set of tires that I'd just be using on the track (Willow Springs/other road courses). I've been searching around but haven't found anything too specific. I just want the best size for performance on the track, without rubbing. Right now it seems that the 205 15 50 is the best bet. It'd make sense to get a slightly wider tire than the stock 15x6 wheels right?

ontariorider

On a 15x7 with 43 offset a 205 50 15 would be your best option and there's a ton of track tires in that size too.

dave7

Thanks for the reply. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing anything obvious. I've been looking on tirerack at the many track tire options for 205 50 15. While it'd be awesome to get slicks, I'll prob go with Toyo R888R with price on mind.

itr#1334

iTrader: (2)

You don't need r-comps. Another solid option is the RE71R's from Bridgestone

dave7

Thanks, just checked out the bridgestones. They do seem like the best option.

coolhandluke

iTrader: (2)

For a 15x7'' rim, 205/50/15 will be your best size. Review options in the Extreme Performance Summer tire category to compare apples to apples. These are street tires, can be driven to/from the track, and can handle track use. With ITRCA down I can't reference our threads, but check out:
-BFG Rival-S/1.5
-Bridgestone RE71R
-Dunlop Direzza II Star Spec

More:
-Falken Azenis 615k+ = jury is still out (new)
-Toyo Proxes R1R (good in rain)
-Advan Neova AD08 = older, proven, but pricey

Full Tire Rack Search here

dave7

Thanks coolhandluke. Glad that you guys verified the tire size. I think the Bridgestone are the ones I will choose. Really missing itrca btw. There are references and contacts that I'd like to get in touch with lol.

I'm going to drive to the track on my other tires/wheels. Then put on the rays with these tires for the track. That way my street tires won't get worn out excessively.

Very excited to try the R on the track. I did a racing school a few weeks ago, my first track experience. And now I think I'm hooked lol.

touringteg

Did a couple autoX events last year on 205/45/16 on 16x6.5 RE71R Fantastic tires!

I have some 15x6.5 wheels collecting dust. I will be using 205/50/15 RE71R once my 16s are worn out.

dave7

Good to know. The 15 inch tires are probably cheaper too. My TE 37s were collecting dust. I'm getting them refurbished and painted cw this week. Then I'll get the tires.

insidiouseg-6

Not sure if they are offered in a 205/50 but I have had great experience with the Maxxis VICTRA RC-1 slicks. I had them in a 225/45 on a 7.5 rim.

atc5

iTrader: (2)

NT01 is a killer option.

Great value
Great quality

dave7

Nice. Did the 225 rub at all? I probably should stick with 205. Wish we had a 215 option lol.

dave7

Cool thanks.

insidiouseg-6

No rubbing at all even on hard cornering but I do have my rear fenders rolled and I'm not very low. It's unfortunate that there aren't more options in 215. Seems that would work perfectly for a 7" wheel

atc5

iTrader: (2)

I run 15x8 +35 w/ rear fenders rolled and 225's front and back and have no problems rubbing.

ddwelch

I have had track experience with the Kuhmo Ecsta Xs tires, and after those I went to the R888s since I got a deal on a used set. I am now in the same predicament as you, searching for a new tire, and also running a 15x7 wheel but in +35 offset. Since I have experience with both a street tire and R compound, I have been leaning to keep an R compound tire. The ones that I have been eyeing are the Maxxis RC-1 and Nitto NT01. I will probably end up with a 205/50 profile, but really want to get into a 15x8 and utilize a 224/45 option. I know my post does not provide much input as what you should choose, but wanted to add to the conversation.

atc5

iTrader: (2)

I recently ran the Maxxis RC-1 after coming off a few years of running the NT01's on track.

While I found the Maxxis to be quite durable/long-lasting, I felt like the NT01 was consistently stickier and that I got maybe one day less of use out of the NT01 than the Maxxis.

So the trade off is one track day of use less using the NT01 - which is a tradeoff that I'm happy to make.

I'm back to NT01's.