So, do I choose Falken Azenis or Kumho MX's in 205/50R15? Those should fit on the R81's from what I have gathered, right?

 

Personally I would use the 215/45/16 falkens on the 16 inch wheels. Lots more rubber on the ground. And they are closer to the original size to keep the speedo more accurate.

my .02

 

Didn't really answer the question, didja?!?

Actually, it would be very close to stock either way... Besides, the R81's are 9 pounds lighter than the R83's that are on the car now. I'd love to stick with 16's, but the price on the R81's was right.

So, the question is - 205/50R15's? Falkens or Kumho MX's?

 

Is it hot where you live? The Falkens are a better cool weather tire, the Kumhos like the heat. If it is regularly very wet (deep standing water) the kumhos will evacuate water better. Both are great autox street tires. I think the Falkens are cheaper, if that makes any difference.

The 205/50/15s are significantly shorter than the 215/45/16s, i much prefer a short tire for racing, but if it also doubles as a long term street tire, i'd be conserned about the extra mileage on the odo. But I drive the heck out of my car... 37k in just over a year.

 

It's hot where he lives.

Tire Rack carries the Falkens at $73, but this place has them for $61:
http://www.ec-securehost.com/OnlineT...l#FalkenAZENIS

-Rob

 

Hah! Hey Rob!

Speaking of where my R81's are coming from, thanks to Mr. Rob_Lewis.

Yes, it's hot here in Dallas. I've noticed all the Falken owners at the Solo II events here spraying their Azenis down during summer events. I don't see the Kumho MX drivers doing the same thing with any regularity... The MX's do seem to handle the heat a little better.

Since it rains fairly often here in Dallas, and in the spring/summer/fall quite hard (read pooling and lots of hydroplaning opportunities), I think I might give the Kumho MX's a try. The Azenis, in my experience, are fabulous in the dry but somewhat touchy in a pouring rain. The MX's are starting to gain in popularity versus the Azenis, too, and from what I can tell, they are a little better for track days... The only problem is finding them - TireRack has them on backorder indefinitely. I can't seem to locate anyone else that has them online - anyone have any leads?

Cost isn't a giant deal, really. I'm considering the ever-popular ES100's for their availability and decent all-around performance, too. There not in the same league as the MX's, but they sure do a great job under normal circumstances and in the wet. I've seen many sets being pushed on an auto-x course, and while they make a little more noise they seem to hold up fairly well.

 

i would say falken azenis.hands down..one of the best track tires i have ever used

 

Found the Kumho MX's locally for $98 installed (mounting, zero balanced, road hazard etc.)... I don't think I can beat that price, even with $79 prices online. After I pay for shipping and installation somewhere, I'd be right at that price anyway.