It's getting to be that time of year again (track season starts later for us in Wisconsin), and I'm looking at going to R-compounds this year for HPDE's, thinking either Toyo R888's or Nitto-01's (I realize Hoosier's are probably the best, but I'm not running competitively and want a tire that will hold up a little longer). I think Nate has run both, hopefully he'll chime in.

I was leaning toward the Toyo's, but the Nitto's are bit cheaper, seem to be very popular as well, and easier to get a hold of (at least online). Which leads me to my next questions:

1. Where are you all getting your tires for the best price? Tire rack doesn't carry either, and edgeracing is gone.

2. Any strong preference between those two (Or any other similarly priced tire)?

3. I was thinking of going with 225/45/15 on Kosei TS1's, et 38+, any issues with rubbing? I currently have the JCW suspension, but I'm probably going with coilovers this year, and will end up with a 1.5 inch drop (Or whatever works best from a performance standpoint, not concerned about appearance). Front's will have an extra +5 from my brake kit. Not adverse to doing a little trimming if I have to...

4. Shaved or unshaved? These will be track only tires.

Thanks in advance!

 

I get my Toyos from Frisby Performance Tire. I am still on RA-1s. Haven't made the switch to R888s yet. The Toyos do fine without shaving. I love the 225/45/15 size. ET+38 should be fine without rubbing, just watch the rear lower control arm. I run ET+35 with no problems.

 

Didn't know you could still get RA-1's, but it looks like they're still available--thanks for the info!