jimmyblue

iTrader: (11)

While shopping tires I got a whiff of something I think
is a sneaky trick. That is, tires constructed with a thin
"traction" layer over a hard "tread life" layer. So they
stick great initially, then not so great. I don't want this
kind of tire, I want traction down to the cords.

How can I be sure which tires are or aren't made this
way?

JakeFusion

iTrader: (7)

What tires are made like that?

RAMPANT

iTrader: (17)

The old Firehawk SZ50 EPs with Uni-T were the opposite. They had a layer that was harder on the outside, so as you wore it down and the rubber vulcanized with heat cycles it softened to preserve performance through the life of the tire. One of the best street tires I have owned. They were the regular tires, not the run flats though.

leadfoot4

iTrader: (1)

I know that I'm a little bit in left field with this comparison, since I doubt you need snow tires, but that's how tires like Bridgestone Blizzaks are made. The first 50% or so, of the tread is a soft, compliant layer of rubber that gives excellent winter traction, but the remaining tread acts more like a general, all season tire.

Although it might not be leaking out "trade secrets" tire companies might not freely discuss these traits about their tires, but maybe you could get some answers from one of the techs at Tire Rack. I know a lot of their guys run auto-x, so they should have the inside info...

RevGTO

iTrader: (12)

From what I've learned, this is how most modern high performance tires are made. They have a high-silicone outer compound over harder inner compound. Once they wear down, the tend to spin like crazy and ride like rocks.

1BAD02WS6

iTrader: (-1)

Any Bridgestone or firestone tire with uni-t aq ii technology. Both layers of tread have great traction from start to finish. The only problem is they don't have the biggest selection of tires that fit 4 gens.

383partout

I've noticed this as well on alot of performance tires..

TAEnvy

iTrader: (2)

Bridgestone/firestone calls what some of you are talking about dual layer tread. and its not for wear life, its so the tire maintains a consistent level of wet traction through its entire life.

I have never heard of a mainstream manufacturer who intentionally makes a performance tire that under performs. That seems like a great way to never sell a second set of tires.

I have heard of people who put the wrong tires or cheap tires on their car and expect miracles.

If you want a good tire then buy a good one, its not hard to figure out which ones they are.

If you give us some info on price range and size, Im sure we can give you some good recommendations.

leadfoot4

iTrader: (1)

Good points....

LilJayV10

iTrader: (39)

Learn something every day.