STS tire comparison

[John A. Heer]

Thought the list might appreciate the following comparison from the best
autocrosser in our region.  He is sponsored by Kumho, but mostly
recommends the Falken Azenis for STS usage:

Falken Azenis RT-215: old model, discontinued. Can still get some from
Vulcan Tire www.vulcantire.com

Falken Azenis RT-615: replacement for the RT-215. If you can get them in
your size. Considerably more money than the RT-215.

Falken FK451: shave it to 3/32"-4/32" and it's the same compound as the
Azenis RT-215. Wide variety of sizes.

Kumho Ecsta MX: not as grippy as the RT-215's, but will last a bit
longer.

Hankook Z212: new tire, no info on it yet

Overall, Falken Azenis.  They are a race tire with deeper tread that
people are now starting to shave down.  They will hang with a Hoosier or
Kumho on a road course till they get hot, about 3 laps.  Shaved they
will go about 5 laps.  I also think they are still the cheapest tire too
so that's makes picking that tire is kind of a no-brainer.

John Heer
93 SE-R (STS wannabe)