R comp (R888) stiff side wall vs. street tire

[LS1-IROC]

Hey guys,

I currently have R888's on my IROC. Been running them for a couple years. I mainly bought them because I found a killer deal on them and was strapped for cash after my wheel purchase.

I love the overall performance of the tire, but since my car is 100% street driven now, I'm thinking of putting a more conventional tire on it. The question I have, will there be a noticeable improvement in ride quality with a more compliant sidewall? Right now I feel every stone in the road. Would like something a little more friendly for the commutes. Need a 335 series (18x12 wheels) tire for the back so that limits my choices.

I toyed with the idea of putting on a DR but don't want something too squishy back there either.

[Vegas69]

I don't recall a noticeable difference between Pilot Sports and the R888. It's not like you are gaining sidewall. There may be a difference but I can't believe it's much between a performance street tire and r888. Shock valving would be a better place to look for ride.

[GregWeld]

Sutton would tell you that the tire is also part of the spring... and when you think about it - it makes sense. It's pretty hard (pun?) to want to run a performance tire with a short sidewall - and get ride quality at the same time. I agree with Todd - it may be able to be made a little better with shock valving/choice/settings and or spring rates etc.

I have run flats on the '32 -- with IRS and IFS... and a different tire combo - non run flats on the '33 with it's straight axle front and coil over live axle rear.... and the ride is BETTER on the '33. Part of that I think is the tire size but also the fact that the run flats have to use a stiffer sidewall which is what they run on when you get a flat.

[LS1-IROC]

Thanks for the input. I wouldn't expect there to be a huge difference, just curious from guys that may or may not have felt a difference. Maybe it would be smarter to invest in a better shock/strut. Right now I have older Koni single adjustable non gas charged shocks and I think that my be one of my problems. I've played with spring rates in the rear and have made some improvements.

[Sieg]

F1's sidewall profile is one of the better examples of using the tire as an air spring.

RideTech or similar quality shock will probably deliver the noticeable improvement in ride quality AND performance.

Michelin PS series tires appear to be one of the better all around choices for street.

I have the Koni's on my car and I honestly think just a shock change would shock you. Pun intended. :D