Appropriate 14" Tires

[rcollum]

I just noticed that my current tires (Dunlop Direzza ZII Star Specs, 185/60 R14's), which I LOVE, are now 10 years old.  Also, apparently, no longer available.

I called Tire Rack, and they came up with Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2's as their only recommendation.  Probably OK, but the tread looks like a station wagon tire.

 

After checking with several local garages (4 of whom would not even CONSIDER servicing my car), a local tire place suggested two tires that would fit. 

Unfortunately, both tires they suggested - Toyo Observe GSI-1 and Hankook IPIKE X W429 - turned out to be SNOW TIRES!   WTF!!

 

Does anyone know of something that would be comparable to the Dunlop Direzzas I have?  (I also used them on my Elise for a while, and they are GREAT!)

I suppose I could go with Toyo Proxes R888R, which are listed as 'Race or Autocross only'.  I NEVER drive in snow or ice, and avoid driving even in the damp.

(Contrary to the picture for my profile!)

 

Thanks!

 

--Bob Collum

Edited August 11, 2025 by rcollum

[Silber]

I suggest going with the R888Rs if you want to maintain a grippy tire in the same size. Another option is moving up to 195 width tires which opens up a couple of Falken tires that would both be adequate replacements for your Star Specs.

 

[toldfield]

I have R888's on my S-3 and like them.  You might try shopping at Roger Kraus for tires that normal shops may not carry.  They do carry street tires.

 

https://rogerkrausracing.com/

[rcollum]

3 hours ago, toldfield said:

I have R888's on my S-3 and like them.  You might try shopping at Roger Kraus for tires that normal shops may not carry.  They do carry street tires.

 

https://rogerkrausracing.com/

Do you use your R888's regularly on the road?

 

Thanks,

 

Bob Collum

 

[IamScotticus]

Much love for the Uniroyal Rain Expert 3 on the UK club.

Otherwise,  it's a 1,300 lb  or less, car. Get cheap Kumho Solus TA11 and drive to the grocery store. 

Edited August 11, 2025 by IamScotticus

[mrmustang]

6 hours ago, rcollum said:

I just noticed that my current tires (Dunlop Direzza ZII Star Specs, 185/60 R14's), which I LOVE, are now 10 years old.  Also, apparently, no longer available.

I called Tire Rack, and they came up with Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2's as their only recommendation.  Probably OK, but the tread looks like a station wagon tire.

 

After checking with several local garages (4 of whom would not even CONSIDER servicing my car), a local tire place suggested two tires that would fit. 

Unfortunately, both tires they suggested - Toyo Observe GSI-1 and Hankook IPIKE X W429 - turned out to be SNOW TIRES!   WTF!!

 

Does anyone know of something that would be comparable to the Dunlop Direzzas I have?  (I also used them on my Elise for a while, and they are GREAT!)

I suppose I could go with Toyo Proxes R888R, which are listed as 'Race or Autocross only'.  I NEVER drive in snow or ice, and avoid driving even in the damp.

(Contrary to the picture for my profile!)

 

Thanks!

 

--Bob Collum

See my thread below:

 

 

Spent a month or so going over my options, and ended up with a tire that I can drive on the street, in all weather, and still if I wanted, take it to a local autocross or even a trip up to VIR. "H" rated to 130mph, doubt my car would get up to that speed given my 5spd transmission.

 

Bill

[toldfield]

3 hours ago, rcollum said:

Do you use your R888's regularly on the road?

 

Thanks,

 

Bob Collum

 

Yes.  I'm currently running 185/13's and they are very predictable and provide a nice ride.  I don't drive in the rain and avoid sprinklers that are hitting the pavement.