Anybody have 1st hand experience with Nitto NT-01 vs Toyo R-888?
Prices are comparable in my size so it's a tossup so far. These will be DE/TT use for dry track use, and I'd like to get a full season (8-10 days) out of them. I've used and liked both NT-01's and RA-1's, but would like to hear opinions and maybe lap time comparisons that anyone has with the 888's.
I have run a bunch of R-888s. They are faster than the RA-1 and have similar wear (a bit less, traded even for more grip). Stiffer side walls make for a little crisper turn-in, they work better in very, very hot conditions - less greasy but still a tire that likes a wide slip angle. The higher price made for an emptier wallet. All in all, a better tire than the RA-1 for lap time, a little less good for lasting that extra weekend. They are an excellent wet tire at full depth too.
The Nittos are the plan for the 1st set of spring rubber but I have not run them yet.
I run the r888's in spec e30 (2750lb total weight, 205/50/15 tire). They last about half the lifetime of the equivalent RA-1, don't tolerate high slip angles like the RA-1, and aren't really a tangible improvement in lap times. I'd rather go back to the RA-1 ;)
YMMV depending on the car and tire sizes.
Based on my experience, I wouldn't be buying the R888 if I didn't have to.
Interesting responses, thanks!
These will be 225/45/15's on 8" rims for a Miata (turbo). I use the stock wheels with full tread 205 RA-1's for street & rain. I'm looking for more dry grip, with more longevity than a Hoosier R6. Laz's comments make me wonder whether the 888's are an improvement over "old reliable" at all.
Spec Miata has gone to the R888 from the RA1 this year, so there will be a big slug of knowledge coming. I've always considered the NT-01 and R888 to be equivalent based on impressions from other people, but we haven't run the R888 on anything yet so I don't have personal experience. We did run the V8 Miata on 225/45-15 NT-01s on 6ULs for a bit. Need more tire :)
My own cars are on RA-1s until my stock of tires runs out, then I'll evaluate life vs. cost.
