9 replies to this topic

[pwfree]

1992 Miata that I am only using for Track Days. someone suggested that I purchase some used RA1s. How do I tell if they are too used, or too old or too many cycles? Thank for you help

[Ray Meister]

I'm told that RA1s are good for 4 years from the date of manufacture (listed on sidewall) and that heat cycles don't matter much if you are in the 4 year window.

[Ron Alan]

We raced on 05 date code tires last year and will again this year(partial...budget racers!)and they are fine.. They "gooed" up just as much as newer tires around us. I would guess if stored properly 4 years might be pretty conservative...especially for HPDE. Run them until they cord(RA1's)! Depending on how hard you push and your camber set up, the tires will be best when they reach no lines in the tire. Getting to this point will also depend on tire pressures and if they started from full tread or shaved.

But for HPDE you have a lot of options other than RA1's. Something 140 or less in a DOT tire or any R compound takeoff. Just make sure they're not at the very end of their life cycle unless they are free! Even then the cost of mounting and balancing adds up!

Good luck and keep it on the pavement

[pwfree]

Thanks! still have some lines and less than 2 years old. I should be in good shape!

[TreadZone]

Some would say they are getting to their prime. Make sure you check them closely after every session and look for cords.
Joe

[ChrisA]

So how about the R888s? I have a set for DEs that are now entering their 3rd season. They still have some visible grove, but they sure felt like they fell off a lot at the end of last season.

[FTodaro]

So how about the R888s? I have a set for DEs that are now entering their 3rd season. They still have some visible grove, but they sure felt like they fell off a lot at the end of last season.

They are junk to start with but to answer your question they will cord quick after the tread is gone. Likely they are past prime but unlike the RA-1 they do not have much rubber beyond the grove in the tread.

[davecarama]

For DE, you should absolutely run them till they cord. Waisted rubber if you throw them away before that. You are not competing after all. But if they are all dry rotted and don't hold air... they are most likely past their prime!

With Hoosiers, even the cords are sticky!

[davecarama]

They are junk to start with but to answer your question they will cord quick after the tread is gone. Likely they are past prime but unlike the RA-1 they do not have much rubber beyond the grove in the tread.

Totally agree. Great street tire though.

[Cy Peake]

My times start to fall off once they get the blue sheen around the edges.