larryV

Not that I'm complaining but did anyone else notice that the steering has become quite a bit heavier with these wider and grippier tires installed? At least heavier than what I expected from a not so aggressive tire upgrade. Not a bad thing, but definitely more than I expected.

Then again, maybe it's just because I haven't driven the RS4 in a week and have become too accustomed to my ML's light heavily assisted steering. But I swear, the steering with the RE-01R's definitely feels heavier than what I remembered with the stock Pirellis on. Figured I'd check in with people here to see if I'm going crazy.

daveak05

you should also be feeling other changes in steering characteristics tire to tire. some will have better turn in, better neutral on center feel, etc, etc.

heavier steering requiring more effort...i would think it's the 255 to 275 difference, and possibly heavier tire.

larryV

I just didn't think the increase in steering effort would be this pronounced. For a moment, I almost thought something was broken with my steering rack.

daveak05

the OE tires were exceptionally easy steering, who knows. i really think going up a couple sizes is probably what's contributing the most.

well, i'm sure you'll get used to them...supposed to be a really good tire. and i'm sure Evil and Scott can give some valuable feedback in this regard.

McGyver

Unrelated to your question. . . the ride is actually smoother than I experienced with the PS2s (especially at cruising speeds of 90-95).

I'm quite surprised given the initial reports were "stiffer" and "rougher". Although, those reports may have included a mod (e.g., sway bars).

RI A6

I find turn-in much quicker than before ... but I do have the H-sports installed too.

larryV

I'm just talking about overall heaviness in terms of increased steering effort while taking lazy slow turns at normal speeds around town. I don't feel the tires have changed the quickness of the steering much, if anything just the perceived quickness due to having a more responsive tire with stiffer sidewalls.

RI A6

Is there more effort ... I don't honestly know. Sounds like an A-B compare is in order.

Vijay

over the stock Pirelli's and 4lbs heavier than the stock Michelin's. You will feel this. The handling deficit caused by this is offset to a certain degree by the wider tread, stiffer sidewalls and different tread compound. I'm still willing to bet that the best handling tire would be with 275 width PS2's.

RI A6

But if handling is defined as grip in the corner, then I suspect the RE-01Rs would win.

Overall, the extra 5lbs will change the suspension travel a bit. The question is will the unsprung weight gains for the PS2 offset the grip advantage that the RE-01R has?