Potenza RE730 or S-02 Pole Position? Thoughts? Also, input on max speed rating?

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Mar 19, 2001 | 11:02 AM

krunch

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Potenza RE730 or S-02 Pole Position? Thoughts? Also, input on max speed rating?

It's almost time to take off the snow tires and I'm ready to order replacements for the stock RE040s (which were completely worn after 20K miles). At this point I think I'm down to the S02 Pole Positions or the RE730s. There's a lot of good feedback for both of them on TireRack and the performance numbers look about the same. The RE730s have a treadwear rating of 300 and a price of $135 in their favor (vs. 180 and $193 for the Pole Positions).

I really liked the handling of the RE040s but the whole controversy surrounding them and the fact that they wear out fast, pushes me in a different direction, specifically the RE730s. Any reason I shouldn't go with them? Can the cost difference for the Pole Positions be justified if I can't really drive the TT (in this country) the way it was meant to be driven?

Max Speed Rating. Does anyone know what exactly this means? A friend of mine that used to be an RX-7 owner and big into mods, suggested that the max speed rating indicates the max speed the tires can handle, BUT they can only handle that speed for a few seconds before the heat from the friction starts compromising the tire's integrity and thus the car's handling. Is this true?

Thanks in advance,
-Krunch

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:10 AM

o2bnme

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Look into the S-03's. They are due out in May...if you can wait that long.

If you are looking at the S-02's, you should consider their replacements. I'm looking at the 730's because I want a higher treadwear number for the mileage I put on my car. The S-03's are supposed to have a very good water evacuation policy that continues as the tread is used up. Worth considering I think. Look back over the past few days and you'll see a few threads about them. MichaelTT started one of them referencing my ID in the subject.

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:22 AM

Marcus B.

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I ordered RE730s from Tire Rack on Friday.

I should get them tomorrow or Wednesday. I currently have over 34K miles on my RE040s. I will let you know the difference.

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:27 AM

gdewiTT

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I had RE730s on my first TT and use them in summer on my A4...

I recommend them VERY highly. About 24K miles total, 11K on the TT and 13K on the A4. They are significantly better than the RE040 you are used to in all respects. They are especially hard to beat for that price!

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:30 AM

o2bnme

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I'm happy thinking I am going to get to 20k with my 040's... 34k is amazing!

So, how bald are they? ;-)

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:51 AM

gio

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I love my S-02 PP's

They are great - especially in the rain. I haven't ever driven a car with the RE730's but I can tell you the S-02 PPs are MUCH better than the RE040's.

Mar 19, 2001 | 11:55 AM

Marcus B.

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Re: I'm happy thinking I am going to get to 20k with my 040's... 34k is amazing!

I admit that they are pretty bad. The outer tread is worn more than the inner tread. My wear indicators are visible. I don't suggest anyone else trying this. BTW, what's your dog's name?