GAP

My standard size (205-55-16) S-03's arrived on my doorstep from Eddie at Tire Rack the day before yesterday, one day sooner than predicted. Dealing with Tire Rack has been a very satisfying consumer experience and is definately the way to go. The tires were mounted yesterday by a local installer for considerably less than what one of the big chains quoted me for their own tires. So there is just no downside.

I am still evaluating the S-03's, but my initial impression is that they "feel" alot like my old 8000E's, except they are much more willing. The noise level is quite acceptable, certainly much quieter than the Dunlops which got noisy with age.

As has always been my experience the tires were overinflated when I got home, 40-45 psi each. Is this something all the shops do when balancing the tires or is it just me? I lowered the pressures to 32 psi. Is there other thinking on what an optimal setting is for S-03's used under normal street conditions?

My final question: what is the best way to rid your rims of the adhesive used for the old balancing weights. That stuff is tough!

ex-quattro PETE

not after driving them, because then the pressure will be much higher.

Ted K

32 psi sounds low. I run mine at 38-39psi all year round.

Ted K

service station with air close to your home, even if it's not the one you use to get gas.

Eddie@Tirerack

Thanks again!

The PSI when we ship is not exact, usually seta bit higher for mounting puposes & then you can tweak to your cars spec, which should be Audi recommended pressures to start, then you can adjust to your own liking from there.

The break-in on the tires will be about 5-700 miles, you will notice the performance improving as they get scrubbed in!

Hope this helps!

TXurS6

Like Eddie says, once broken in you will notice a difference in grip. They also like warm to hot weather so if it is cool where you live (<70 deg) they will not be performing up to their potential. When it gets hot out, they stick like glue.

Try using Goo-Gone or WD-40 to get rid of the adhesive first. If that doesn't work try Acetone (nail polish remover). You can find bulk acetone at the hardware store in the solvent aisle. Be careful with the acetone though, if you leave it on for a long time or rub really hard you could damage the finish on your wheels.