Falken Azenis 235/40-18 on stock wheels

[Southbay]

I’ve installed Falken Azenis 235/40-18 on the stock wheels. I was concerned about the narrowness of the stock wheel, but the tire shop (owned by enthusiasts with plenty of track experience) said there would be no problem. Of course, there would be a slight deformation of the sidewalls and consequently a slight deformation of the tread, but they felt this could be reduced or offset by running slightly lower pressures.

In any case, the Azenis should way outperform the OEM BS Potenza RE050A tires. I’ve run two track events w/ the RE050A tires, and they’re pretty miserable – as well as being way, way overpriced.

So, how do I like the Azenis (I’ve had ‘em on for four weeks) compared to the RE050A? (1) The grip is much, much better. (2) The ride is slightly better. (3) Torque steer is slightly reduced (because the Azenis are stickier and wider). (4) The Anzenis are a tiny bit noisier – but only tiny bit, and after a couple of days you don’t notice it. (5) The Azenis ought to last longer.

A whole lot better tire for a whole lot less money . . . what’s not to like?

[niz55]

I’ve installed Falken Azenis 235/40-18 on the stock wheels. I was concerned about the narrowness of the stock wheel, but the tire shop (owned by enthusiasts with plenty of track experience) said there would be no problem. Of course, there would be a slight deformation of the sidewalls and consequently a slight deformation of the tread, but they felt this could be reduced or offset by running slightly lower pressures.

In any case, the Azenis should way outperform the OEM BS Potenza RE050A tires. I’ve run two track events w/ the RE050A tires, and they’re pretty miserable – as well as being way, way overpriced.

So, how do I like the Azenis (I’ve had ‘em on for four weeks) compared to the RE050A? (1) The grip is much, much better. (2) The ride is slightly better. (3) Torque steer is slightly reduced (because the Azenis are stickier and wider). (4) The Anzenis are a tiny bit noisier – but only tiny bit, and after a couple of days you don’t notice it. (5) The Azenis ought to last longer.

A whole lot better tire for a whole lot less money . . . what’s not to like?



wow 235 on 7" wheel. Amazing!

[Yoo Shin]

that's pinching a lot of tire on a small wheel especially with the Azenis which run wide.

How's the stearing response and "crispness"? Got any pics?

[Mid_Life_Crisis]

I’ve installed Falken Azenis 235/40-18 on the stock wheels. I was concerned about the narrowness of the stock wheel, but the tire shop (owned by enthusiasts with plenty of track experience) said there would be no problem.

This is a tire dealer who wanted to make a sale and doesn't give a rat's *ss about whether or not the customer gets the best out of the tires he bought. I have the same tires. Falken's website calls for an 8 inch rim minimum and recommends 8.5. Convincing someone that a 7 inch rim is acceptable is an unconscionable pursuit of the almighty dollar. They may have plenty of experience, but that doesn't mean they have any scruples.

[Gmac03]

Why didn't you just go with the 225/40/18 that they sell. They would of cost you less and a much better fit IMHO.

http://www.vulcantire.com/azenis_rt615_t.htm

Gmac

[Southbay]

that's pinching a lot of tire on a small wheel especially with the Azenis which run wide.

How's the stearing response and "crispness"? Got any pics?

Pics? The tire looks just the same as one mounted on a 8 in or 8.5 in or 9 in wheel. At its widest point, the deflection of the sidewall on the 7 in wheel compared the same tire on an 8 in wheel is around 2 mm. You wouldn't be able to see the difference w/ the naked eye.

Steering response and crispness are just what you'd expect from an Azenis: excellent.

[mazdaspeedster3]

Wouldnt torque steer be exagerated with a stickier tire?