"Sticky" tires in narrow widths?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

I've got a local friend who is looking for some grippy tires for his (Carrera) Speedster. He'd prefer competition-grade tires (e.g., DOT-rated but aggressive tires like the Kumho Victoracer etc.) but would probably be OK with an aggressive hard-compound tire like the Falken Azenis.

The trouble is, he can't fit tires over about 175 or 185 section width. There just isn't room under the fenders, and he is understandably leery of modifying the fenders of the car.

So, does anybody know of any good skinny tires available for 15" or 16" rims? (I forget which he has.) He's got some A008s on there right now, but they're pretty dry-rotted so he doesn't run the car any more.

--DD

[ettsn]

What size wheel?

-Paul

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

I'm not certain--this came up in casual conversation... But I'm hoping that, if I can point him to some good tires, he may let me take a fun run in it when he brings it back out!! (57 Carrera Speedster? Wheeee!!)

I'm guessing the wheels are probably 4.5x16. But I'd bet that 15s are also available, likely in 4.5" or 5.5" width.

--DD

[campbellcj]

You "might" still be able to find some Yoko A008 NOS rubber (late 90's or so). Coker Tire would be a good place to inquire about this as most traditional dealers will not have much in the way of performance tires narrower than 205's these days.

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Kinda what I thought. I suggested that Bill check at Coker--they might even be repop'ing some real moldy oldies, like Goodyear Blue Streaks!

--DD

[Ron Shade]

For period correct narrow racing tires, contact Roger Kraus Racing at (510) 582-5031 in California. They have Dunlop racing tires which should work.

Good riding, Ron Shade
56 Speedster, 68 911S #808

[jluetjen]

Have you ever considered FV slicks? I certainly wouldn't street them, but for autocrossing they might be just the thing.

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Good recommendations, both! Next time I see Bill, I'll let him know. As a bonus, Kraus is right in our area so he can take the car directly there if need be!

--DD