Square Set up: 265 StarSpecs or 275 RS3's?

[OlegE90]

Can you help me decide between two options for a HPDE-only square set up. So these tires will only be used at the track, but I will be driving on these tires to get to track events (6 hours each way).

My e90 has the Dinan Stage III suspension with Dinan's recommended camber settings.

I have 4 18 x 9.5" track rims. I've decided that I want to get Hankook RS3's at 275/35/18 all around (don't feel comfortable going with R-comps). The problem is that the tires are out of stock everywhere now for the past few months and their ETA is yet another month.

I don't want to wait that long so I need to evaluate alternatives.

1. 265/35/18 RS3's all around (this size is in-stock)
2. 275/35/18 Star Specs all around (the Star Specs were my number two tire choice after RS3's)

I think the RS3 is a better tire for my needs, but shouldn't I run the widest tire I can?

I'm not sure if it is better to run a bit wider Star Specs versus a bit narrower RS3's. Will the 10mm section width make a difference? Am I better off going with wider Star Specs versus narrower RS3s?

[kaiv]

Your title is not in synch with your poll choices.

And how about 275 RS-3s ?

[wisesoul]

I'd go 265. Save that extra weight. I don't think you'll notice a huge difference with 275s plus you might rub in the front going the wider route.

[von_zoom]

Would not recommend R1s if you plan on driving on them to the track, but they are the best choice (imo) for use on the track. FYI, they are available from TireRack. I just ordered 4 and will be delivered on Friday, May 4. FYI, will be selling my used R1s. Interested, look for the classified to be posted soon.
vz

[OlegE90]

Originally Posted by kaiv

Your title is not in synch with your poll choices.

And how about 275 RS-3s ?

Sorry, you're right. The Poll is correct, but the title is not. I tried to edit the title to fix it, but it doesn't seem like I have that option.

275 RS3's are not in stock, otherwise I would have gone with those, hence my dilemma.

[Z K]

The Star Spec is not as grippy as the RS3 but the Star Spec would be a better tire if you plan on using it for regular street driving as well as weekend track duty.

[TrackStarM3]

I'm going to run 265 starspecs instead of 275s, bc the 265s are 4 lbs lighter PER TIRE!! 16 pounds of rotating unsprung mass for just 10mm you don't even need. 265 starspecs run wider than most 275s anyways so ignore the actual number.

[Drifty//]

I just bought #2:

2. 275/35/18 Star Specs all around

However, my reason for doing this is that I'm also planning on using them for street, until I get a new set of street wheels. Therefore, I needed decent rain handling.

My next set of track tires (dedicated) will be the Hankook R-S3's in 275/35R18.

Did you consider the Nitto NT-05's? I think it should do better than the Star Specs (except in the rain).

I've seen a few posts praising the Falken RT-615K's. Might also be worth a look.

[Drifty//]

Originally Posted by von_zoom

Would not recommend R1s if you plan on driving on them to the track, but they are the best choice (imo) for use on the track.

R1s? I don't think he mentioned those. What brand are they, even?