All season tires on the track?

[atruelunatic]

I want to get back on the track, but don't currently want to deal with getting a new set of tires and getting them mounted. I am currently using Michelin A/S 3+, think these will be OK for the track? I'm in the PNW and the track will likely be wet and possibly raining. Temperatures are 52F High/42F Low.

[Estoril Blue]

I've instructed in a car that was running all seasons. They howled like banshees - but on the positive side the feedback told you where you were with them as they approached breakaway.

I'd say just make sure that you have plenty of tire anticipating a fair amount of wear, check and manage tire temps and wear/roll. I'd chalk them the first session to see what they are doing. Most importantly - drive within the limits of the tire - not the way you are accustomed to driving. Adjust braking zones, entry speeds etc and leave some good room for non-performance tire behavior. Work your speeds up with some care. Follow good wet track practices and vision to adjust to changing track conditions.

[Ximian]

The A/S 3+ will be much better in those cool conditions than something like a PS4S, especially when it's very wet. Cool the tires and brakes off every few laps and you'll be fine. All the other standard track day suggestions still apply.

[Candide13]

I tracked my car on the Michelin A/S 3 for a season at novice/intermediate level.
They work fine on the track, with plenty of audible signs of approaching the limit, and of course less grip than a dedicated performance tire.

However, when the time came to replace them, the car shop found that the inner bead in the fronts had separated entirely, presumably due to the very high track temperatures. And these cars are heavy and most of the braking is done in the front.

So I would say they are totally ok for novice driving, especially on colder days. Once you begin to push the envelope (eg intermediate or above) you should certainly get different tires, suitable for track duty. I bought a set of track wheels and never looked back

[jid2]

I ran those tires a few times this past year in the rain. They are amazing for an all season. Was very impressed.

[Richbot]

The AS3+ is probably the only tire this makes sense on

[lutfy]

Originally Posted by Richbot

The AS3+ is probably the only tire this makes sense on

+1 I used old AS3 (non +) and was suprised the level of grip the tire had. The slip angle/peak grip is a hit/miss so one needs to drive super smoothly to get best laptimes as other have chimed in, they do howl scream a lot.

Very close to street tires of 2000s with all year capability, excellent wear and impressive in the wet (hydroplaning). You'll be fine. Enjoy!

Lutfy

PS: Since then 2.5 set (2 F, 3R) on these tires doing DD

[Montaver]

AS/3's are the best kept secret in the Michelin lineup IMO, nothing beats their all round capability. Not track tires obviously, but feel very similar to PSS on the street. For cold dry and wet weather in particular they are goldilocks.

[TMANN]

Heed the advice of others above and you'll probably be fine through May. Then it depends on what group you are running in. By "get back on the track" it seems you might be in Novice/Intermediate(?) at least for the first few events. By June the tracks are warming up here, plus the E9x weight, S65 heat, and keeping pace in your group will contribute to significant tire deg and possible separation issues.
Absolute must do fresh brake fluid flush at start of the season. You will wear through pads more quickly due to lower grip with the AS3 and the longer brake application will heat up your brake fluid. Keep an eye on pads, fluid and tire pressure after each session.
If no camber plates the front AS3 shoulders will be quite worn after 1-2 events (May-June), should be ok in wet Mar-Apr.
Good luck and maybe I'll see you out at Pacific, Ridge or ORP?

[dparm]

Originally Posted by Montaver

AS/3's are the best kept secret in the Michelin lineup IMO, nothing beats their all round capability. Not track tires obviously, but feel very similar to PSS on the street. For cold dry and wet weather in particular they are goldilocks.

From what I've seen, their dry performance matches the old PS2 summer tire.