I did three track weekends on the OEM Bridgestones and they still lasted 30k in the rear. Fronts were victims of bad alignment and died at 21k and 31k (used fronts replaced the originals). There's no need to take wheels and tires especially if you're new to track driving. It's also foolish to buy racing rubber if you're new to track driving. You're way ahead using decent street tires - they're cheaper, last longer, and are a lot more forgiving than any slick in the hands of an inexperienced driver.

 

On the fronts, did you change the alignment for longevity of the tires? I know there's a thread about odd inner wear with factory alignment somewhere, just wonder if you tweaked that alignment for the track vs. Street?

 

Everything I've done is in the "Revisiting the Factory Alignment" thread.

Where are you planning to drive? Carolina Motorsports Park?

 

VIR, but I'm not picky. You been to CMP?

 

My opinion is, it just depends on how much tracking you're looking to do. A good Set of race rubber... is about $1,000... and wheels $1,000... brake pads $600... so call it $2,500 for a 2nd set of everything. If you plan on doing more than 2 weekends... in my opinion it's the better way to go. You don't tear up your street stuff, that all costs the same... if not more... and doesn't handle the abuse nearly as well.

If you are going to do 1 or 2 events 'period'... then buying wheels & tires & brakes... makes no sense.

good luck! enjoy!

Final comment... I paid $2,500 or so for everything I bought, and can probably sell it for $1,500 so again... to me... it made sense, and I'll do more track days.

Peace

 

Great insight. Did you say you bought racing tires or used street tires?

 

ES3, one thing that most driving instructors will tell you is to learn the limits of your car on street tires before moving up to stickier rubber. You get a lot less audible warning with track tires when they give up their grip and have a more gradual release, so catching a tail-out situation is easier.

 

I bought race tires.

Thanks,
Dave