Oh my God, no spare RX8 tyres in Australia!
#1
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Kariong near Gosford NSW
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
![Exclamation](https://www.rx8club.com/images/icons/icon4.gif)
Well, it seems that it is all in the timing ![Wink](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/wink.gif)
Two days ago on a Saturday when setting of from home I noticed that the backend was a bit "loose" so I pulled into the local servo less than 1Km from home to check the tyres. The passenger side rear seemed almost, but not quiet, flat so I added some air and waited to see if it went down again with a fast leak. Seemed OK so then went on to the closest tyre palace to get it inspected and repaired if required.
One 2-inch self-tapping screw was embeded into the tread and had caused the leak, and inspecting the inside of the sidewall it was observed that the tyre was buggered. So 1Km at relatively low speed on one of these tyres while it is flat will destroy it. Even though, when flat, these tyres look as though they have about 20% air in them.
This is where the nightmare begins!
When dealer checks for available Bridgstone RE040 225/45R18 tyre, the answer comes up zero. So that means in Gosford, right? No, well in NSW, right? No, well where in Australia then? What!!! Bridgestone have none in Australia!!!!!
Well then talking today with Bridgestone the local Bob Jane dealer finds that there is one in SA, so when he trys to order it he is told sorry but it is sold and there aren't anymore, and the tyres are on backorder and will be in Aus in about "6 BLOODY WEEKS!!!!!!"
Bridgestone won't keep stock of these high performance low volume tyres even though they are the factory fitted standard for the growing number of RX8s in Aus.
Local Mazda dealer is trying hard through MA, but not looking good![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
So treat those rare tyres well for the next month or so. Check them for pressures every single day. Avoid sharp objects on the road. And pray that nobody decides to slash one. Because you will either have to drive around on the "Donkey Wheel" for many weeks, or park it in the garage and find another form of transport!
I will be persuing a replacement set of 4 suitable, and avialable tyres, from Bridgestone. For which I will gladly return the 3 slightly used (around 9K) OEM factory tyres that currently support my 8, for the price of one replacement standard tyre. Maybe they could front with say a 235/40R18 set, that would be nice. As long as they kept stock in Aus for replacements!
So beware and good luck to all!
![Wink](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/wink.gif)
Two days ago on a Saturday when setting of from home I noticed that the backend was a bit "loose" so I pulled into the local servo less than 1Km from home to check the tyres. The passenger side rear seemed almost, but not quiet, flat so I added some air and waited to see if it went down again with a fast leak. Seemed OK so then went on to the closest tyre palace to get it inspected and repaired if required.
One 2-inch self-tapping screw was embeded into the tread and had caused the leak, and inspecting the inside of the sidewall it was observed that the tyre was buggered. So 1Km at relatively low speed on one of these tyres while it is flat will destroy it. Even though, when flat, these tyres look as though they have about 20% air in them.
This is where the nightmare begins!
When dealer checks for available Bridgstone RE040 225/45R18 tyre, the answer comes up zero. So that means in Gosford, right? No, well in NSW, right? No, well where in Australia then? What!!! Bridgestone have none in Australia!!!!!
Well then talking today with Bridgestone the local Bob Jane dealer finds that there is one in SA, so when he trys to order it he is told sorry but it is sold and there aren't anymore, and the tyres are on backorder and will be in Aus in about "6 BLOODY WEEKS!!!!!!"
Bridgestone won't keep stock of these high performance low volume tyres even though they are the factory fitted standard for the growing number of RX8s in Aus.
Local Mazda dealer is trying hard through MA, but not looking good
![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
So treat those rare tyres well for the next month or so. Check them for pressures every single day. Avoid sharp objects on the road. And pray that nobody decides to slash one. Because you will either have to drive around on the "Donkey Wheel" for many weeks, or park it in the garage and find another form of transport!
I will be persuing a replacement set of 4 suitable, and avialable tyres, from Bridgestone. For which I will gladly return the 3 slightly used (around 9K) OEM factory tyres that currently support my 8, for the price of one replacement standard tyre. Maybe they could front with say a 235/40R18 set, that would be nice. As long as they kept stock in Aus for replacements!
So beware and good luck to all!
![EEK!](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/eek.gif)
#2
Aussie Rx8
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Posts: 79
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I almost had a flat the other day. Scared the crap outta me.... thought there was a screw in there like yours tonym, but alas, it was just a stone that was easily removed.
Now hearing this story, am I glad I didn't have a flat.......
Now hearing this story, am I glad I didn't have a flat.......
#5
Shifty Bastard.
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Melbourne, Australia.
Posts: 4,835
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by rotarenvy
good time to plug my std tyres all 4 for $700 about 9k easy km's on them ![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
pics posted on request.
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
pics posted on request.
Did you sell the rims? Whad'ya get for 'em?
#6
Originally Posted by Gomez
Did you sell the rims? Whad'ya get for 'em?
same with the tyres they are a bargain buy but unfortunatly I can't use them on my 9" rims
![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
so I don't steal the thread
tonym don't buy falken zeix tyres they are cheep for a reason. unfortunatly I did make the mistake and went with the tyre shops sugestion instead of ordering something in.
#8
cry me a river...
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Syd / Melb
Posts: 4,475
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
if this is an on going issue, why dont you change all four with other brand and keep/sale the other 3 tyres.
this way you will always be able to get replacement tyres
this way you will always be able to get replacement tyres
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#14
Race Steward
iTrader: (1)
I put 245/40 Yokohamas on for only a few dollars more then the Bridgestones. I found I got slightly ripped off for price, so they are available cheaper.
If you go to 235/40 they are much cheaper then the stock 225/45, as this is a common Commodore size. The only problem is the rolling diameter is too small IMHO.
Or for about 1/2 the price of the yoko's I put on, you can get the same size in a Nankang. I put a set of these "top shelf" directionals on my wifes Mazda '6, and wished I had given them a go on the '8. I would have saved about $850.
Cheers,
Hymee.
If you go to 235/40 they are much cheaper then the stock 225/45, as this is a common Commodore size. The only problem is the rolling diameter is too small IMHO.
Or for about 1/2 the price of the yoko's I put on, you can get the same size in a Nankang. I put a set of these "top shelf" directionals on my wifes Mazda '6, and wished I had given them a go on the '8. I would have saved about $850.
Cheers,
Hymee.
#16
www.rx8club.com.au
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Sydney, Australia
Posts: 681
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I got a 1cm bolt through my tyre took it to my mates goodyear shop and he mushroom plugged it
Feels as good as new ![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Though I would say another 8k worth of MY driving on the tyres and I will need a replacement.
I wouild go with the Yokies![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Regards
Phillip
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Though I would say another 8k worth of MY driving on the tyres and I will need a replacement.
I wouild go with the Yokies
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Regards
Phillip
#17
Originally Posted by Lock & Load
i will seriously look at the Nankang 245/40 /18 97w i can get into them for $200 a piece seems great value
cheers
michael
![Cool](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/cool.gif)
cheers
michael
If they're the NSII type, they'll certainly give you the best bang for your bucks....... I've got them in 19's on my rims......... not bad, but not the best either........ you get what you pay for I guess.
#18
New Member
I found a set of Michellin Pilot sport PS2 mixed with Pilot sport up with the size 235/40-18. They are willing to be on my wheel for $160/tyre. I have to check their thread first.
I might be able to sell my front 2 for $300 a pair, they are about 70% thread cf my rear only about 30-40%
I might be able to sell my front 2 for $300 a pair, they are about 70% thread cf my rear only about 30-40%
#19
Shifty Bastard.
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Melbourne, Australia.
Posts: 4,835
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I don't think I could put Nankang tyres on my car....I'm still grappling with the idea that Kuhmo's may be acceptable. A tyre company needs a bit of history in this country before I'm prepared to part with my hard earned on them.
Maybe I'm a brand *****...
And second hand tyres I don't know the history of??? No thanks....
Gomez.
Maybe I'm a brand *****...
![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
And second hand tyres I don't know the history of??? No thanks....
Gomez.
#20
New Member
Originally Posted by Gomez
And second hand tyres I don't know the history of??? No thanks....
#21
Race Steward
iTrader: (1)
So far I am quite impressed with the Nankang's on the Mazda 6.
I guess it gets down to giving these a go at $200 a pop:
![](http://www.nankangtyres.com.au/getimageLarge.php?id=36)
Or...
Spending up big on these at $400 a pop:
![](http://www.yokohama.com.au/dbimage.asp?type=tyre&ImageID=26&Height=240&Width=180&JPegQuality=55&NoImage=%2FIMAGES%2FNoImage%2Ftyre%2Ejpg)
Part of the "old school" in my likes those 2 circumferential channels in the Nankangs that are missing from the Yoko's.
2nd hand rag tyres might be OK for track days or burn outs.
Cheers,
Hymee.
I guess it gets down to giving these a go at $200 a pop:
Or...
Spending up big on these at $400 a pop:
Part of the "old school" in my likes those 2 circumferential channels in the Nankangs that are missing from the Yoko's.
2nd hand rag tyres might be OK for track days or burn outs.
Cheers,
Hymee.
#23
looks are looks not how they perform.
there are to many traps in finding a decent tyre.
I have found softer rubber doesn't necessarily mean more grip. my falkens feel softer when you prod them with your finger nail than the re40's yet the falkens seem to have less grip off the line and round corners and in the wet
![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
there are to many traps in finding a decent tyre.
I have found softer rubber doesn't necessarily mean more grip. my falkens feel softer when you prod them with your finger nail than the re40's yet the falkens seem to have less grip off the line and round corners and in the wet
![EEK!](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/eek.gif)
Last edited by rotarenvy; 03-01-2005 at 04:50 AM.
#24
Originally Posted by rotarenvy
looks are looks not how they perform.
there are to many traps in finding a decent tyre.
I have found softer rubber doesn't necessarily mean more grip. my falkens feel softer when you prod them with your finger nail than the re40's yet the falkens seem to have less grip off the line and round corners and in the wet![EEK!](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/eek.gif)
![Frown](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/frown.gif)
there are to many traps in finding a decent tyre.
I have found softer rubber doesn't necessarily mean more grip. my falkens feel softer when you prod them with your finger nail than the re40's yet the falkens seem to have less grip off the line and round corners and in the wet
![EEK!](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/eek.gif)
Very true........ which Falkens do you have?