Hi guys
Feedback on the new Avon CR6ZZ tyres:
Following a cracking drive down to the AC Sprint at Goodwood this weekend with sunny skies and dry roads, I managed to get together some early view on these fantastic new tyres.
First, the ride is now noticeably smoother. The extra rubber on the 15-inch rims soaks up some of the road surface and softens the bumps, but without loosing 'feel' of the road. Interstingly, I now believe that the feel is better, as the tyres are far less skittish and track much better (combination of the rubber compound and 16-to-15inch conversion).
Road holding:
The tyres are very grippy, even when cold. I've already mentioned that they have a nice tacky feel and this gets noticeably stickier as the tyres warm up. However, I am well aware that the softer compound will have shorter life than my old tyres. Considering the relatively low mileage spent in the car each year, I do feel that this is a satisfactory compromise.
Cornering is a pleasure! The car hold the road like never before, but again with far more feel and composure. Before the car felt a little twitchy on the bends and I was never 100% sure where the limits of the car were. The tyres retain far more contact with the road, never sliding or 'hopping' across uneven surfaces as they did on the old rubber. Twisting through the forests and passes near Goodwood was a pleasure with the tyres giving me a new level of confidence in the car.
Braking:
For obvious reasons, these tyres brake far better. These cars have great brakes and on the old tyres the wheels sometimes locked up under firm braking when they should not have done so. As you learn a car, you quickly know where it's limits are, making compromises/allowances as you go. With these tyres, I no longer have that 'cold tyre' fear when I leave home. They stop the car quickly with no twitches. Before, different wheels would grip/slow at different times depending on the road surface, unsettling the car and making braking a very involving process. Now, the car slows evenly with composure, the tyres biting into the road surface, leaving me free to focus my attentions on the other things around the car.
High speed:
On fast a/b roads, the car is noticeably steadier. I put this down to both the bigger sidewall giving more consistant road contact and the tyres being that bit softer. The steering is a little lighter (also due to the slightly narrower tread section of 215 vs the original 225) but responds quickly to direction change.
Honestly, I cannot say enough about these tyres. The old tyres are sitting in my garage on the old 16-inch rims. I'll save them for a track day one day but would never sell them on as I would not trust them on another road car. Anyone who wants to come for a ride and see the difference for themselves is welcome.
My advice - get safe and trade up ! It's been well worth the £2,825 investment.
Bruce
