Nankang Sportnex AR-1 195/45 R17 85V XL

The Nankang Sportnex AR-1 is fast, refined, track tire aimed at the track enthusiast who is hunting lap times. With only one compound option and with all tires being produced with 5.5mm tread depth, the AR-1 is positioning itself in amongst the greats of the track tire market.

The AR-1 is used as a control tire in various championships in- and outside of the EU; amongst which BMW 1 series Super Cup, Civic Challenge & Classic VW Cup as well as a podium winning tyre in open tyre series such as Tourismo X,  BMWCCR and 750MC Club Enduro.

As the Nankang range evolves, the AR1's in 17" and above now contain a kevlar lining, this further increases stability and consistency. Specifically designed to combat high intensity circuits such as Nürburgring and Spa Francorchamps.

The Nankang Sportnex AR-1 is available from 12" to 21" and has achieved EU tyre labelling for most sizes giving it MSA List 1B approval.

Scrubbing-In

For most purposes, racing tires will benefit from an appropriate ‘scrubbing-in’ procedure. This provides the best combination of performance and longevity under race conditions.

There are several difficulties that arise when using racing tires if they are not scrubbed in prior to use. The most common is 'Cold Graining', where the layer of the tread compound in contact with the track, fails in shear with the layer below. The result is a very visible low frequency, high amplitude rippling effect. This is more common with new tires particularly when used in wet, damp or greasy conditions.

Nankang Motorsport recommends a standard scrubbing in procedure to be used whenever possible (conditions and regulations allowing). This consists of subjecting the tires through:

• Setting the cold air pressure at an adequate psi to handle the weight of the car;
• On track, gradually increase speed subsequently for a minimum three to four laps;
  • With the first lap at 50%-60% of normal usage;
  • Gradually increasing but not to exceed 85% capacity;
• A cool down lap before coming into pit-lane.

Correctly scrubbed in set of tyres will always give more consistent performance over its (much-improved) lifetime than a set that has been used hard from new; even if it hasn’t grained.

Operation Temperature

Measuring tire tread temperatures can be a useful tool for optimising the handling balance of a vehicle. We recommend measuring the temperature at three points across the width of the tre contact patch (inside, middle and outer).

• Temperature Operating Range: 71°C – 104°C
• Tread Temperature Delta (Inside to Outside shoulder): Max 20°C

The quoted values for temperature operating range are when using a needle style pyrometer and recording temperature at the base of the tread. The inside shoulder temperature should be hotter than the outside shoulder. Surface temperature readings will be approx. 30°C lower but can be used as a guide.