Slicks in the Wet

For racers competing in endurance racing or high-performance driving events (HPDE) with a Mazda Miata or MX-5, tire selection is one of the most crucial decisions. The 200 treadwear (TW) category has become the go-to for many grassroots racers, offering a balance of durability, grip, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you're running WRL, ChampCar, SCCA Time Trials, or NASA HPDE, the right tire can make or break your performance.

Why 200 TW Tires?

Tires in the 200 TW class offer a sweet spot between outright grip and longevity. While they don’t provide the ultimate speed of a dedicated race slick or R-compound tire, they last significantly longer and meet the rule requirements for many endurance and street-legal racing series. These tires provide:

• Consistent Performance Over Stints – Unlike softer compounds that fall off quickly, 200 TW tires maintain a predictable grip level.
• Durability for Endurance Racing – Longer tread life means fewer tire changes during a race, saving both time and money.
• Affordability and Availability – Many brands offer competitive options at reasonable prices, and they are often readily available.

Let’s break down the top choices for 200 TW tires when racing a Mazda Miata or MX-5.

Top 200 TW Tire Models for Endurance Racing & HPDE

1. Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS

Pros:

• Exceptional grip, near-R-compound levels
• Fastest laps early in a stint
• Responsive turn-in and great feedback

Cons:

• Wears quickly in endurance settings
• Performance fades as heat cycles accumulate

The RE-71RS is a favorite among time attack drivers and sprint racers, but in endurance racing, its longevity can be a limiting factor. If you’re focused on outright lap times in HPDE, this is one of the best options.

2. BFGoodrich g-Force Rival S 1.5

Pros:

• Excellent heat resistance for endurance use
• Predictable handling characteristics
• Good wet performance compared to others in the class

Cons:

• Slightly slower initial grip than Bridgestone
• Not the lightest tire, which may affect acceleration slightly

A solid choice for endurance racing, the Rival S 1.5 delivers a great mix of longevity and grip, making it ideal for Miata drivers looking to maintain consistent lap times over a race stint.

3. Hankook Ventus RS4

Pros:

• One of the most durable 200 TW tires
• Tolerates multiple heat cycles well
• Good wet-weather performance

Cons:

• Slightly less outright grip than others on this list
• Takes longer to reach peak performance

The RS4 is a staple in endurance racing. While it might not have the peak grip of an RE-71RS, its ability to stay consistent over long stints makes it a favorite for teams looking to minimize tire changes.

4. Continental ExtremeContact Force

Pros:

• Developed specifically for endurance racing
• Consistent lap times over long stints
• Decent wet grip

Cons:

• Not as sharp in initial turn-in response
• Still relatively new, with limited long-term data

Continental entered the 200 TW market with a focus on endurance racers. This tire is designed to provide steady grip over long runs, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious teams.

5. Toyo Proxes R1R

Pros:

• Strong in wet conditions
• Good balance of grip and longevity
• Comfortable ride for street/track dual use

Cons:

• Not as sticky as the RE-71RS or Rival S
• Can overheat in high-temperature endurance events

The R1R is a great option for HPDE drivers who also use their Miata on the street. While it may not have the sheer pace of the RE-71RS, it holds up well in varying conditions.

Best Picks Based on Racing Needs

• For Endurance Racing (ChampCar, WRL, etc.): Hankook RS4, Continental ExtremeContact Force
• For HPDE and Time Trials: Bridgestone RE-71RS, BFGoodrich Rival S 1.5
• For Mixed Street/Track Use: Toyo Proxes R1R

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 200 TW tire for your Miata or MX-5 depends on your goals—whether you’re prioritizing outright grip, longevity, or a balance of both. For endurance racing, the Hankook RS4 and Continental ExtremeContact Force provide excellent wear characteristics, while the Bridgestone RE-71RS remains the top choice for setting fast laps in time attack or HPDE events.

Ultimately, tire selection should be based on track conditions, driving style, and race format. No matter which tire you choose, proper pressure management and heat cycling are critical to maximizing performance and longevity.