Tires

Upgrade your wheels with performance tires

Wheels make the car - if your wheels don't look good, then your car won't either. Luckily, a brand new set of wheels can make any vehicle look good, whether it's a car, truck, SUV or even a van. If you're thinking about putting a hot new set of rims on your ride, then you'll also want a new set of performance tires.

Aftermarket tires not only provide better performance, they also make your vehicle look phenomenal. Performance tires are usually purchased along with a set of rims, and often, the two are available in package deals.

Performance tires have a wider design for more traction with the road, so the vehicle hugs the pavement and handles sharp curves. They also feature shorter sidewalls so you see more of the rim and less of the rubber.

Be advised that performance tires are not meant for the snow or cold temperatures, so if you live in a city that sees winter you'll need a second set of tires for the colder months. Proper maintenance of your tires includes regular cleaning, tire rotation (for evenly distributed wear) and maintaining stable air pressure - never drive on under-inflated tires! Commercial tire cleaner is also favorable as it not only protects the rubber, but will also have your tires shining black as night.

Popular performance tires

The performance level of aftermarket tires depends on their application - whether they are to be used for street / drag racing or to enhance the appearance of your vehicle. The following are some of the most popular brands and models of performance tires:

• BF Goodrich g-Force T/A Drag Radial Tires - This is an enhanced version of the first approved street-legal drag racing tire, designed for drag racing applications. The tread block design allows for more traction under high torque loads. These tires are targeted toward drag racing competitors.
• Yokohama A032R Tires - Another street-legal racing tire, the A032R is a proven American and European winner. The symmetric pattern, high-grip tread compound and shallow tread-depth allow for exceptional braking and cornering. This is a road racing tire designed for drivers who seek serious performance.
• BF Goodrich g-Force T/A KDW TT Tires - These summer tires deliver high performance and a smooth, quiet ride, even at high speeds. They're unidirectional tread design provides good traction in both wet and dry conditions. They also have long-life tread, making them a good partner to your performance rims for daily driving.
• Dunlop SP Sport MAXX Tires - These Dunlop performance tires are suited for luxury sport vehicles. The model is at the top of its class, enhancing both the appearance and performance of high-powered vehicles. It features Dunlop's patented HydroMax technology for superior wet traction.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.