Wheel Upgrade

Today should hopefully be an exciting and not disappointing day. Around 6 months ago I purchased a set of OZ Alleggrita wheels, to change from 16" to 17". This gives more tyre options for the S2K and this is one of only a handful of wheel packages that have correct offsets. Regarding tyres I'm trying something completely new to myself with a mixture of Extreme's and Nankangs. 

In the hill climbing/sprinting community the Extreme's are doing very well with lots of class wins and records. An issue with them is the sizes on offer, as no rear S2K package is currently on offer. It was promised for season start but issues with production have pushed this back to June time. Unfortunately that's too late with the first round of the ANWCC being three days away. Panicking about options I eventually decided on Nankang AR1's. One set arrived but one hasn't, so having to run a mismatch set of Extremes/Nankangs.

I fitted the wheels tonight and took off to the shops just to make sure everything is okay. What a game changing difference. Instantly I can feel the width change in the tyres, the stance feels very confident through the seat and steering. The geometry needs setting correctly as lots of suspension changes have just happened. Turn in is definitely too fast and folding. Feels like a note more camber up front would be excellent. The rear just feels sets off like a dream, rear steady. I know once these tyres are scrubbed in its going to be a formidable package. Really chuffed with the results.

Over winter for a bit of fun a few of the S2K lads booked a novice track day at Oulton Park. It was a great day and so much fun. Everyone was in good spirits and as usual taking the piss out of each other. About a week later after the track day, I noticed the S was looking more orange than blue down the sides. The wheels were also covered thick with orange brake dust. Using clay bars and iron fallout spray I managed to clean the car and some of the wheels. The wheels however are going to need some serious work and potentially the lacquer is ruined. To protect the fancy new OZ's I bought some Gyeon Q2-Rims, which is like ceramic coating for paint but a wheel version. Q2 is a quartz coating able to withstand high temperatures, repelling brake dust and dirt. Ideal for a track wheel. I've lathered about 3 coatings onto them whilst brand new and off the car. Will keep posted on how well they hold up.

 Few snaps from the track day;