Toyo Speed into Rockingham

When Toyo decided to introduce two new tyres to the UK market, the company did it in style. The Proxes T1-R and R888 made their debut at Europe’s fastest racetrack, Rockingham Motorspeedway, highlighting the new lines’ ultra-high performance calibre. Dealers and press representatives from all over the UK spent two days at the 200mph circuit test driving the new tyres in BMW 330 coupes and Mini Cooper S cars.

It is clear that Toyo is proud of its new products what’s more the tyre manufacturer is confident about the new tyres’ performance. The T1-R’s predecessor, the T1-S, received excellent reviews in the European media and the new tyre is expected to receive similarly good results when it is tested independently. Perhaps that is why Toyo representatives were so keen for their tyres to be put to the test at the Rockingham circuit.

Toyo has really focused on the handling and wet performance of the T1-R, as it did with its predecessor. In addition Toyo have aimed to reduce the noise level of the T1-S. In order to achieve these goals, Toyo embarked on a completely new construction that utilised a more rigid carcass, based on either rayon or polyester, depending on the size. This modification is responsible for the impressive traction observed by drivers at Rockingham. Handling was improved by using flexible belts within the carcass and a one-piece nylon band in the tread shoulder is responsible for positively influencing the uniformity and high-speed performance of the tyre. The improved handling that made an impact on the slalom course has come by virtue of a stiffer bead construction. All the tyres in the range will include a rim guard to protect against curb damage.