Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 Review: The Tire That Grips and Rips

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Are you a driving enthusiast looking for a tire that can deliver exhilarating performance both on the street and at the track? Look no further than the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2. This ultra-high performance summer tire is engineered to satisfy even the most demanding drivers, offering a perfect blend of blistering dry grip, precise handling, and impressive wet traction.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Eagle RS-A2 a standout choice for sports cars, muscle cars, and high-powered sedans. We’ll explore its advanced design and construction, evaluate its performance in various conditions, and compare it to its top competitors. Whether you’re carving up twisty backroads or pushing the limits on track day, we’ll help you decide if the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is the right tire to elevate your driving experience.

So buckle up and get ready to discover why the Eagle RS-A2 has become a favorite among performance car enthusiasts who demand the utmost in grip, responsiveness, and driving excitement.

Overview of the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 Tire

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is a high-performance summer tire designed for sports cars, muscle cars, and high-powered coupes and sedans. It’s the latest iteration in Goodyear’s legendary Eagle line of ultra-high-performance tires, which dates back to the 1980s. The Eagle RS-A2 builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Eagle RS-A, with enhanced grip, handling, and durability for extreme street and occasional track use.

This tire is engineered to deliver blistering dry grip and precise steering response for drivers who demand the utmost in handling performance. Advanced silica-based tread compounds provide impressive traction in wet conditions as well. Whether you’re carving corners on a twisty backroad or attacking the circuit on a track day, the Eagle RS-A2 aims to inspire confidence with its responsive yet forgiving character.

Design and Construction

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is an ultra-high performance summer tire engineered with advanced compounds and construction methods to deliver exceptional grip and handling capabilities. The tread compound utilizes a silica-enhanced rubber mixture that maximizes traction on dry and wet surfaces while promoting even wear characteristics.

Beneath the tread, the tire features a twin-steel belt package reinforced with spirally wrapped nylon overlays. This robust internal structure enhances steering precision and high-speed stability while resisting centrifugal growth on the outer shoulders. The polyester carcass plies are strategically reinforced with high-tensile steel filaments to provide superior strength and durability.

During the manufacturing process, Goodyear employs specialized building techniques to optimize the tire’s footprint and contact patch. The tread blocks are designed with a continuous rib pattern along the centerline for confident straight-line tracking, complemented by deeply sculpted outer shoulder blocks for tenacious cornering grip. Additionally, the tire’s symmetrical non-directional tread pattern ensures consistent performance throughout its serviceable life.

With its advanced rubber compounds, robust internal architecture, and precision manufacturing, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 delivers the responsive handling, traction, and durability expected from a top-tier ultra-high performance summer tire.

Dry Grip and Handling Performance

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 delivers exceptional dry grip and handling prowess, making it a top choice for performance-oriented drivers. Its advanced silica-enhanced tread compound bites into dry pavement with tenacious traction, allowing for precise cornering abilities and confident maneuverability.

During spirited driving, the RS-A2 shines with its responsive steering feel and minimal understeer. The tire communicates road surface changes effectively, enabling drivers to confidently push their vehicles to the limit. Transitioning through tight corners and sweeping bends, the RS-A2 maintains an impressive level of lateral grip, inspiring confidence in its cornering capabilities.

Braking performance on dry surfaces is equally impressive. The tire’s compound and tread design work in tandem to provide short stopping distances and reliable deceleration, even from high speeds. This level of dry braking prowess instills a sense of security and control during emergency maneuvers or hard braking scenarios.

At higher velocities, the RS-A2 demonstrates remarkable high-speed stability. Its optimized tread pattern and construction mitigate tread squirm and wandering, allowing for a planted and composed ride, even when pushing the limits on the highway or track. This unwavering stability at speed further contributes to the tire’s overall handling prowess and driver confidence.

Wet Grip and Hydroplaning Resistance

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 delivers impressive wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, making it an excellent choice for driving in rainy conditions. Its advanced tread compound and asymmetric tread pattern are engineered to channel water away from the contact patch, ensuring maximum grip on wet surfaces.

During testing, the RS-A2 demonstrated exceptional wet braking performance, with shorter stopping distances compared to its competitors. This tire’s ability to maintain traction on slick roads instills confidence in the driver, allowing for precise control and predictable handling even when faced with heavy downpours.

Hydroplaning resistance is a crucial factor for safety, and the RS-A2 excels in this area. Its wide circumferential grooves and lateral notches effectively evacuate water from beneath the tire, reducing the risk of losing contact with the road surface at higher speeds. This feature is particularly valuable during sudden heavy rainstorms or when driving through deep puddles.

Overall, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 offers outstanding wet grip and hydroplaning resistance, ensuring a secure and controlled driving experience even in challenging wet weather conditions. Whether navigating through torrential rains or encountering flooded areas, this tire delivers the traction and stability needed for safe and confident driving.

Comfort and Noise Levels

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 delivers a remarkably comfortable and quiet ride for a max performance summer tire. On smooth highways, the tire provides a plush, well-damped ride quality that soaks up minor imperfections with ease. You’ll experience minimal cabin noise at cruising speeds, with just a gentle hum from the tire’s directional tread pattern.

However, as you’d expect from a tire in this category, the ride does become noticeably firmer over rougher surfaces like broken pavement or concrete highways. There’s no getting around the stiffer sidewall construction required for high-speed stability and responsiveness. That said, the RS-A2 never feels harsh or jarring, even when pushing it hard through corners.

The tire does an admirable job of minimizing impact harshness from potholes and sharp edges. While not the most forgiving tire in this regard, it strikes a nice balance between impact protection and connected road feel. You’ll feel bumps and drain grooves, but they are well-damped and never harsh.

Overall, Goodyear has tuned the RS-A2 for a surprisingly refined and livable ride quality given its extreme performance capabilities. It’s a comfortable touring tire for daily driving, with the added benefit of impressive grip when you want to have some fun.

Treadwear and Durability

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is designed to deliver impressive treadwear and durability for a high-performance summer tire. With its advanced tread compound and optimized contact patch, the RS-A2 offers consistent wear characteristics and extended tread life, even under spirited driving conditions.

Goodyear rates the RS-A2 with a treadwear warranty of up to 30,000 miles, which is respectable for a max-performance summer tire. However, real-world tread life can vary significantly depending on factors such as driving habits, vehicle weight, tire rotation intervals, and climatic conditions.

Under normal driving conditions, owners can expect the RS-A2 to provide between 20,000 to 25,000 miles of tread life before reaching the wear indicators. However, if the tires are frequently used for track days or aggressive high-performance driving, the tread life may be reduced to as low as 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

The RS-A2’s tread compound is formulated to resist excessive heat buildup and wear, even during sustained high-speed driving or track use. Additionally, the tire’s asymmetric tread pattern helps promote even wear across the contact patch, minimizing the risk of irregular or cupping wear patterns.

While the RS-A2 prioritizes grip and handling over outright treadwear, its durability and consistency in wear make it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts who demand both performance and reasonable tread life from their summer tires.

Track Use and Temperature Resistance

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is engineered to deliver exceptional performance in demanding track conditions and high heat scenarios. Its advanced compound formulation and internal construction allow it to withstand the intense forces and temperatures generated during spirited driving and racing applications.

At elevated temperatures, the RS-A2 maintains its grip and handling characteristics, resisting the common issues of tread compound overheating and deformation. Goodyear’s proprietary heat-resistant tread compound remains pliable and responsive, providing consistent feedback and traction even after multiple hot laps or extended periods of high-speed driving.

Moreover, the tire’s internal structure is designed to dissipate heat effectively, minimizing the risk of excessive heat buildup that can lead to premature wear or failure. The reinforced casing and optimized belt package work in tandem to promote efficient heat transfer, ensuring that the tire remains cool and stable under demanding conditions.

On the track, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 delivers exceptional dry grip and predictable handling characteristics, allowing drivers to push their vehicles to the limit with confidence. The tire’s responsive nature and high cornering grip provide a connected feel, enabling precise steering inputs and quick transitions between corners.

While not explicitly designed for dedicated track use, the RS-A2 can withstand the rigors of occasional track days or high-performance driving events. However, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding inflation pressures, load ratings, and proper cooling periods to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Overall, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2’s impressive heat resistance and temperature stability make it a reliable choice for enthusiasts seeking a tire that can handle the demands of spirited driving and occasional track use without compromising performance or safety.

Sizes and Fitments

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is available in a wide range of sizes to fit many popular sports cars, muscle cars, and high-performance sedans. Offered in diameters from 17 to 20 inches, the tire can accommodate wheel widths from 205mm all the way up to a massive 335mm. This extensive size range allows the RS-A2 to be fitted as original equipment on vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and various BMW, Mercedes, and Audi models.

For those looking to upgrade their vehicle’s tires, the RS-A2 is a popular replacement option for many factory-fitted high-performance tires. It can serve as a direct replacement for tires like the Michelin Pilot Super Sport, Continental ExtremeContact Sport, and Bridgestone Potenza RE050A. The RS-A2’s broad sizing also makes it a great choice for plus-sizing, allowing drivers to upsize their wheel and tire package for improved grip, handling, and aesthetics.

Some of the most common OEM fitments for the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 include sizes like 245/40R19 for the Ford Mustang GT, 275/35R19 for the Chevrolet Camaro SS, and 245/45R18 for the BMW M3. However, with such an extensive range, the RS-A2 can be found on many other high-performance vehicles from various manufacturers.

Price and Value

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is positioned as a premium ultra-high performance summer tire, and its pricing reflects this positioning. The MSRP for the RS-A2 typically ranges from around $150 to $350 per tire, depending on the size and application. This places it slightly above some of the mainstream competition like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S and Continental ExtremeContact Sport, but below the very top tier like the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2.

While the upfront cost is not insignificant, the RS-A2 offers a compelling value proposition when you factor in its impressive performance capabilities across dry, wet, and even track conditions. Goodyear’s expertise in developing race-derived compounds and constructions shines through, delivering grip, responsiveness, and durability that punches above its price point.

Compared to some lower-priced options, the RS-A2 may cost more initially but could end up being the more cost-effective choice in the long run due to its enhanced treadwear and overall longevity. Additionally, the confidence and driving enjoyment it provides could be priceless for many enthusiast drivers.

Ultimately, while not the most budget-friendly option, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 presents a strong performance-per-dollar value for drivers seeking maximum grip and precise handling without breaking the bank on the ultra-expensive, track-focused tires. Its pricing strikes a nice balance between affordability and premium capabilities.

Goodyear Warranty

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 comes with an impressive warranty package that provides peace of mind for buyers. Firstly, the tire is backed by a 6-year/36,000-mile treadwear warranty. This means that if the tire’s tread wears down to 2/32nds of an inch before reaching the specified mileage, Goodyear will replace it with a new tire on a pro-rated basis.

Additionally, the RS-A2 is covered by Goodyear’s Road Hazard Coverage. This protects against damage from potholes, nails, glass, or other road debris that may cause a puncture or other tire damage. If the tire cannot be repaired, Goodyear will replace it with a new one, with the customer only responsible for a pro-rated amount based on the remaining tread depth.

Furthermore, Goodyear offers a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee on the Eagle RS-A2. If a customer is not satisfied with the tire’s performance within the first 30 days of purchase, they can exchange it for a different Goodyear tire of equal or lesser value.

Overall, Goodyear’s warranty package for the Eagle RS-A2 demonstrates their confidence in the tire’s quality and durability, providing buyers with added value and peace of mind.

Installation Tips

Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 tires perform optimally and deliver their promised capabilities. Here are some key installation tips to follow:

Mounting: It’s recommended to have the tires mounted by a professional tire technician who has experience with high-performance tires. Improper mounting can lead to issues like bead leaks, vibrations, and uneven wear. The technician should also ensure that the tires are mounted on the correct wheel width and diameter.

Balancing: Balancing is essential for reducing vibrations, improving ride quality, and extending the life of the tires. The Eagle RS-A2 tires should be properly balanced using the latest equipment and techniques. This may involve using adhesive weights or lead weights, depending on the wheel design.

Rotation: Regular tire rotation is recommended to promote even tread wear and maximize the lifespan of the Eagle RS-A2 tires. Goodyear typically recommends rotating the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or as specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Proper rotation patterns should be followed based on the drive configuration (front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive).

Inflation Pressure: Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is crucial for the Eagle RS-A2 tires to perform as intended. Under-inflation can lead to excessive heat buildup, rapid tread wear, and reduced handling and braking performance. Over-inflation can cause a harsh ride and increased susceptibility to impact damage. Follow the recommended inflation pressures listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the placard located on the driver’s side door jamb.

By following these installation tips, you can ensure that your Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 tires are properly mounted, balanced, rotated, and inflated, allowing you to experience their full potential in terms of grip, handling, and longevity.

Eagle RS-A2 vs Competition

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 competes in the ultra-high performance summer tire category, going up against formidable rivals like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, Continental ExtremeContact Sport, Bridgestone Potenza RE-070, and Pirelli P Zero. While each tire has its strengths, the RS-A2 stands out with its excellent dry grip and steering response.

Compared to the Michelin PS4S, often considered the benchmark in this segment, the RS-A2 offers slightly better dry traction and a more communicative feel during hard cornering. However, the PS4S tends to have an edge in wet grip and hydroplaning resistance. The Continental ExtremeContact Sport matches the RS-A2’s dry performance but falls a bit short in terms of steering precision and feedback.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE-070 and Pirelli P Zero are also strong contenders, with the RE-070 excelling in high-speed stability and the P Zero delivering superb handling and braking on dry surfaces. Yet, both tires may not quite match the RS-A2’s overall balance of grip, responsiveness, and comfort on the street.

It’s worth noting that while the RS-A2 is an excellent all-around performer, tires like the PS4S and P Zero may have a slight edge on the track or in extreme performance driving scenarios. However, for most enthusiasts who want a tire that combines impressive dry road manners with reasonable wet performance and a comfortable ride, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is a compelling choice among its peers.

Summary and Recommendations

The Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is an ultra-high performance summer tire designed for sports cars, muscle cars, and high-powered sedans. Its key strengths lie in its exceptional dry grip, precise steering response, and impressive cornering abilities at high speeds. The tire’s advanced silica-enhanced tread compound provides tenacious traction on dry roads, while the directional tread pattern and wide circumferential grooves enhance water evacuation for reliable wet grip. However, the tire’s soft tread compound means it may wear down faster than some competitors, especially with aggressive driving styles.

For driving enthusiasts who prioritize maximum dry performance and don’t mind replacing tires more frequently, the Eagle RS-A2 is an excellent choice. It excels on the track, offering high-speed stability and consistent lap times. On the street, it delivers precise turn-in, excellent cornering grip, and responsive handling that will satisfy even the most demanding drivers.

While the Eagle RS-A2 performs well in wet conditions, it may not be the ideal choice for areas with frequent heavy rainfall or harsh wintry conditions, as it lacks the specialized tread design and compound for those environments. Additionally, its firm sidewall construction can contribute to increased road noise and a slightly harsher ride compared to some touring tires.

In summary, the Goodyear Eagle RS-A2 is a top contender for sports cars, performance sedans, and muscle cars driven primarily in dry, warm conditions. Its strengths lie in its exceptional dry grip, cornering abilities, and high-speed stability, making it an excellent choice for track days and spirited street driving. While it may wear down faster than some competitors, its performance capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for driving enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating and confidence-inspiring driving experience.