Nankang NS2R review
The Nankang NS2R is widely regarded as a high-value, track-oriented semi-slick tire that offers impressive dry grip and stiff, communicative handling at a competitive price point. While users consistently praise its performance on the circuit and in dry conditions, they frequently note significant road noise and a requirement for heat to reach optimal grip levels, making it a polarizing choice for daily driving.
Two scoring systems, side by side
Owner scores come from reviews on retailer and review sites; road-test scores come from instrumented tests. Where they disagree, it is usually a discipline owners rarely push to the limit.
By owner reviews
75%What owners like and dislike
Themes extracted from 64 owner reviews across retailers and review sites.
The Nankang NS2R is widely regarded as a high-value, track-oriented semi-slick tire that offers impressive dry grip and stiff, communicative handling at a competitive price point. While users consistently praise its performance on the circuit and in dry conditions, they frequently note significant road noise and a requirement for heat to reach optimal grip levels, making it a polarizing choice for daily driving.
Pros
- Exceptional dry grip and handling performance for the price
- Stiff sidewall construction providing precise steering feedback
- High durability and tread life compared to other track-focused tires
- Consistent performance on track without rapid overheating
- Excellent value-for-money proposition
Cons
- Excessive road noise often mistaken for failing wheel bearings
- Poor wet weather performance and high risk of hydroplaning
- Requires significant heat to achieve maximum grip
- Stiff ride quality can be uncomfortable for daily commuting
Worth knowing
- Lightweight vehicles (e.g., Miata, Swift Sport) report excellent handling and predictable grip, though they may struggle to generate enough heat in the tires for optimal performance.
- Heavier or high-horsepower vehicles benefit from the stiff XL sidewalls, which prevent rollover during aggressive cornering.
- Users note that the 120 treadwear (soft) compound offers superior grip but wears faster than the 180 treadwear (street) compound.