scruffydog

I have about 1 more track day left and I'm due for a new set of wheels.

My current setup is on my stock '10 Sports Rays:
Bridgestone Potenza RE-11:
Front: 265/35 R19 - $322/ea
Rear: 285/35 R19 - $313/ea
Total: $1329

I love the RE-11s. The stock RE50A I was able to get more miles compared to the RE11s, but for about 3000 miles less, the car sticks to the ground thru track SOOO MUCH Better. It handles really really well dry.

I track my car 4-6 times a year, I rarely drive my car as it costs a lot in gas and tires. I only drive my car once or twice throughout the week if I work on weekends or if it rains. Normally I ride my CBR to work.

I am having a wedding this coming summer so I'm trying to make the best decision with how I'll spend my money for the next set of tires and possibly a new set of wheels. I'm looking to spend about $1,600-$1,800 at most.

Option 1:
My initial thoughts are to get a set of used 18's that'll be dedicated for track. I'll prolly get some Hankook RS3s or RE-11s and try to hold out as much as I can with my current set of RE-11s and when it's due, I'll get a set of cheaper & less grippage tires like Hankook Ventus Evo V12.

Pro:
-I was thinking of upping the rear width from 10" to 10.5".
-Cheaper tires
-Better handling for track?

Con:
-For some decent looking wheels may cost more than my budget and may be heavier than my Stock Forged Rays unless I fork out a lot of money.

Option 2:
My second thoughts were to buy a set of used Sport Rays 19" with tires. I see a member selling a set w/ RE50A of 3500 miles for ~$1,600. This will temporarily hold me up and will allow me to have 2 sets of tires. 1 set of Grippy tires and 1 set of daily driving if needed that'll last me longer.

Pro:
-Looks good and are considered to be pretty good wheels (i.e. Forged, Rays, etc)
-Probably easier to obtain a great deal
-Tires will come with the package
Con:
-I'm stuck with stock widths, limitations of going more aggressive
-19" will cost more in the long run and I assume it's a less desirable for track as it weighs and cost more than 18"

Option 3:
Buy another set of RE11's or Hankook RS3

Pros:
-Probably the cheapest option for now
Cons:
-In the long run I am still in the same boat and be tracking on 19".
-I won't have set of dedicated tires/wheels for track and everyday driving, I would prefer to have something that can give me longer range for street. My RE-11 allows me to get less than 12K miles.

I know it's a lengthly post, but any advice would be appreciated! I'm open to hear any experience you guys have/had.

~Cheers