Ive just noticed that Hankook have released a new version of the V12. Its now wet rated A instead of B & looks like the price has near enough stayed the same.
 | While much of Hankook’s range is firmly aimed at the original equipment market this latest version of the V12 is for the tuning aftermarket. That focus has enabled Hankook to opt for a directional tread when most makers have long moved on to asymmetric patterns. One reason for the switch was the noise generated by the original directional patterns and the reluctance of car makers to have tyres mounted for each side of the car on the production line. Once an asymmetric tyre is fitted correctly it can go on either side of the car. Design Looks count in the tuner market which was one reason why Hankook has retained the directional tread but it has worked to bring it up to date. The pattern’s advantage in the wet has been flow-optimised the improve water flow under the tyre with a stiff, lightweight steel belt in the casing to maximise the contact patch under hard cornering. The silica-based compound is claimed to cut braking distance in both wet and dry by up to five per cent over the existing V12 with reduced rolling resistance. Hankook has also worked hard to reduce nose with special block edges and dimples in the sidewall. It shares the S1’s fins in the tread grooves for increased heat loss and to improve water flow plus the alignment warning sipes. Range Initial 25-size range covers 16 to 19-inch rims, 195 to 255 width and 30-50 series. Driving With no comparison tyre and just a couple of laps in a MINI Cooper of a soaking, tight handling circuit impressions are limited, but the wet road prowess of the directional tread was obvious. The turn in was positive and the rear stable despite vigorous provocation. We were also impressed with traction in the wet even with the electronic aids turned off. |
