Riken Raptor VR Tire Review & Rating

The Raptor VR from Riken offers high performance traction and handling to go with a price point that is up to 50% less than other comparable brand tires in its class. Engineered for drivers of sport coupes, compacts and smaller sedans, this tire features some of the latest in new tire technology.

An advanced tread compound combined with a directional tread pattern is designed to give drivers maximum handling and cornering power, which this model adequately provides. You can expect crisp cornering and steering response due to the high modulus composition sidewall.

Wet traction is enhanced through a multi-sipe design and wider tread channels that evacuate more water away from the tire and reduce hydroplaning. Riken has used a computer-phased tread design on the VR to give the tire minimal road noise and enhanced overall ride quality.

Inside the tire you will find two steel belts with a double strip-wound nylon overlay which gives the tire added strength and stability at higher speeds. It also provides increased durability and more even tire wear.

There is also a rim protector built into the tread to protect your expensive custom wheels, and Riken backs up the tire with a 50,000 mile tread guarantee.

Click Here To Find Current Price On All Riken Raptor VR Tire Sizes

Pros

• Excellent grip and cornering ability
• Ride is comfortable and smooth
• Tire costs 40-50% less than comparable brands
• 50,000 mile tread warranty

Cons

• Not for winter weather road conditions

Overall Thoughts

Like its brother the ZR, this Riken VR is a lot of fun to drive on. It is pretty cool to get some of the same high performance characteristics from this tire as you would from one of many other more “popular” brands…for less than half the price. Add in a 50,000 mile tread warranty, which is uncommon for tires in this class, and you have a winner.

The only downside worth mentioning is that this model does not do well in winter weather. It is a summer driving tire. The bottom line is that the Raptor VR is priced incredibly low for the high performance it delivers.

What Vehicles Will The Raptor VR Fit?

(This is not a complete list of ALL vehicles this tire will fit)

• Acura Legend
• Chevrolet Cavalier
• Dodge Stratus R/T, Neon
• Ford Escort, Focus, Fusion, Taurus
• Honda Civic
• Kia Optima
• Mazda 3
• Nissan 200SX
• Pontiac Grand Am
• Subaru Forester
• Suzuki Aerio

Tire Sizes

15″

195/55R-15 85V BSW

16″

215/60R-16 95V BSW

17″

215/55R-17 94V BSW

Price Range

Prices on the Raptor range from approximately $72 and up. You may also find occasional rebates, discounts, coupons and special offers on this tire.

Click Here To Find Current Price On All Riken Raptor VR Tire Sizes

Warranty

A 50,000 mile treadlife warranty is provided on the VR. There is also a first 2/32 inch guarantee on the tire’s uniformity. In addition, materials and workmanship are backed for 5 years.

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