The Test Subject
Some people want performance out of their all-season tire, and some people want their tire to save them money. Blend these two requests together and you get the new Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS tire. Situated squarely between the Ecopia EP422 tire and the RE970AS Pole Position tire, the RE97AS gives you a good amount of grip without taking the fun out of driving
The Tests
There were two venues on which I had the opportunity to try Bridgestone’s tire products: First, on a BMW 328i on which we did back-to-back comparisons with the aforementioned tires. It was clear that the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS really does fit the mold of the middle child, but not in a bad way.
In these exercises, we worked the three sets of tires under heavy braking and sharp corners all on a dry surface. The Bridgetstone Potenza RE97AS didn’t disappoint, especially for someone looking for tires that aren’t too expensive, but still give you the ability to have fun on sunny days.
Then we put the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS tire to the test on a wet skid pad where they were equipped on Acura TLs, and we compared them to the Michelin Primacy MXM4 tire.
The Blend
Comprised of a high silica content, this component offers dependable traction in wet environments. You also have the finely tuned tread pattern on the Bridgestone Potenza RE87AS that upgrades the steering feel and responsiveness. Stiffened shoulder blocks help with cornering, and circumferential grooves channel water away from the footprint area.
Like its other siblings, the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS has an eco-product designation. What does that mean? Well, for starters, it uses environmentally conscious materials, like non-aromatic oils. When driving on them, there is an improved rolling resistance, which helps increase fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle emissions.
The Verdict
In both settings, the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS put on a splendid performance. Compared with the Michelins in the wet, both seemed to fair well against each other, but the Bridgestones had a little bit more grip, proving to be a good match in that environment. Besides, it’s not always sunshine and roses on the road, so having a reliable set of tires makes a huge difference in adverse conditions.
Specifications
- V- and W-speed rated
- 16”-19” rim diameters
- 45 to 60 series
- 25 sizes
- 55,000 mile limited treadwear warranty (V-rated)
- 45,000 mile limited treadwear warranty (W-rated)
- Platinum pact warranty
- 30 Day Buy & Try Guarantee
Some people want performance out of their all-season tire, and some people want their tire to save them money. Blend these two requests together and you get the new Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS tire. Situated squarely between the Ecopia EP422 tire and the RE970AS Pole Position tire, the RE97AS gives you a good amount of grip without taking the fun out of driving
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| Photo: Alexandra Straub |
The Tests
There were two venues on which I had the opportunity to try Bridgestone’s tire products: First, on a BMW 328i on which we did back-to-back comparisons with the aforementioned tires. It was clear that the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS really does fit the mold of the middle child, but not in a bad way.
In these exercises, we worked the three sets of tires under heavy braking and sharp corners all on a dry surface. The Bridgetstone Potenza RE97AS didn’t disappoint, especially for someone looking for tires that aren’t too expensive, but still give you the ability to have fun on sunny days.
Then we put the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS tire to the test on a wet skid pad where they were equipped on Acura TLs, and we compared them to the Michelin Primacy MXM4 tire.
The Blend
Comprised of a high silica content, this component offers dependable traction in wet environments. You also have the finely tuned tread pattern on the Bridgestone Potenza RE87AS that upgrades the steering feel and responsiveness. Stiffened shoulder blocks help with cornering, and circumferential grooves channel water away from the footprint area.
Like its other siblings, the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS has an eco-product designation. What does that mean? Well, for starters, it uses environmentally conscious materials, like non-aromatic oils. When driving on them, there is an improved rolling resistance, which helps increase fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle emissions.
The Verdict
In both settings, the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS put on a splendid performance. Compared with the Michelins in the wet, both seemed to fair well against each other, but the Bridgestones had a little bit more grip, proving to be a good match in that environment. Besides, it’s not always sunshine and roses on the road, so having a reliable set of tires makes a huge difference in adverse conditions.
Specifications
- V- and W-speed rated
- 16”-19” rim diameters
- 45 to 60 series
- 25 sizes
- 55,000 mile limited treadwear warranty (V-rated)
- 45,000 mile limited treadwear warranty (W-rated)
- Platinum pact warranty
- 30 Day Buy & Try Guarantee
 |
| Photo: Alexandra Straub |