Drivers can attest that the best set of radial tires is the answer to exemplary road performance. In addition, the best radial tires for towing vehicles improve handling on the track and on the road.
Radial drag tires are an attractive option for drivers who own road cars and occasionally hit the local track. They are also attractive to anyone who uses high performance on a touring car and is looking for an advantage in straight-line traction that is often difficult to find with traditional radial tires.
DOT-compliant road radial tires are the dividing line between a tire you can drive every day and a tire that delivers peak performance in the quarter mile on prepared surfaces. However, as with any other specialty tire, their capabilities are limited when used outside of the environment for which they were designed.
Traditional bias-ply tires cannot handle the load of normal driving. Their very flexible sidewalls make them unsuitable for cornering, nor do they heat up well at highway speeds. The ability to twist the sidewalls is a huge advantage that increases traction and protects the drivetrain when starting out but also leads to dangerous handling characteristics due to flexing, not to mention dangerous wet behavior due to the slippery treadless surface.
What Is The Best Drag Radial For Street?
At what point is the decision made to use drag radials on the road? In short, if you only plan to drive your car occasionally (to and from the track or on short trips), in the warmer months of the year, and don’t need to drive in the rain, then a drag radial is a good choice as an “all-purpose” tire. If, on the other hand, you use your vehicle as a commuter and only go to the track occasionally on weekends, then it makes more sense to fit a set of drag radials on an “as-needed” basis.
But which are the best drag radials to buy? How to choose good drag racing tires for dragsters? People who don’t know how to choose drag racing tires are on the right platform to check out this article.
Best Drag Radial For Street | Comparison Table 2024
Top Quality | 5- Star Picks | Great Prices
| Preview | Product | Features | Price $$ |
 | Mickey Thompson ET Street |
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 | Roll over image to zoom in Shinko Hook-Up Drag Rear Tire |
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 | Mickey Thompson street legal drag radial |
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 | Mickey Thompson Radial P275 |
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 | Mickey Thompson Pro Drag |
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Best Drag Radial For Street | 2024 Products Overview
1. Mickey Thompson ET Street Racing Radial
The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial is a high-performance tire designed for street and strip use. It features a durable construction with a proven polyester-ply, steel belted, tubeless radial design for excellent ride control on the street. The tire’s R2 compound ensures quick and consistent traction at the strip, requiring minimal burnout.
With a minimal tread void for dry traction and hydroplane resistance, it comes in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters. Ideal for heads-up/class racing and recommended for auto-trans applications, this tire is not suitable for dyno use.
Product Overview:
The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a high-performance tire designed for use on the street and at the drag strip. It is made with a polyester-ply, steel-belted construction that provides strength and durability, as well as excellent ride control.
The tire’s R2 compound offers quick and consistent traction at the strip with minimal burnout required. It also features a minimal tread void for excellent dry traction, which is strategically placed to aid in hydroplane resistance.
This tire is available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters and is approved for use on the street by the D.O.T. (Department of Transportation). It is particularly well-suited for use in heads-up and class racing and works best with automatic transmission applications. It is not recommended for use on a dyno.
- Provides excellent traction at the drag strip.
- Offers quick and consistent traction with minimal burnout required.
- Features a minimal tread void for excellent dry traction.
- Has a durable polyester-ply, steel-belted construction.
- Comes in a range of sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheels.
- Not suitable for use on a dyno.
- May not offer the same level of wet traction as a tire with a more aggressive tread pattern.
- Not recommended for use in heavy rain or on wet roads.
2. Shinko Hook-Up Drag Rear Radial
The Shinko Hook-Up Drag Radial is a recently launched tire designed for the ultimate performance in drag racing. Featuring a new lightweight carcass, it boasts the softest compound ever offered by Shinko, ensuring optimal traction on the track. The tread pattern and profile are specifically crafted to meet the rigorous demands of drag racing, making it a top choice for enthusiasts.
With aramid belting and DOT approval, it adheres to safety standards while excelling in drag race conditions. This tire is recommended exclusively for drag race use due to its specialized design.
Product Overview:
The Shinko Hook-Up Drag Rear Tire is a high-performance tire designed specifically for use in drag racing. It features a new lightweight carcass, made from the softest compound available from Shinko, which helps to provide maximum grip and traction on the track.
The tread pattern and profile of the tire have been optimized for drag racing, with an aramid belted design that is both DOT-approved and recommended for drag race use only. This tire is available in a 180/55ZR17 size and has a load rating of 73 and a speed rating of W. It is recommended to be used in the rear position and can be paired with the Shinko 003 Stealth front tire for a matching tread pattern.
It is important to note that this tire is intended for use in the United States and Canada only, and it is recommended to verify all data with a tire professional or the vehicle's placard and owner's manual.
- Designed specifically for drag racing.
- Made from a soft compound for maximum grip.
- Lightweight carcass.
- Aramid belted and DOT approved.
- Can be paired with a matching front tire.
- Only recommended for drag race use.
- Data should be verified by a tire professional.
- Only intended for use in the United States and Canada.
3. Mickey Thompson Street legal drag radial
The product is the Mickey Thompson 90000031236 ET Street R, a drag radial tire made in the USA. Measuring 12 × 12 × 11 inches and weighing 36.8 pounds, it comes in a pack of 1 and is DOT-certified for safe street use. Experts have tested and praised its reliability and performance. The tire utilizes proven race compounds for enhanced traction and even pressure distribution on the tread.
Featuring large and solid center ribs, it ensures continuous and excellent contact patches on tracks. The increased sidewall construction contributes to stability, providing an enjoyable driving experience. Mickey Thompson is known for producing high-quality products, making this tire a worthy investment for perfect rides.
Product Overview:
The Mickey Thompson Street drag radial is a high-performance tire that has been designed and developed for use in drag racing events. This tire has been constructed using proven race compounds, which provide excellent traction and grip on the track, ensuring that you get the best possible performance from your vehicle.
One of the standout features of Mickey Thompson Street drag radial is its large and solid center ribs, which provide continuous and excellent contact patches on the track, helping to improve stability and handling. In addition, the tire has been designed with an increased sidewall construction, which helps to improve stability and provide a more enjoyable driving experience.
This tire is DOT-certified, which means that it is safe for use on public roads and has been thoroughly tested to ensure that it meets the highest safety standards. It is also made in the USA, so you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality product that has been built to last.
- Proven race compounds for excellent traction and grip on the track.
- Large and solid center ribs for continuous contact patches and improved stability.
- Increased sidewall construction for improved stability and a more enjoyable driving experience.
- DOT-certified for use on public roads.
- Made in the USA for high quality and durability.
- May not be suitable for use on wet or slippery surfaces.
- May have a shorter tread life compared to some other tire models.
4. Mickey Thompson Radial P275
The product is a high-performance tire with a proven polyester-ply, steel-belted, tubeless radial construction, ensuring strength and durability for optimal ride control on the street. It features a proven R2 compound that delivers quick and consistent traction at the strip, requiring minimal burnout. The tire's design incorporates minimal tread void to enhance dry traction while strategically placed for hydroplane resistance.
With 18 popular sizes available for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters, it offers versatility for various vehicles. It's important to note that the tire is not recommended for use on a dyno. The summary highlights its key attributes, including construction, traction capabilities, tread design, size options, and a cautionary note about dyno usage.
Product Overview:
The Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is a high-performance tire designed for use on the street and at the strip. It features a proven polyester-ply, steel belted, tubeless radial construction, which provides strength and durability for excellent ride control.
The tire is made with a proven R2 compound, which provides quick and consistent traction at the strip with little burnout required. It has a minimal tread void for excellent dry traction, which is strategically placed to aid in hydroplane resistance.
The tire is available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters. It should not be used on a dyno. Overall, the Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S Racing Radial Tire is an ideal choice for drivers who want a high-performance tire that can deliver strong traction and handle on the street and at the strip.
- Quick and consistent traction at the strip.
- Minimal tread void for excellent dry traction.
- Strategically placed to aid in hydroplane resistance.
- Available in 18 popular sizes for 15- to 20-inch wheel diameters.
- May not offer the same level of traction in wet conditions as some other tire types.
- May have a shorter lifespan than some other tire types due to the high-performance nature of the compound.
5. Mickey Thompson Pro Drag Radial
The product is a set of Mickey Thompson wheels with a unique design, featuring a flat back with a tough satin clear coat and a machined outer lip for a rugged appearance. These wheels are designed to offer maximum caliper clearance and are TPMS sensor-friendly, making them suitable for late-model trucks and SUVs.
With a high offset, they come in sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches in diameter and include a center cap. Specifically highlighted is the Mickey Thompson Pro model, sized 29.5/9.0R15, known for its distinct body design and praised for providing faster drives due to its radial design, minimizing rolling resistance. The positive user experiences and expert testimonials contribute to the product's credibility in the market.
Product Overview:
The Mickey Thompson Pro Drag Rad Racing Radial Tire is a high-performance tire that is specifically designed for drag racing. It has a unique tread pattern and is constructed with durable materials that are capable of handling the extreme speeds and forces that are typically experienced during drag racing events.
One of the standout features of this tire is its flat-back design, which helps to reduce rolling resistance and improve traction. Additionally, the tire has a tough satin clear coat finish and a machined outer lip that gives it a rugged, aggressive appearance.
In terms of performance, the Mickey Thompson Pro Drag Rad Racing Radial Tire is designed to provide maximum caliper clearance and is compatible with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). This is particularly useful for modern trucks and SUVs that are equipped with these sensors. The tire also has a high offset, which makes it ideal for use on late-model trucks and SUVs. It is available in a size of 33.0/14.5R15 and comes with a center cap that measures between 16" and 22" in diameter.
- Designed specifically for drag racing.
- Reduced rolling resistance and improved traction.
- Tough satin clear coat finish.
- Maximum caliper clearance and TPMS compatibility.
- High offset for use on late-model trucks and SUVs.
- May not be suitable for everyday use.
- May have a shorter lifespan compared to regular tires.
- May have a higher cost compared to regular tires.
How To Choose Best Drag Radial For Street | Ultimate Guide 2024
Due to the oversaturation of the market, it is not easy to choose the best drag radial for the road from the various models on the market. But should we choose any option to be satisfied?
No, we need to inform ourselves on how to make a decision so that we don't regret it later. Below are the factors that potential buyers should consider to make the right decision when buying these items.
DOT Classification
As with other products for sale, manufacturers must adhere to strict regulations. Likewise, manufacturers of drag radials must produce these tires in accordance with strict DOT regulations.
The authorities have set strict guidelines to ensure that manufacturers create drag radials with superior traction. This ensures maximum safety for the users while driving on the road.
Currently, there are both DOT and non-DOT-certified tires on the market. In addition to the safety aspects, tires with the DOT mark or stamp are proof of approved strength and durability.
If you really need something that will give you the best experience, be sure to check out this certification. Otherwise, some states do not allow the use of unapproved drag radials on roads and tracks.
Weight
Here is another excellent aspect that drag radial buyers should consider when choosing the best road tires for drag racing models. Weight is a crucial factor in the overall strength of a drag radial.
Usually, there is a recommended weight that drag radials should feature to ensure their excellence on the road. However, because they are 10% lighter than regular tires, there is no need to test them to determine their effectiveness.
Keep in mind that you won't just be driving on smooth surfaces, but that there are potholes to negotiate. In this case, you need a bike with a much higher load capacity to successfully negotiate the curbs.
Radial tires designed for towing only are usually tested to SFI standards because DOT regulations are more stringent. As a buyer, make sure you choose radial tires that have a good weight rating to give you the best experience.
Read the sidewall
Sometimes you may come across a particular shop that only sells drag radials with DOT regulations and not road tires. However, that doesn't mean they are perfect and can serve your needs.
Depending on the intended use, there are several features and specifications to consider. For example, with road and racing tires, you should check the sidewall construction before buying a radial tire.
The best road dragster tires have strong sidewalls for excellent handling and cornering. Most people choose flexible options because they offer excellent traction on the road.
However, flexible variants are not perfect models because they do not bend well. Consider drag radials with improved sidewall structure for a perfect ride everywhere.
Air pressure
We all need perfect drag radials with excellent performance on the street and highway. In addition to the design and overall performance of a drag radial, pressure is also important.
The pressure of a drag radial determines its performance and overall durability. Insufficient pressure can reduce the life of drag radial tires by up to 50%. Manufacturers recommend that customers maintain a standard pressure setting to keep their trailing radial tires in perfect condition longer.
Typically, the pressure limit set for smaller options is between 11 and 14 psi. Larger traction radial tires need 12 to 16 psi of pressure to operate efficiently. Otherwise, under a pressure setting of 11 psi, your towable radial will last the shortest amount of time.
Warranty
In addition to the above factors, the warranty aspect is also important when choosing the best radial tyre for everyday driving. Warranties are usually a determining factor in the quality of a product.
To differentiate themselves from their peers, manufacturers provide different warranty periods for their products. Some provide only a one-month warranty, while others have a lifetime warranty.
Pay attention to this aspect when buying drag radial tires as it speaks volumes about the quality of the construction. Try to choose the longest warranty as it is a sign of quality workmanship. With this consideration, you will be in the best position if you have problems with your radial tires.
Compounds
When designing drag radials, manufacturers take into account the requirements of drag racing. All compounds used in their construction must meet the requirements for the best drag radials on the highway or road.
Manufacturers usually design drag radials from a special soft racing compound that guarantees adaptation to lightweight vehicles. But what's the problem?
Only the toughest drag radials are the ideal choice for the road. Harder drag radials also contribute to the overall durability and cost.
In these cases, it is important to consider the special compounds used to produce the desired models. Otherwise, the softer compounds are not ideal for roads and highways.
Budget
Last but not least, we cannot forget the cost aspect, which is a key consideration when buying any product. Before entering the market, buyers should keep in mind the minimum amount they want to spend. However, one should always be prepared for minor adjustments to the set budget.
The lifespan of drag radial
As with other items, the life of traction radial tires depends on several factors. In particular, the service life of trailing radial tires depends on their maintenance, location, and use. In addition, the life of drag radials also depends on the vehicle and the average burnout of the radial.
The design of drag radials incorporates softer compounds to achieve superior performance, but this reduces their durability. Manufacturers usually recommend using these items on dry roads, however, advanced options can work perfectly anywhere. However, what is the average lifespan of these items?
On average, these items can last up to 3,000 miles if used twice. However, with proper maintenance, they can go up to 5,000 miles before they need to be replaced. Signs of wear on drag radials include tread grooves that disappear like a tire burst.
However, this largely depends on the type of operation of the radials and their maintenance. Be sure to clean the surface of all debris before storage to prevent build-up. In addition, regular inspections can extend the overall life of radial tires.
Is storing drag radials effectively
We need our drag radials to give us the best experience for a long time. Achieving this goal is not easy and we can only succeed if we preserve them in the best possible way. Maintaining drag radial tires starts with storing them efficiently in the most appropriate locations. But where to store these items and how to do it?
The manufacturers of traction radial tires recommend storing these items in a cool, dry place after use. This means a room with a surface temperature between 50 and 90 degrees F. This temperature prevents any buildup that could damage the radial.
In addition, it is possible to find bags large enough to store the trailing radials. However, you must check them regularly to make sure they are in proper condition. Also, always make sure to store towable radials out of direct sunlight.
But that's not all there is to proper storage of drag radials. Before storing these items, be sure to blow them out and prevent them from freezing. However, drag radials must remain dry and never come into contact with solvents that could damage the rubber.
FAQs
Can You Use Drag Radials On The Street?
Drag radials are a type of tire that is designed specifically for use on the drag strip. They are typically made of a soft compound that provides maximum traction and grip, which is ideal for high-speed acceleration and braking on the drag strip.
Drag radials are not recommended for everyday street use because they wear quickly and do not provide the same level of handling and stability as regular street tires. They are also not designed for wet or slippery conditions and may not provide the same level of traction as regular street tires in those conditions.
If you want to use your car for both street driving and occasional trips to the drag strip, you may want to consider using two sets of tires: one set of regular street tires for everyday driving, and another set of drag radials for the drag strip. This will allow you to get the best performance out of both types of tires, while also extending the life of your tires by using them for their intended purpose.
What Is A Good 60 Ft In Drag Racing?
In drag racing, the 60-foot time is the time it takes a car to cover the first 60 feet of the track. A good 60-foot time will depend on the specific performance characteristics of the car and the conditions of the track.
In general, a good 60-foot time for a front-wheel drive car is in the 1.7-second range, while a good 60-foot time for a rear-wheel drive car is in the 1.6-second range. These times can vary depending on the power and weight of the car, as well as the traction and surface of the track.
To achieve a good 60-foot time, it's important to get a good launch off the starting line. This involves finding the right balance of tire spin and traction to maximize acceleration. Factors that can affect the 60-foot time include the tire compound, the tire pressure, the suspension setup, and the driver's launch technique.
Are Drag Radials Faster Than Slicks?
Drag radials and slicks are both types of tires that are designed for use in drag racing. Slicks are tires with no tread pattern, which allows them to provide maximum traction and grip on the track. Drag radials are tires with a tread pattern that is designed to provide a balance of traction and stability on the track.
In general, slicks are faster than drag radials in drag racing because they provide more traction and grip, which allows the car to accelerate more quickly. Slicks are also able to maintain their traction at higher speeds, which makes them faster down the track.
However, slicks are not suitable for everyday street use because they have no tread pattern and do not provide the same level of handling and stability as regular street tires. Drag radials, on the other hand, are designed to be used on both the street and the drag strip, and provide a balance of traction and stability for both environments.
Overall, it's important to choose the right tire for the specific conditions and requirements of the track. Slicks are generally the fastest option for drag racing, but drag radials may be a better choice if you need a tire that is suitable for both the street and the track.
Do You Do A Burnout With Drag Radials?
Burnout is a technique that involves spinning the tires of a car while stationary, or while moving very slowly, to heat up the tires and clean debris off the tread. Burnouts are often performed before a drag race to help prepare the tires for maximum traction and grip on the track.
Whether or not you should do a burnout with drag radials will depend on the specific characteristics of the tires and the conditions of the track. Some drag radial tires are designed to be used for burnouts, while others are not.
In general, it's a good idea to consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the tires you are using. Some drag radial tires may be prone to overheating or damage if they are subjected to excessive tire spin, while others may be able to handle burnouts without any issues.
It's also important to consider the conditions of the track when deciding whether to do a burnout. If the track surface is wet or slippery, burnout may not be necessary or advisable. In these conditions, it's important to focus on getting a good, controlled launch off the starting line rather than trying to generate maximum tire spin.
Do Radials Last Longer Than Bias?
Radial tires and bias tires are two different types of tires that are designed for use on vehicles. Radial tires have a structure that consists of cords that run across the tread at a 90-degree angle to the direction of travel, while bias tires have a structure that consists of cords that run diagonally across the tread.
In general, radial tires tend to last longer than bias tires because they have a more durable construction and a more even distribution of stress on the tread. Radial tires also tend to have a lower rolling resistance, which means they require less energy to maintain their speed and can result in better fuel efficiency.
However, the lifespan of a tire can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle it is used on, the type of driving it is subjected to, and the tire's inflation pressure. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for tire pressure and to rotate your tires regularly to help extend their lifespan.
Can You Drift With Drag Radials?
Drifting is a driving technique that involves intentionally oversteering and causing a car to lose traction and slide sideways. It is often performed for sports or entertainment purposes and can be dangerous if not done properly.
Drag radials are a type of tire that is designed specifically for use in drag racing. They are typically made of a soft compound that provides maximum traction and grip, which is ideal for high-speed acceleration and braking on the drag strip.
While it is possible to drift with drag radials, they are not necessarily the best choice for drifting because they are not designed for this type of driving. Drag radials are not as durable as other types of tires and may wear out more quickly if subjected to excessive tire spin and sliding.
Additionally, drag radials are not designed for the high lateral forces that are involved in drifting, and may not provide the same level of stability and control as other types of tires. If you are interested in drifting, it may be better to choose a tire that is specifically designed for this type of driving, such as a performance tire or a dedicated drift tire.
What Psi Should I Run Off Road?
The ideal tire pressure for off-road driving will depend on the specific characteristics of your vehicle and the terrain you will be driving on. In general, you should aim for a tire pressure that is lower than what you would use for on-road driving, as lower tire pressure can help to increase the tire's contact patch and improve traction on soft or uneven terrain.
However, it's important not to go too low with the tire pressure, as this can cause the tire to lose stability and wear out more quickly. It's also important to consider the load that the tires will be carrying, as a higher load may require a higher tire pressure to support it.
As a general guideline, you may want to start with a tire pressure that is around 5-10 psi lower than the manufacturer's recommended pressure for on-road driving. You can then adjust the tire pressure up or down based on your specific needs and the conditions of the terrain.
It's also a good idea to carry a reliable tire pressure gauge and a portable air compressor with you when driving off-road, so you can adjust the tire pressure as needed on the fly.
Can Drag Radials Be Used On The Road?
Drag radials are an interesting option for drivers who own street cars and occasionally take a ride on the local circuit. They are also interesting for anyone who uses high performance on a touring car and is looking for the advantage of straight-line traction that is often difficult to find with traditional radial tires.
How Long Do Drag Radials Last On The Road?
Dragster owners believe they can get 15,000 to 30,000 miles on their street dragster radial tires. Street radial tires are constructed differently than regular tires. They have slightly narrower sidewall widths and thinner treads. This allows them to reach higher speeds while maintaining a smooth ride.
When did Trailing Radials Need To Be Replaced?
When the 60's start to drop, it's usually time to replace the tires. This occurs between 90 and 120 runs. Even if the wear indicators show the tire is still good, I'll replace it. Consistency is important in stage racing.
Conclusion
Many manufacturers have entered the market, producing different models of drag radials and fighting for a place in this industry. The choice of drag radials should not be rushed and then regretted. You need to do some research and spend some time choosing the perfect model that provides the best service.
However, with our detailed review of drag radials for the streets, potential buyers can make their choice without any hassle. In our review, you will learn about the best street drag radials on the market.
They represent the perfect options that buyers should consider when they want to choose these products. In addition, the buying guide will give you advice on how to make the smartest decision and choose the best. Read our review and enjoy the selection process.
Hi, I am David Bailey a dedicated writer from Linden Bridge School with a degree in mechanical engineering and a degree in marketing. I strive to simplify complex subjects and like to explain complex and technical matters in an easy-to-understand manner. Read More Here
