Maxxis VICTRA SPORT VS5 ZR 225/50 R18 95Y

Description

The Maxxis VICTRA SPORT VS5 ZR 225/50 R18 95Y is an Ultra High Performance (UHP) Summer tire designed for drivers who seek excellent grip and responsive handling in warm, dry, and wet conditions without the premium price tag of some top-tier brands. Maxxis, a Taiwanese company, is known for producing a wide range of tires, and the VS5 is their flagship performance offering.

Understanding the Tire Specifications: Maxxis VICTRA SPORT VS5 ZR 225/50 R18

• 225: The tire width is 225 millimeters.
• 50: The aspect ratio is 50, meaning the sidewall height is 50% of the width. This indicates a relatively low profile, which typically contributes to sharper steering response.
• ZR: This part of the designation signifies a Z-rated Radial tire, meaning it’s built for speeds over 240 km/h (149 mph). The “R” denotes Radial construction.
• 18: The rim diameter is 18 inches.
• 95Y: While your query stated “99W”, search results for 225/50ZR18 VS5 consistently show a Load Index of 95 and a Speed Rating of Y.
  • 95: The Load Index is 95, meaning each tire can carry a maximum load of 690 kg (1521 lbs).
  • Y: The Speed Rating is Y, indicating the tire is safely rated for speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph). This further emphasizes its UHP classification.
  • (Note: Some variations or different markets might have a “W” speed rating (270 km/h) or “XL” (Extra Load) for this size, so always double-check the exact markings on the tire itself.)

Key Features and Technology: Maxxis VICTRA SPORT VS5 ZR 225/50 R18 95Y

The Victra Sport VS5 incorporates several technologies aimed at delivering high performance:

• Advanced Full-Silica Tread Compound: This compound is crucial for the VS5’s performance. It’s engineered to provide exceptional wet grip and improved braking capabilities, while also aiming for a balanced performance in dry conditions.
• Innovative Tread Design with Variable Longitudinal Grooves: The tread pattern is optimized to effectively disperse water, significantly reducing the risk of aquaplaning and maintaining strong traction in wet weather.
• Latest Generation Nylon & Aramid Fabric Plies: The internal construction features high-strength materials in the undertread cap ply. This helps to reduce deformation at high speeds, enhancing stability and handling, and contributes to a lighter yet stronger tire.
• 3D Tread Blocks: These blocks are designed to minimize “roll-in” or deformation during strong braking maneuvers, contributing to shorter braking distances and increased stability.
• Newly Developed Sidewall: The sidewall construction is optimized for a balance of damping comfort (absorbing road imperfections) and low rolling resistance, which can contribute to better fuel efficiency.
• Rim Protection (MFS/FSL): Many sizes of the VS5, including this one, feature a rim protection lip (often indicated by “MFS” – Mit FelgenSchutz or “FSL” – Flankenschutzleiste on European labels), which helps shield the wheel rim from minor curb damage.

Performance Characteristics: Maxxis VICTRA SPORT VS5 ZR 225/50 R18 95Y

• Season: Summer tire. It is designed for optimal performance in warmer temperatures and should not be used in near-freezing conditions, snow, or ice.
• Dry Performance: Praised in reviews for strong dry grip, precise steering response, and confident handling at high speeds.
• Wet Performance: A significant highlight of the VS5. It consistently receives high ratings in independent tests for wet braking, wet handling, and aquaplaning resistance, often performing comparably to more expensive premium brands.
• Comfort & Noise: For an Ultra-High-Performance tire, reviews often note a surprisingly good balance of ride comfort and relatively low road noise, making it a viable option for daily driving.
• Value Proposition: The Maxxis VS5 is widely regarded as offering excellent performance for its price point, often being a more affordable alternative to top-tier UHP tires while delivering competitive results.