Falken
Drift origins with accessible performance
History & Overview
Falken was launched in 1983 in Japan as a high-performance tire brand under Ohtsu Rubber & Tire. The brand was created specifically to target younger, enthusiast-oriented consumers who wanted performance tires at more accessible price points than premium brands. In 2003, Ohtsu merged into Sumitomo Rubber Industries, making Falken a global strategic brand under one of Japan's largest tire manufacturers.
Falken quickly became associated with motorsport, particularly drifting. The brand was among the early sponsors of professional drifting, and their teal and turquoise livery became iconic in the drift community. Drivers like Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Dai Yoshihara brought Falken significant exposure through Formula Drift championships, cementing the brand's performance credentials.
Beyond drifting, Falken has expanded into multiple motorsport disciplines including the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, where the brand has achieved notable class victories. This endurance racing involvement has helped develop their touring and all-season lines. Today, Falken offers a comprehensive range from ultra-high-performance summer tires to all-terrain options, all benefiting from parent company Sumitomo's extensive R&D capabilities while maintaining competitive pricing.
For official specifications, visit Falken's official website.
Popular Tire Lines
Azenis FK510
Max Performance SummerFlagship performance tire featuring 4D Nano Design technology for optimized compound characteristics. Exceptional wet and dry grip balance. Available in 17"-21".
Azenis RT660
Extreme Performance SummerTrack-focused street tire with motorsport-derived construction. Features advanced silica compound for high-temperature performance. 200 treadwear rating. Available in 15"-20".
Azenis FK460 A/S
Ultra High Performance All-SeasonAll-season performance tire with Dynamic Range Technology for grip across temperatures. Balanced for year-round driving with sporting intentions. Available in 17"-20".
Sincera SN201
Standard Touring All-SeasonValue-oriented touring tire with respectable performance. Good wet traction and comfortable ride at competitive pricing. Available in 15"-18".
Wildpeak A/T3W
On/Off-Road All-TerrainVersatile all-terrain tire with 3PMSF severe snow rating. Heat diffuser technology in lower sidewall aids towing. 55,000-mile warranty. Available in 15"-22".
Wildpeak M/T
Maximum Traction Off-RoadAggressive mud-terrain tire with tough 3-ply sidewall construction. Optimized for serious off-road use while maintaining street manners. Available in 15"-22".
Price Range
Brand Highlights
- Launched in 1983 under Ohtsu Rubber & Tire, merged into Sumitomo Rubber Industries in 2003
- Iconic teal/turquoise livery became synonymous with professional drifting
- 4D Nano Design technology optimizes compound at molecular level
- Multiple class victories at 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race
- Wildpeak series provides serious off-road capability at accessible pricing
- Formula Drift championship partnerships with top drivers like Vaughn Gittin Jr.
Motorsport Heritage
Falken's teal and turquoise livery is iconic in drifting. The brand was an early Formula Drift sponsor and has backed championship-winning drivers like Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Dai Yoshihara. Their motorsport involvement extends beyond drifting to the grueling 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
Who Should Buy Falken?
Ideal For
- Drifters and Formula Drift fans wanting affordable performance
- Track day enthusiasts seeking excellent value-for-grip ratio
- Truck/SUV owners wanting Wildpeak's off-road capability at fair prices
- Budget-conscious performance enthusiasts
- Grassroots racers in autocross and time attack
Consider Alternatives If
- Those seeking ultimate dry grip (Michelin, Pirelli edge ahead)
- Luxury car owners wanting OEM-equivalent prestige
- Drivers prioritizing maximum tread life
- Snow country residents (limited dedicated winter options)
Falken vs Federal
Falken Azenis RT660 and Federal 595RS-RR compete for budget track tire supremacy. The RT660 offers better overall grip and more consistent performance across temperatures—it's the more 'complete' tire. Federal wears faster but has more predictable breakaway characteristics, making it preferred for drifting. RT660 is typically $20-40 more per tire but justifies the premium with better lap times and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Falken?
Falken is owned by Sumitomo Rubber Industries, one of Japan's largest tire manufacturers. Sumitomo also owns Dunlop in certain markets. This gives Falken access to significant R&D resources while maintaining its enthusiast-focused brand identity.
Is the Azenis RT660 good for track days?
Excellent. The RT660 is one of the best value track tires available—it offers ~90% of the grip of premium options like Michelin Cup 2 at 50-60% of the price. Expect 3-5 track days depending on driving style. It's the go-to choice for grassroots racers who want performance without breaking the bank.
Why is Falken so popular in drifting?
Falken was an early supporter of professional drifting, sponsoring Formula Drift and top drivers since the sport's early days. Their iconic teal livery became synonymous with drift culture. The tires themselves offer good grip at accessible prices, making them practical for a sport that destroys tires quickly.
Are Wildpeak tires actually good?
Yes, surprisingly so. The Wildpeak A/T3W is often overlooked compared to BFGoodrich KO2 but performs competitively at lower prices. It carries the 3PMSF severe snow rating and has good highway manners. For budget-conscious truck owners, it's an excellent choice.
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