Nankang

Taiwan's track day favorite delivering grip on a budget

Est. 1959•Taiwan

History & Overview

Nankang Rubber Tire Corporation was founded in 1959 in Taiwan, becoming the country's first tire manufacturer. The company grew steadily by serving the domestic market and eventually expanded into exports, targeting budget-conscious consumers in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific markets.

Nankang gained cult status in the enthusiast community with their NS-2R tire, which offered semi-slick grip at a fraction of the cost of established performance tire brands. Track day enthusiasts and amateur racers discovered that Nankang tires could deliver impressive grip for autocross, time attack, and casual track use without the financial commitment of premium competition tires.

The brand doubled down on this reputation with the AR-1 (Adrenalin R1), a DOT-legal competition tire that became enormously popular in grassroots motorsport. While not matching the ultimate grip of Hoosiers or top-tier competition rubber, the AR-1's combination of performance and price made track days accessible to more drivers. Today, Nankang continues to serve both the budget commuter market and the enthusiast performance segment, with their track-focused products remaining a go-to choice for budget-minded driving enthusiasts.

For official specifications, visit Nankang's official website.

Popular Tire Lines

AR-1 (Adrenalin R1)

DOT Competition

DOT-legal competition tire for track and autocross use. Extremely soft compound delivers impressive grip at track temperatures. Very limited street longevity - best for dedicated competition/track day use. 100 treadwear rating. Available in 13"-18".

NS-2R

Extreme Performance Summer

Semi-slick street tire bridging performance and track use. Minimal tread pattern maximizes contact patch for dry grip. Popular for autocross and casual track days at accessible pricing. 120 treadwear rating. Available in 14"-20".

NS-25

Ultra High Performance Summer

Street performance tire with improved wet capability. Asymmetric tread pattern balances dry grip with rain evacuation. Good choice for spirited street driving with occasional wet conditions. Available in 17"-22".

NS-20

High Performance Summer

Mainstream performance tire offering good grip at budget pricing. Wide circumferential grooves reduce hydroplaning risk. Solid everyday performance tire at accessible price point. Available in 14"-20".

CR-S (Competition Race Semi-slick)

DOT Competition

Their newest track compound, designed specifically for time attack and grip events. Claims improved consistency over multiple heat cycles compared to AR-1. Available in 13"-18".

SP-9 Cross Sport

Performance All-Season

All-season tire for SUVs and crossovers. Designed for year-round use with acceptable handling characteristics. Budget option for daily drivers. Available in 17"-22".

Price Range

$250 - $700+PER SET

Brand Highlights

  • AR-1 and NS-2R are cult favorites in grassroots motorsport for track day value
  • Taiwan's first and largest tire manufacturer, established 1959
  • Budget track day accessibility - AR-1 typically half the price of premium competition tires
  • NS-2R offers semi-slick performance for street and autocross at entry-level pricing
  • DOT-legal competition tires available in wide size range including 13" for vintage/lightweight builds
  • Popular choice for drifting community seeking affordable tire consumption

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