Nankang AR-1 Tyre Pressures for Track Days
Track-focused semi-slick with strong consistency once up to temperature. It suits a lot of UK track-day and club racing cars, but it still needs proper pressure management.
Typical starting point: aim for around 28–30 PSI hot, then adjust from real hot readings taken immediately after a representative session.
Typical hot pressure window
For most track-day cars, Nankang AR-1 pressures normally end up somewhere around 28–30 psi hot. Lighter cars may work slightly lower, while heavier or road-based performance cars often need a little more support.
Cold starting pressure
Do not copy somebody else's cold pressure blindly. Start with the calculator, allow for ambient temperature, session length and car weight, then check the tyre as soon as you come in.
Signs the pressure is too high
- The car starts well but becomes skatey or greasy after several laps.
- The middle of the tyre works harder than the shoulders.
- Grip drops away even though the tyre still has plenty of tread.
Signs the pressure is too low
- The car feels lazy on turn-in.
- The shoulder rolls over excessively.
- The tyre overheats because it is moving around too much.
Recommended workflow
- Choose a target hot pressure.
- Set a sensible cold pressure before the session.
- Run 3–4 representative laps.
- Measure immediately in the paddock.
- Bleed or add air and record the result.
Quick reference
| Use case | Guide |
|---|---|
| Dry track day | 28–30 PSI hot |
| Wet or low grip | Often 1–2 PSI higher hot, depending on tyre and car |
| Heavy car | Watch shoulder wear and avoid running too low |
| FWD car | Fronts usually need checking first |