Racepak G2X Data Analysis
For our track testing portion of the tire comparison test, we employed our usual protocol of attaching our Racepak G2X datalogging GPS system on the back of one of the bikes--in this case, the Kawasaki ZX-10R that Kunitsugu was riding--to measure the actual speed around Buttonwillow's 1.8-mile Race #23 circuit configuration with each set of tires. Although we listed the average lap times in the capsules, we've shown each tire's quickest lap here for comparative purposes on the graph.
With the time span from quickest to slowest tire reaching just more than one second, you'd think there would be more of a difference between graphs. However, even the quickest lap times didn't vary much more than 0.3 seconds from the average lap times listed with each capsule, and you'll notice that the top five are grouped very close together in that aspect. Thus, it's easy to see why the seven graphs (the Avon Viper Xtreme is shown here, since it was the Avon used on the ZX-10R) are very close overall. Where one or two tires may seem to eke out a small advantage over the others in one section, that gap is quickly made up (and often then some) in another section. There really is no standout tire as far as ultimate lap speed in this group.
This is why we urge you to read each capsule to get an idea of how each tire felt during those laps. Since there are no trophies for track days or rides down your favorite road, isn't it better to feel comfortable than to just turn the quickest lap time?