The Civic Type R is equipped from the factory with high‑performance tires to match its track‑ready chassis. The 2023 FL5 comes with 19‑inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/30ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber; Honda says the redesigned wheel rim reduces distortion during hard cornering and helps the tires maintain a wider contact patch【10778404587618†L90-L97】. Older FK8 models used 20‑inch wheels with 245/30ZR20 tires, while the FD2/FN2 cars ran 18‑inch sizes, so the correct size depends on your generation.
When buying replacement tires, decide whether you’ll prioritize daily drivability or outright performance. Street‑focused options like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Continental ExtremeContact Sport provide excellent grip in dry and wet conditions. Track enthusiasts may prefer dedicated compounds such as Michelin Cup 2, Yokohama Advan A052, or Bridgestone Potenza RE‑71RS, which trade longevity and wet traction for maximum cornering grip. All‑season tires can work for cold climates but sacrifice the steering feel and responsiveness that define the Type R.
Always match the manufacturer’s load index and speed rating and check treadwear (UTQG) ratings to gauge longevity. Keep tire pressures within the recommended range, rotate them every 5,000 miles, and have the alignment checked to ensure even wear. Investing in quality tires is the simplest and most impactful upgrade for a Civic Type R, improving safety, handling, and lap times.