The Riken Raptor ZR A/S is Riken’s successful attempt at producing a low-cost all-season tire that can deliver a decent performance and fit the majority of smaller cars, like hatchbacks and sports coupes.
Since this tire isn’t that cheap compared to other budget-friendly tire models from other reputable manufacturers, you’re probably wondering whether its features justify the extra cash. Stick around with us as we evaluate whether the Riken Raptor ZR A/S is worthy of getting mounted to your car’s wheel rim at the expense of cheaper alternatives.
Riken Raptor ZR A/S Tires (Our Review)
Overall Assessment
The Riken Raptor ZR A/S features an arrow-shaped, unidirectional tread pattern that gives it enough grip on dry and wet terrain. The wide lateral grooves help the tire disperse water effectively, significantly reducing the risk of hydroplaning with a very short braking distance.
The Raptor ZR is quite responsive. You’ll be able to ace some very sharp turns confidently, and the tire won’t disappoint you with its rigid sidewalls. Even if you’re a driver who’s crazy about cornering, The Raptor ZR can handle it like a champ.
Being an all-season tire set, it’ll be on your car’s wheels for a significant portion of the year, especially if you live in an area where snowfall is less likely. Plus, Riken made sure you can get a lot of mileage out of the Raptor ZR A/S. That’s not to say you can’t use the Raptor in snow. In fact, it performs quite smoothly on shallow snow, but it doesn’t go beyond that.
It also has a built-in rim protector, preventing your car’s rims from getting damaged.
Furthermore, the wide high-strength steel belts, coupled with a two-ply polyester casing, provide the tire with the muscles it needs to enhance its durability.
Pros:
- Excellent traction on dry and wet roads
- Responsive steering and handling
- Can be used in light snow
- Reliable internal components for extra durability
- Built-in rim protector
Cons:
- Can’t be used in deep snow
- Produces some noise after a while
Vehicles That Can Use Riken Raptor ZR A/S
The Riken Raptor ZR A/S is perfect for small cars, including hatchbacks, sports coupes, and compact sedans. Here are some of the most popular car models that can use this tire:
- Volkswagen Golf
- Acura Integra
- Toyota Matrix
- Mazda 3
- Honda Prelude
- Chevrolet Camaro
- BMW M3
- Pontiac Trans Am
- Ford Focus
- Nissan Sentra
Sizes and Specs
| Size | Specs |
| 16 Inches | 205/40ZR16 83W XL B 205/45ZR16 87W XL B 205/50ZR16 91W XL B 215/55ZR16 93W BSW 225/50ZR16 92W BSW 225/55ZR16 95W BSW 245/50ZR16 97W BSW |
| 17 Inches | 205/45ZR17 88W XL B 205/50ZR17 89W BSW 215/40ZR17 87W XL B 215/45ZR17 91W XL B 215/50ZR17 91W BSW 225/45ZR17 91W BSW 225/50ZR17 94W BSW 235/45ZR17 97W XL B 235/50ZR17 96W BSW 235/55ZR17 99W BSW 245/45ZR17 95W BSW 255/40ZR17 94W BSW |
| 18 Inches | 215/35ZR18 84W XL B 225/40ZR18 92W XL B 235/40ZR18 95W XL B 245/40ZR18 93W BSW 245/45ZR18 96W BSW 275/35ZR18 95W BSW |
| 20 Inches | 245/35ZR20 91W BSW 255/35ZR20 93W BSW |
Prices
The Riken Raptor ZR A/S has a starting price of $85. The price goes up incrementally as you go for bigger models with better specs. You can also find some good deals if you know where to look.
Warranty
Riken provides a 50,000 miles warranty for the tread. Moreover, tire uniformity is covered until the first 2/32” of the tread has worn out.
Riken Raptor ZR A/S Tire Customer Review
Steve Bay says: “I’ve installed a set of the Raptor ZR A/S model for my Mazda a while back, and frankly speaking, these tires have held up pretty well over the past few months. I see myself buying a new set when this set wears out. Definitely recommended for anyone looking for a new set of affordable all-season tires.”
Steve Bay posted(4 / 5) review
Jessica M. says: “It literally rains all-year-round in my city, which makes driving with a set of tires that can’t handle a wet road a disaster. I’ve just got a new set of these for my Honda, and I can honestly say these tires are a lifesaver. I can finally travel for long distances without worrying about wet roads as these tires provide a solid grip on the road no matter what the weather conditions are. I’m never settling for less again!”
Jessica M. posted(5 / 5) review