If you’re searching for a max performance tire that delivers on the track and the street, your search often ends here. This Bridgestone Potenza S007 review covers everything you need to know about this serious performance tire.
Bridgestone Potenza S007 Review
The Bridgestone Potenza S007 sits at the top of the brand’s summer tire lineup. It’s designed for sports cars, coupes, and high-performance sedans. Drivers choose it for its sharp handling and strong grip in dry conditions.
It’s the successor to the well-regarded Potenza S-04 Pole Position. Bridgestone aimed to improve on an already excellent tire. Let’s see how it stacks up.
Key Features and Technology
Bridgestone packed the S007 with tech to maximize contact with the road. The goal was predictable performance at the limit.
- UNI-T AQII Technology: This is Bridgestone’s adaptive compound. It adjusts to temperature changes for consistent grip whether it’s cool or hot outside.
- Optimized Tread Pattern: The asymmetric design has a large outer shoulder block. This increases rigidity for better cornering stability and feedback through the steering wheel.
- Wide Center Rib: This feature improves straight-line stability and braking performance. It gives you confidence under hard deceleration.
- Multi-Cell Compound: Tiny pores in the tread help absorb thin films of water. This enhances wet weather traction, which is crucial for a summer tire.
Dry Performance and Handling
This is where the Potenza S007 truly shines. The tire communicates with the driver in a clear, confidence-inspiring way.
The turn-in response is immediate. There’s very little slack or sidewall flex. You point the wheel, and the car changes direction. The level of grip in dry corners is impressive, allowing for high cornering speeds.
Feedback through the steering wheel is detailed. You can feel the texture of the pavement and sense when the tire is approaching its limit. This allows you to push hard while still feeling in control.
Track Day Readiness
Many owners use the S007 for occasional track days. It handles the heat and stress reasonably well for a street tire. The compound resists getting greasy after several hot laps.
Just remember, it’s not a full racing slick. For best results, you should increase your tire pressures slightly on track. Always let them cool down between sessions.
Wet Weather Capability
For a max performance summer tire, the S007 handles rain respectably. The tread channels evacuate water effectively to prevent hydroplaning.
- Wet braking distances are short and stable.
- Cornering grip in the rain is good, though naturally reduced from dry levels.
- The tire remains predictable, so you won’t be caught by surprise.
However, it is not a all-season or rain tire. Standing water and deep puddles should be taken cautiously. And remember, summer tires lose grip in cold temperatures, below about 45°F (7°C).
Comfort and Noise Levels
This is a performance-first tire. Comfort is a secondary consideration, but it’s not unbearable.
Road noise is present, especially on coarse asphalt surfaces. You’ll hear a noticeable hum compared to a grand-touring tire. The ride is firm, transmitting more road imperfections into the cabin.
That’s the trade-off for such sharp handling. If your priority is a plush, quiet ride, you might want to look elsewhere. But if performance is king, you’ll likely accept these compromises.
Treadwear and Longevity
The S007 has a 280 treadwear rating. This is fairly standard for the ultra-high performance category. You can expect a reasonable lifespan if you drive normally on the street.
Aggressive driving, track use, and poor alignment will shorten its life significantly. Regular rotations and proper inflation are key to getting the most miles out of them. Most drivers report getting between 20,000 to 30,000 miles from a set.
Installation and Break-In Tips
Getting the most from your new tires starts with proper installation. Follow these steps for the best results.
- Always install tires in matched sets (at least both axles). This maintains balanced handling.
- Have a professional perform a wheel alignment after installation. This prevents uneven wear from the start.
- Inflate to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended PSI, found on your door jamb sticker. Don’t rely on the tire’s sidewall max pressure.
- Break in the tires gently for the first 100 miles. Avoid hard acceleration, braking, and cornering. This allows the release lubricant to wear off and the compound to settle.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
The Potenza S007 faces stiff competition. Here’s a quick comparison.
- vs. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S: The Michelin is often considered the benchmark. It offers similar dry grip with better wet performance and slightly more comfort. The S007 can be a more budget-friendly alternative with a sharper steering feel.
- vs. Continental ExtremeContact Sport: The Continental is another top contender. It’s known for excellent wet grip and long treadlife. The S007 often feels a bit more responsive and direct in dry cornering.
- vs. Pirelli P Zero (PZ4): The Pirelli focuses on sporty character. The S007 generally provides more consistent feedback and predictable behavior at the limit, which some drivers prefer.
Who Is The Potenza S007 Best For?
This tire isn’t for everyone. It’s a specialized tool for a specific type of driver.
You’ll love the S007 if:
- You prioritize sharp, communicative handling above all else.
- You enjoy spirited driving on twisty roads or occasional track days.
- You drive a sports car, hot hatch, or performance sedan.
- You live in a region with mostly warm, dry weather.
You might want to skip it if:
- Your primary concern is a quiet, comfortable ride.
- You face cold winters or need a true all-season tire.
- You want the absolute maximum wet-weather safety.
- Treadwear longevity is your number one goal.
Final Verdict
The Bridgestone Potenza S007 is a serious performance tire that delivers exceptional dry grip and razor-sharp handling. It provides the feedback enthusiast drivers crave from behind the wheel.
While it makes some compromises in comfort and noise, these are acceptable trade-offs for its level of precision. It stands as a strong choice among top-tier max performance summer tires, especially for those who value driver engagement and predictable limits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Bridgestone Potenza S007 good in snow?
No, it is not good in snow. The Potenza S007 is a summer-only tire. Its compound hardens in freezing temperatures, providing almost no grip in snow or ice. Using it in winter conditions is dangerous. You must switch to winter or all-season tires when temperatures drop.
How does the S007 compare to the older S-04?
The S007 is a direct upgrade. It offers better wet weather performance and improved treadlife over the S-04 Pole Position. The dry handling character is similar—very responsive and direct—but with a slightly refined feel.
Can I use the Potenza S007 for daily driving?
Yes, you can use it for daily driving if you live in a suitable climate. The ride will be firmer and noisier than a standard tire, but it’s perfectly manageable. Just be mindful of its limitations in cold and wet weather.
What is the treadwear warranty on the S007?
Bridgestone offers a limited treadwear warranty on the Potenza S007. The specific mileage can vary, so you should check with your tire dealer for the exact warranty details at the time of purchase. It’s typically in line with other performance tires.
Does the S007 run true to size?
Generally, yes. The sizing is accurate compared to other brands. As with any performance tire, it’s a good idea to check fitment guides for your specific vehicle, especially if you have aftermarket wheels with tight clearance.