If you’re looking for a high-performance summer tire that doesn’t compromise on safety, the Bridgestone Potenza S007A RFT is a top contender. This review covers everything you need to know about this run-flat tire’s capabilities. The Bridgestone Potenza S007A RFT review reveals a tire built for drivers who want sharp handling with the added peace of mind of run-flat technology.
Bridgestone Potenza S007A RFT
This tire sits at the intersection of serious performance and practical safety. It’s designed primarily for sports cars, coupes, and high-powered sedans. The RFT stands for Run-Flat Technology, meaning you can keep driving for a limited distance even after a complete loss of air pressure.
Key Features and Technology
Bridgestone packed the S007A RFT with innovations aimed at the enthusiast driver. The goal is to deliver a thrilling drive without ever leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
- Run-Flat Technology (RFT): The core feature. Reinforced sidewalls allow the tire to support the vehicle’s weight for up to 50 miles at 50 mph after a puncture.
- Potenza Performance Tread Compound: A special silica-enhanced compound provides strong grip on both dry and wet roads. It’s designed to stay sticky as temperatures rise.
- Asymmetric Tread Pattern: The outer shoulder has large, rigid blocks for cornering stability. The inner tread features more grooves to channel water away and resist aquaplaning.
- Continuous Center Rib: This improves straight-line stability and steering response, making the tire feel precise and connected.
Performance on Dry Roads
Where this tire truly shines is on dry pavement. The immediate feeling is one of confidence and control. The steering response is very direct, with minimal lag between your input and the tire’s reaction.
Cornering grip is impressive. The tire holds its line tenaciously, allowing for higher cornering speeds. You get good feedback through the steering wheel, so you can sense the limit of adhesion. The rigid tread blocks resist the squirming that some tires exhibit under hard lateral forces.
Performance on Wet Roads
While a summer tire, the S007A RFT handles wet conditions competently. The asymmetric pattern’s numerous grooves are effective at evacuating water from the contact patch.
- Braking distances in the wet are generally short and consistent.
- Resistance to aquaplaning is good for a performance tire, providing stability in heavy rain.
- The grip level in cool, wet conditions is still high, though naturally not as strong as in the dry.
It’s important to remember this is not an all-season tire. Performance will drop significantly in near-freezing temperatures, and it is not suitable for snow or ice.
Comfort and Noise Levels
This is often the trade-off with run-flat tires. The reinforced sidewalls can make the ride firmer than a standard performance tire. You will feel more of the road’s imperfections, like small cracks and tar strips.
Road noise is present, especially on coarse asphalt surfaces. At highway speeds, a noticeable hum is common. It’s not overwhelming for a performance tire, but it’s not a quiet luxury touring experience either. The stiffer construction is a direct result of the run-flat capability.
Durability and Tread Life
Performance summer tires typically have shorter tread life, and the S007A RFT is no exception. The soft, grippy compound wears faster than a grand-touring or all-season tire. Expect a lower mileage warranty—often in the 20,000-30,000 mile range, depending on your driving style.
The durability of the run-flat structure itself is robust. The sidewalls are tough and resistant to damage from potholes or curb impacts, though extreme impacts can still cause damage. Regular rotations and alignments are crucial to maximize its lifespan.
Who Is This Tire Best For?
The ideal driver for this tire values performance but has a zero-tolerance policy for being stranded. It’s perfect for:
- Owners of performance vehicles who want run-flat safety without a spare tire.
- Drivers in regions with warm climates and minimal snow.
- Anyone who prioritizes sharp handling and is accepting of a firmer ride.
- People who want the convienience of being able to drive to a safe location after a flat.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
No tire is perfect for everyone. Here are the main compromises with the S007A RFT:
- Firmer Ride Quality: The run-flat sidewalls transmit more road shock.
- Higher Cost: Run-flat tires are generally more expensive to purchase.
- Limited Run-Flat Distance/Speed: You must adhere to the 50mi/50mph limits after a puncture.
- Not for Cold Climates: It must be swapped for winter tires in freezing weather.
Comparing to Non-Run-Flat Potenzas
Bridgestone makes a standard Potenza S007A without run-flat tech. The performance between the two is very close in dry and wet handling. The key differences are:
- The standard version will have a slightly more compliant ride.
- The standard version may be a touch quieter.
- The RFT version provides the obvious safety benefit.
- The non-RFT version requires a spare tire or inflation kit in your vehicle.
Your choice boils down to how much you value the run-flat feature versus a marginal gain in comfort.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper care is essential to get the most from these tires. Follow these steps for best results.
- Professional Installation: Always have run-flat tires installed by a shop experienced with them. The stiff sidewalls require specific equipment.
- Use a TPMS: A working Tire Pressure Monitoring System is critical. You may not feel a puncture in a run-flat, so the TPMS is your early warning.
- Check Pressure Monthly: Maintain the exact pressure recommended by your vehicle’s door placard. Underinflation can damage the run-flat structure.
- Rotate Regularly: Rotate every 5,000-7,000 miles to promote even wear, which is especially important for performance tires.
- Annual Alignment: Get an alignment check once a year to prevent premature or uneven wear from misalignment.
Final Verdict
The Bridgestone Potenza S007A RFT successfully delivers on its promise of high performance with built-in safety. It offers excelent dry grip, confident wet handling, and the crucial ability to drive on after a puncture. The compromises come in the form of ride comfort, noise, and tread life—typical for this category.
If your priority is a thrilling drive with out the worry of a roadside tire change, this tire is an outstanding choice. It brings genuine Potenza performance to drivers who aren’t willing to sacrifice practical safety for every last ounce of comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far can I drive on the Bridgestone Potenza S007A RFT after a puncture?
You can drive up to 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph after a complete loss of air pressure. This is intended to get you to a safe location or repair shop.
Is the Bridgestone Potenza run-flat tire good in snow?
No. The Potenza S007A RFT is a summer tire. Its compound hardens in cold temperatures, drastically reducing grip. It is unsafe for snow and ice and should be replaced with winter tires in freezing conditions.
Can I repair a punctured Potenza S007A RFT tire?
Sometimes, but it depends on the damage. Repairs must be done by a professional who follows Bridgestone’s and the Rubber Manufacturers Association’s guidelines for repairing run-flat tires. Damage to the sidewall usually cannot be repaired.
Do I need special wheels for these run-flat tires?
Not necessarily. They can mount on standard wheels, but the wheels must be in good condition. Its recommended to check with your tire professional to ensure compatibility.
What’s the difference between the S007A RFT and the older S001 RFT?
The S007A is the newer generation. It typically offers improved wet braking, slightly better tread life, and refined handling characteristics over the S001 model. The overall concept and run-flat technology remain similar.
Are Bridgestone Potenza tires noisy?
As a performance-oriented tire with a run-flat construction, the S007A RFT generates more road noise than a grand-touring tire. You will hear a noticeable hum on some road surfaces, which is a trade-off for the stiffer sidewalls and high grip.