215/45ZR17 TYRE Nankang CRS

1. Product introduction

The Nankang CRS / CR-S tyre in size 215/45/17 is a high-performance semi-slick designed for intensive sporting use on circuits, trackdays, historic hillclimbs or competition driving. Not approved for road use, this tyre is aimed at drivers and enthusiasts seeking high grip, precise steering and effective handling under cornering load.

2. Part function

The tyre provides the direct link between the vehicle and the track. It transfers engine power, braking forces and lateral cornering loads to the ground. On a sporting or modified vehicle, a semi-slick such as the Nankang CR-S allows the chassis, brakes and suspension settings to be used to their full potential thanks to an optimised contact patch and a rigid carcass.

Its design combines two wide circumferential grooves on the inner section of the tread, a carefully developed sidewall angle and a rounded groove base to improve water evacuation and stability on damp surfaces. The outer section uses a pattern inspired by rally racing tyres to enhance grip and handling under heavy cornering loads.

3. Symptoms or consequences of a worn or faulty part

• Loss of grip under acceleration, braking or cornering.
• Longer braking distances, particularly when the compound is worn or overheated.
• Less precise front or rear running gear behaviour.
• Uneven wear that may indicate incorrect alignment, pressure or camber settings.
• Increased risk of aquaplaning when the grooves no longer allow water to drain properly.
• Reduced performance in circuit use after several substantial heat cycles.

4. Benefits of replacement

• Restores high levels of grip for sporting track use.
• Improves driving precision and running gear feedback.
• Optimises stability under cornering load through a rigid sidewall and a high-performance carcass.
• Helps dissipate heat through the micro-grooves in the intermediate tread section.
• Provides better traction and control under heavy braking.
• Suitable for sporting, modified or dedicated trackday vehicles.

5. Specifications

• Brand: Nankang
• Model: CRS / CR-S
• Type: Semi-slick
• Road approval: Not approved for road use
• Size: 215/45/17
• Load index: 91 XL
• Speed rating: Y
• Use: circuit, trackday, historic hillclimb, motorsport
• Inner tread: two wide circumferential grooves for water evacuation
• Outer tread: pattern inspired by rally racing tyres for grip under cornering load
• Structure: rigid sidewall with a reinforced fibre process for precise feedback
• Delivery: free

6. Vehicle compatibility

This Nankang CR-S 215/45/17 91Y XL tyre is compatible with vehicles accepting size 215/45 R17, subject to suitability for the wheels, wheel arch clearances, alignment and intended use. It is particularly suited to compact sporting vehicles, Renault Sport, Alpine and cars modified for circuit or competition use.

Before fitting, it is recommended to check the original or authorised tyre size, compatible wheel width, load index, speed rating and any constraints imposed by the relevant sporting regulations. As this model is not approved for road use, it must be used only in an appropriate setting away from roads open to public traffic.

7. Conclusion

The Nankang CRS / CR-S 215/45/17 91Y XL is a high-performance semi-slick for drivers seeking grip, precision and effectiveness on track, with a design intended to make full use of the potential of a sporting or modified vehicle.