Shop Ultra High Performance Tires at Best Prices + Free Shipping

Shop Ultra High Performance Tires at Best Prices + FREE SHIPPING

The main application of used ultra high performance tires is to keep the grip even at super high speeds. The speed rating of UPH tires is 149 mph or more. They are made for sports and all-wheel drive cars, some of which already leave the factory staffed by UPH tires with the status of original equipment. 

When ultra high performance tires are to be used? 

Another distinguishing feature of ultra high performance tires is that they are high-speed tires mostly used in summer. 

While winter versions of high performance tires exist, UHP is a quality high-speed tire that is used mostly in the summer season. Because speed-resistant rubber turns to stone even in very light frost.

You can find some UHP tire models marked “M+S” (mud and snow), meaning that they can be used in different weather conditions and even the occasional snowfall. However, such models are rather an exception. As a rule, UHP tires are not recommended for winter use, even those marked “M+S.” 

3 key characteristics of ultra high performance tires

To deliver top class performance in terms of handling, cornering and braking distance, UHP tires feature 3 key design characteristics. 

1. Low profile

UHP tires have a low profile, meaning that the sidewall of the tire is relatively shallow and designed to fit wheels of a larger diameter. This is typical of high-speed  tires and enlarges the contact patch - the area of tire in contact with the road - for superior performance at high speeds. Low profile tires also give a car a sporty look. 

2. Made from dense rubber compounds, often with added silica

While the exact composition of a UHP tire varies according to the manufacturer, the basis of any UHP tire is a hard rubber composite. Often, the tread compound includes added silica to enhance tread wear resistance.

The materials used in a UHP tire cord are typically denser than standard tires as they are designed for high speeds. There is often an extra layer of nylon for added strength to extend tread life.

3. Pronounced drainage channels

UHPs offer reliable traction in both wet and dry conditions thanks to their longitudinal and transverse drainage channels. This allows for efficient water evacuation from the contact patch, along with massive shoulder blocks for more responsive handling.

What kind of cars are ultra high performance tires suitable for?

Ultra High Performance summer tires can be used on different car models, from sedans like the BMW M3 to crossovers such as the Lamborghini Urus. However, they are mainly used on four-wheel drive sports cars used in racing such as BMW or Porsche.

These modern premium high performance vehicles can travel at high speeds and offer top class steering precision. To meet these demands, the rubber used on such cars must be of high quality and fully meet all the original characteristics specified by the manufacturer. This ensures the vehicle can achieve first-rate performance while maintaining a high degree of safety even at very high speeds.

Benefits of new or used ultra high performance tires

Comfortable driving at high speeds

UHP tires are designed to ensure ride comfort even at the highest speeds. For comparison, while HP tires are usually marked as “H” (up to 130 mph), UHP tires are typically rated with a speed index of “V” (up to 149 mph). At the same time, they provide perfect cornering and short braking distances.

Superior maneuverability  

The quality and high specifications of UHP rubber mean that these tires can be relied on to ensure excellent maneuverability, good grip and precision handling even when put to the test at very high speeds.

3 drawbacks of new or ultra high performance tires 

1. There’s no getting around it —new UHP tires are costly. Many owners of luxury performance cars are still willing to fork out for these expensive tires. But for a more affordable way to enjoy the superior performance that these tires offer, look for the right used ultra high performance tires from our catalogue.
2. The treadlife of UHP tires is shorter than that of standard tires. Drivers using UHP tires should pay extra attention to the tire pressure threshold and wheel tracking.
3. Remember, summer ultra high performance tires are only suitable for a limited range of weather conditions. This type of tire is mostly designed just for summer, so if the climate in your state requires it, you’ll need to buy an extra set of winter tires as well. 

Ultra high performance tires vs high performance tires

Used ultra high performance tires: Utires’ customers choice

With UHP tires gaining popularity, there is an ever expanding range of options to choose from. To help you choose, we have highlighted the most popular UHP tires with our customers. 

1. Continental CrossContact LX Sport TO ContiSilent 110V
2. Toyo Open Country
3. Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 Plus 97V

Check-list: the most important tips on choosing a perfect used ultra high performance tire

A high-performance vehicle with a powerful engine, sports suspension, and reinforced brakes really deserves ultra high performance tires.

• Look for discounted top brands

UHP tires should be your go-to if you are lucky enough to own such a vehicle — especially if the car came equipped with UHP tires and you are looking for replacements. Equipping your performance car with a lesser tire is like making an olympic sprinter wear clogs and expecting them to perform at their best. 

The bad news is, new UPH tires are very expensive. These high quality tires, which feature innovative rubber compounds and computer-designed tread patterns, will set you back up to $1300 for a set of 4 tires. 

The good news is, there is a more affordable way to equip your vehicle with these premium tires without compromising on quality. At Utires.com, you can choose a set of used tires that will cost a fraction of a new set. For example, you can buy a set of 4 used premium Hankook Kinergy GT tires for just $313. A set of 4 used Goodyear Eagle Sport AR Run Flat 103V tires could set you back just $184.

In fact, if you opt to buy used tires, you can pick up a set of high-quality UHP tires for the same amount that a set of moderately priced passenger tires would cost new.

• Opt for “Driven only once” used ultra high performance tires

At Utires.com you can buy used tires that have been driven on just once. There’s tread depth is absolutely the same, like in the new one, but the price can be 20-30% lower compared with new ones. If that sounds like the ticket for you, pick the option “driven once” from the bar on the left side of the page to browse used tires in this category.

• Pay attention to the tread wear of used UHP tires

One important thing to note when buying used UPH tires. UPH tires have a shorter lifespan than conventional all-season tires, so when buying it is crucial to check tread wear very carefully. For an active driving style, the treadwear of a set of UPH tires is limited to around 6,000-18,000 miles. 

To reduce the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads, it is important to choose a used tire  with low tread wear. New tires have 11/32” tread depth. And everything around tha (plenty in our catalogue!) is close to perfection. Drainage grooves in the tread design drain water and improve grip in wet conditions. It is dangerous to drive at high speeds on bald tires in rainy weather.

If you drive mostly in dry conditions and make sure to reduce your speed and be careful during occasional rain, you can buy used tires with tread wear down to 75% of groove depth (8/32”-9/32”) and they will grip just fine on dry roads. Use the bar on the left side of the site to pick a suitable tread depth and browse tires you can drive safely with.

So, now you are up to speed with the necessary info on used ultra high performance tires. Check out Utires.com selection of the best used tires that provide responsive handling at high speeds for your super sport performance car. Just pick the right model, size, speed rating from our tire rack. With a set of quality UHP tires, you’ll soon be ready to enjoy those happy track days! All our tires come with warranty and free shipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are ultra high performance all season tires good?

Yes, ultra high performance all seasons are good, they provide perfect dry and wet traction and allow you to drive in soft-winter conditions, but be aware — for the northern winter, it is safer to use winter tires.

What is the difference between high performance and ultra high performance tires?

Indeed, these categories of tires are close to each other and have a similar purpose — provide perfect handling at high speed. The main difference is on the speed rating — high performance tires marked as H (up to 130 mph), while UPH tires are rated as V (up to 149 mph).

Where can I buy good used ultra high performance tires?

Here at Utires.com, we have a big selection of used ultra high performance tires. Use the search menu to choose the proper vehicle's tire size, check the accessibility of your favorite model, and shop for the suitable tread left. Our customers can get any additional information from the service support team. All our used tires come with a 1-year money-back guarantee, plus free shipping.