Nitto NT555R Extreme Drag Radial Review

Available Sizes: 15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”

• Tread Depth: 1/32”
• Weight: 26.42 – 32.53lbs; dependant on size
• D.O.T. Compliant: Yes
• UTQG Treadwear: 100
• Traction Rating: A
• Temperature Rating: A
• Speed Rating: V (up to 149mph)

Available in sizes ranging from 15” to 20”, the Nitto 555R drag radial tires are designed for rear use only. Additionally, they are intended to be paired with Nitto’s 555 summer performance street tires. With the summer performance street tires on the front axle and the drag radials in the front, this duo has the traction and treads necessary for legal street use. Not only that, but they also have the construction design and reinforcement to perform well at high speeds during recreational races.  

Key Features

• Performance-grade competition tire
• High grip, soft compound with semi-radial construction 
• Reinforced belt structure for optimized traction and stability at high speeds
• Designed to fit modern performance vehicles
• Optimized for use in dry conditions
• Approved for use on public streets as well as racetracks

Made of a soft compound, the Nitto NT555r extreme drag tires are D.O.T. compliant and legal to drive on public roads. This makes them convenient for weekend drag racers who want to be able to drive them to and from a race without problem. 

Additionally, they are also a performance grade set of tires and perform well in terms of speed and stability. With the help of their reinforced belt structure with a semi-radial construction, these tires are suitable for speeds of up to 149mph. This reinforced belt structure also helps to protect the tires from punctures while driving on standard roads. 

The Nitto NT555R tires were designed to maximize traction and grip on dry surfaces; meaning they will perform at their best on dry roads. Additionally, they will also perform better in warmer temperatures. This makes them an ideal choice for use during the summer months or in locations with warmer climates.  

Given the fact that they were designed for dry surfaces in warm temperatures, these tires do not perform as well during colder temperatures. Some performance problems during colder temperatures include reduced traction, loss of flexibility, and an increased risk of damage. Nitto does offer clear guidance for using these tires in colder temperatures (below 15°F). Some of these guidelines include never moving or operating the tires when temperatures reach below 15°F, storing them in an environment above 68°F, and making sure to inspect tires for cracks when the temperature drops. 

In terms of how long these tires will last, Nitto does not provide an expected life or mileage expectancy. However, according to reviews, it is common for drivers to get 15,000 miles out of these tires when used in a daily driver or weekend street car set up. However, this can be much  lower depending on a number of factors including road conditions, temperature, storage facilities, and burnout. 

In terms of price, these tires are considered to have a moderate price point; with the current online retail price per tire being on average between $150.00 – $200.00.