
BFGoodrich has announced the g-Force Rival+, a new 200-treadwear summer tire positioned as the endurance-oriented counterpart to the established g-Force Rival S. The Rival+ targets drivers who want predictable, consistent performance over longer stints with enhanced wet handling, while the Rival S remains the brand’s dry-grip specialist for autocross, time attack and time-trial use.
Positioning: Rival+ vs Rival S
- Rival+: New compound focused on consistency lap after lap, long-lasting performance and wet-handling capability for endurance-style track events.
- Rival S: Enhanced “S” compound tuned for extreme dry performance, quick warm-up, and “Super 200” autocross and time-attack applications, while still meeting UTQG 200.
Both tires share BFGoodrich’s Performance Racing Core (PRC) construction designed to reduce sidewall flex and improve steering response.
Key technical takeaways
- Consistency: The Rival+ is engineered to maintain grip characteristics through a stint, aiming to reduce or eliminate mid-session tire changes without sacrificing pace.
- Predictability: BFGoodrich highlights progressive, confidence-inspiring behaviour at the limit for the Rival+.
- Wet capability: Internal testing indicates the Rival+ delivered faster wet autocross lap times than the Hankook Ventus RS4 in 245/40R17 on a 2011 Honda Civic Si. Results may vary, and no broader independent comparison has been released.
Based on internal BFGoodrich wet autocross tests on a 2011 Honda Civic SI with BFGoodrich g-Force Rival + tire versus Hankook Ventus RS4 tire in tire size 245/40R17, the new Rival+ produced faster wet handling lap times. Actual on-road results may vary.
Sizes and availability
BFGoodrich states there are 14 sizes across the Rival+ and Rival S ranges currently available. Standard manufacturing tolerances apply to section width and overall diameter, and tread patterns can vary by size within the line.
Consumer considerations
- Use case: Choose Rival+ for endurance-leaning track days or mixed-weather events; choose Rival S if outright dry grip and fast warm-up are the priority for short, sprint-style runs.
- Warranty: The Rival+ is listed with a 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee and a 6-year standard limited warranty (see BFGoodrich for full terms).
For more tire news and comparisons, explore our latest track and UUHP coverage on TireReviews.com.