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  • Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
  • Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2

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The Pilot Sport Cup 2 is Michelin's Streetable Track & Competition tire originally developed for Original Equipment use on the Ferrari 458 Speciale, Mercedes SLS AMG Coupe Black Series and Porsche 918 Spyder hybrid super sports car. Designed to provide faster circuit times and consistent performance lap after lap, the Pilot Sport Cup 2 allows these supercars to achieve their full potential in dry conditions.

WARNING: Pilot Sport Cup 2 radials meet DOT requirements; however, they are not recommended for driving in wet conditions where standing water is present and there is the risk of hydroplaning; drivers should drive cautiously at reduced speeds if they encounter these conditions. This is especially true of shaved or worn tires. And like other Streetable Track & Competition tires, these tires are not intended to be stored, serviced nor driven in near- or below freezing temperatures, through snow or on ice.

The Pilot Sport Cup 2's tread molds Michelin's Bi-Compound technology into an asymmetric design. Bi-Compound technology features different rubber compounds on the tread's outboard and inboard regions. Massive outboard shoulders feature a tread rubber whose hardness has been specially designed to deliver maximum adherence and outstanding dry grip on curves, especially on tight corners. Notched center ribs and an inboard shoulder use tread rubber featuring a more rigid elastomer to ensure precision steering.

Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires feature Michelin Variable Contact Patch 3.0, an innovation evolved from the Variable Contact Patch 2.0 technology integrated into Pilot Super Sport and Pilot Sport A/S 3 tires. Variable Contact Patch 3.0 maximizes the contact patch size and optimizes its footprint pressure so that more rubber remains in contact with the track when cornering, thereby ensuring superior grip in curves and tight corners.

The tire's internal structure features twin steel belts reinforced by spirally wound Twaron cord. Twaron is a polyamide cord that offers a lightweight, high-strength reinforcement above the steel belts to enhance high-speed durability, handling and wear. Michelin FAZ Technology (Filament At Zero degrees) winds the Twaron cord around the tire circumference, much the same way fishing line is wound onto fishing reels, to allow Michelin engineers to tune tension and strength. The Twaron is applied with variable tension between the shoulders and the center of the tire, and is tightened so firmly that it literally locks the tire structure into a practically inelastic belt. As a result, the tire's footprint remains constant and centrifugal force is effectively controlled, even at very high speeds.

Michelin Pilot® Sport Cup 2 features a polyester casing that combines ride comfort with responsive handling. Its bead region is 10% wider than that of traditional sports tires and is strengthened with a high modulus rubber compound that increases the tire's lateral stiffness and delivers sporty responsiveness, as well as precision steering.

A special mold tooling process has led to the development of Michelin Premium Touch Technology, a process that has made it possible to create more contrast on sections of the outer sidewall using micro-geometry techniques that absorb light. The geometry of the texture permits variable contrast to create shades of black that have the feel of velvet.

NOTE: Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires cannot be mixed with Pilot Sport Cup, Pilot Sport Cup + (Plus), Pilot Sport Cup N-Spec or Pilot Sport Cup ZP run-flat tires.

Related Information: Competition Tire Heat Cycling Service | Shaving Tires for Autocross / Track Use / Competition | Storing Track & Competition DOT Tires in Cold Temperatures

Ratings Charts & Reviews Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2

Tire Category: Streetable Track & Competition

Consumer Surveys

 
Best in Category
Miles Reported
Recommended
Treadwear
Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Good
94%
695K
8.4 - Good
5.5 - Fair
5.3 Hydroplaning Resistance
5.7 Wet Traction
9.4 - Excellent
9.4 Corner Stability
9.5 Dry Traction
9.3 Steering Response
N/A
N/A Light Snow Traction
N/A Deep Snow Traction
N/A Ice Traction
7.6 - Good
7.7 Ride Quality
7.5 Noise
6.5 - Good

Customers Say

Customers think the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 delivers outstanding dry traction with consistent grip, high-speed stability, and precise cornering, making it a top choice for track days and autocross. Wet performance receives cautious feedback, offering decent grip in light rain but struggling with hydroplaning and cold conditions. Treadwear is praised for a track-focused tire, with many users reporting multiple heat cycles and sessions before significant drop-off, though proper pressure management is crucial for optimal longevity.

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141 customers mention "Dry Traction"

  • 141 positive
  • 0 negative

Customers praise the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2's dry traction, with many scoring 9s-10s for outstanding grip, predictable cornering, and lap time improvements on track. Reviews highlight consistent performance at high speeds and heat resilience, though some note rapid wear on camber-challenged setups and sensitivity to pressure management. A few report early tread loss under heavy torque.

October 05, 2015 (Verified Purchase)

3.6 out of 5 Star Rating
3.6 out of 5

These tires have excellent grip on a dry, hot track... Very high grip level. I was able to close in on the spec miatas in the middle of the corners...

These tires have excellent grip on a dry, hot track. I use cold Ft 25# Rr 30#. Hot Ft 32# Rr 36#. Very high grip level. I was able to close in on the spec miatas in the middle of the corners. I drove a spec Miata for years and always complained about the slow Porsches in the corners, but not with these tires. I little noisy during everyday use, but about what I expected. Overall a great tire.

Vehicle: 2015 Porsche 911 GT3 Standard Brakes
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,200
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: LAFAYETTE, LA
Driving Style: Spirited
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September 28, 2015 (Verified Purchase)

4 out of 5 Star Rating
4 out of 5

...Very stable during the stint if you get the initial tire pressure right, has to be kept under 37psi hot.

Great all purpose tire for those taking the car to the track.

Very stable during the stint if you get the initial tire pressure right, has to be kept under 37psi hot.

Vehicle: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Standard Brakes
Miles Driven on Tires: 700
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: HOUSTON, TX
Driving Style: Spirited
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September 17, 2016 (Verified Purchase)

4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

...The performance of the Sport Cup 2 tires is far superior to the Super Sports. I was able to carry more speed through the curves, and took more than 3 seconds off lap times compared to the Super Sports...

I am reviewing PSC2 regarding performance on track during an HPDE. I was using the PSS2 tires that came on my 2014 Corvette. They are great tires and performed well on the track. The performance of the Sport Cup 2 tires is far superior to the Super Sports. I was able to carry more speed through the curves, and took more than 3 seconds off lap times compared to the Super Sports. While its too soon to say much about tire wear, after a 4 hour track day (four hours on track), the tires came out in excellent shape. I have a few more track days before the cold weather sets in. I will update my view of tire performance after those HPDE events.

Vehicle: 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Z51 Package
Miles Driven on Tires: 300
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: CLIFTON PARK, NY
Driving Style: Spirited
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125 customers mention "Treadwear"

  • 69 positive
  • 56 negative

Customers praise treadwear durability through multiple heat cycles and track days, with scores 8-10 noting longer lifespan. Some report rapid outer edge wear and cords showing on camber-challenged setups, but most view them as successful track performers.

May 26, 2021

3.5 out of 5 Star Rating
3.5 out of 5

I got 16400 miles on my original set, I think they were done at 16000. One track day and lots of spirited driving...

I love these tires. I got 16400 miles on my original set, I think they were done at 16000. One track day and lots of spirited driving. Bought another set, and ready to go again.

Vehicle: 2018 Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang
Miles Driven on Tires: 16,400
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: MORENO VALLEY, CA
Driving Style: Spirited
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October 24, 2017 (Verified Purchase)

4.3 out of 5 Star Rating
4.3 out of 5

...Still on my first set in the rear, which has about 1/3-1/4 life left, and my second set of fronts. Camber challenged cars running aggressively, be aware that the soft outer edges will tear if pushed. Running stock camber, I tore through the outer edges down to the cords in three track days - expensive mistake.

Sport Cup 2s offer fantastic grip on track. They are in a completely different category from the Pilot Super Sports and as good if not better, in my experience, than the Dunlop Direzza Star Spec 2. I was about 2-3 seconds fast a lap per lap minute over the PSS. I have just about 6,500 miles on my M2 now with 10 days on the track, driving in the instructor group. Still on my first set in the rear, which has about 1/3-1/4 life left, and my second set of fronts. Camber challenged cars running aggressively, be aware that the soft outer edges will tear if pushed. Running stock camber, I tore through the outer edges down to the cords in three track days - expensive mistake. After adding some negative front camber, about 2.7 degrees, my wear has been much more acceptable but is still prone to tearing. I think the tires are very sensitive to the pressure you run (I believe Michelin recommends 32-33 hot up front) and heat that builds throughout a track session. With better management of pressure/heat, I think I could get a full season, 10 or so aggressive days on track, with a set. Turn in is crisp, the tires offer good audible feedback, and break away smoothly. They get up to temperature within a lap and a half and have consistent grip for 15 or so minutes before starting to slide too much. I have not noticed any heat cycling issues. On street, the tires are a bit noisy and harsh but liveable, although probably overkill for street only purposes. In this scenario, PSS is a better choice. They offer very good grip in the wet but are prone to hydroplaning in standing water. Once this set is done, I may consider buying another set .

Vehicle: 2017 BMW M2
Miles Driven on Tires: 3,000
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: NEW YORK, NY
Driving Style: Spirited
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August 11, 2014 (Verified Purchase)

3.6 out of 5 Star Rating
3.6 out of 5

...Customers note: " Wear seems very good so far, on par with an RS-3, much better than the DSMR."

Amazing stability and consistency as speeds rise- felt like different dampers at speed as the car is much less upset by mid corner bumps. Downside: also felt like a slower steering rack. I've previously run Michelin PS2, PSS, Hankook RS-3 and Dunlop Sport Maxx Race on the car.

They require heat- at an autocross 3 passes are needed for max performance at 80F ambient. Temps are very even on the 1M at 36 psi. They handle heat well, better than the RS-3. Overheating is possible with effort- over 150F they get greasy.

Turn-in is poor- if you don't like the soft sidewall feel of the PSS you'll hate it. Steering feels heavy and dead until the car takes a set, and I had to be *very* early attack slaloms and apexes. Once set the tires become more responsive and precise.

Flip side: high grip and amazing stability. Grip is consistent and slides easy to catch, encouraging you to push. An RS-3 is nearly as forgiving, but would get much more out of shape. Grip is progressive and never "washes out"- balance is maintained close to neutral even when you get one end sliding, but this does reduce some "seat of the pants" feedback. The combination allows serious speed- once hot the tires are faster than anything else I've run on the car, or likely anything with a 180 treadwear rating.

For the big track stability and consistency of grip is exactly what you want, and these are well suited, but less so for the autocross. They work well on camber challenged cars, but may want front toe out to help turn-in on cars not designed for them. For the AX RS-3s are more fun, with better turn-in and a more playful demeanor, but ultimately slower if these get hot.

Overall very good competition tires, and the high-speed stability they impart is also much appreciated even on the freeway drive home. Ride and road noise aren't much worse than a PSS, and damp grip is very good if it's warm. Wear seems very good so far, on par with an RS-3, much better than the DSMR.

Vehicle: 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: null, null
Driving Style: Spirited
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100 customers mention "Wet Traction"

  • 40 positive
  • 60 negative

Customers highlight concerns with wet traction, noting mixed results even when fresh. While some report manageable grip in light rain, most warn of hydroplaning risks in standing water and significant performance drop-offs as tread wears. Wet driving requires extreme caution, with several reviews emphasizing unpredictable behavior and reduced safety margins.

February 14, 2024 (Verified Purchase)

4.1 out of 5 Star Rating
4.1 out of 5

...Forget about wet traction and handling. Would never drive this in the rain!

This is THE tire for the GT3. Forget about wet traction and handling. Would never drive this in the rain! This car is for driving Los Angeles Forest Highway from Sunland to Palmdale. Moderate to very aggressive driving depending on conditions. The car came with Pirelles which were very good, but these are even better. When these tires get worn down, they are really loud. I was shocked how much quieter and smooth the ride was after the new set. This is the second set I have installed. 5,000 miles if I am lucky and no mileage guarantee. The harder you push it, the better the grip. I run 31 PSI all around for more control. STAY SAFE!!

Vehicle: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Standard Brakes
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: CHATSWORTH, CA
Driving Style: Spirited
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April 02, 2017 (Verified Purchase)

4.1 out of 5 Star Rating
4.1 out of 5

...but good thing its not my daily driver in the rain its horrid.

These Tires are like a Gift From --- for Cars !!! the grip is insane once its warmed up. but good thing its not my daily driver in the rain its horrid.

Vehicle: 2015 Subaru WRX STi
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: ALHAMBRA, CA
Driving Style: Spirited
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September 06, 2021 (Verified Purchase)

3.3 out of 5 Star Rating
3.3 out of 5

...The performance in the wet is terrible compared to the Dunlops. Same for the performance when cool. In 50 degree weather be careful. These tires have no grip...

Replaced the factory Dunlops with these on my GT3. Very solid tire but felt like it was a step back from the Dunlops. I do street driving plus track. The performance in the wet is terrible compared to the Dunlops. Same for the performance when cool. In 50 degree weather be careful. These tires have no grip. I've had the car unexpectedly move out from under me. They are very good performers on the track although not noticeably better or worse than the OEM Dunlops. The Dunlops are more expensive. Nevertheless, I'm going back to them and won't be buying the SC2s. Street performance for the Dunlops is far superior and track performance seems to be about the same.

Vehicle: 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 Standard Brakes
Miles Driven on Tires: 3,000
Driving Conditions: Track/Autocross
Location: PALATINE, IL
Driving Style: Spirited
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Consumer Reviews

Media Gallery

Ignition Porsche Cayman GT4 Hot Lap (03:32)

The car everyone has been waiting for: the 2015 Porsche Cayman GT4. And it begs to be driven on the race track. So Motor Trend Ignition's Randy Pobst took it for "one heckuva lap" on the Streets of Willow to see what the Cayman and its Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires could do. Watch in this Tire Rack Head 2 Head Hot Lap.

Head 2 Head Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R Hot Lap (04:57)

We're in the middle of the desert at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, with no one around to complain about any noise, because Motor Trend Head 2 Head's Randy Pobst is in the ‘16 Mustang Shelby GT350R, and it's LOUD.

Its Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, developed by Ford and Michelin, have to manage this beast's 500+ horsepower right where the rubber meets the road.

Head 2 Head 2015 Porsche 911 GT3 Hot Laps (03:38)

Big Willow, the fastest road in the West, is a great playground for Motor Trend Head 2 Head's Randy Pobst. Three-cups-of-coffee-wired fun, in fact, driving the 2015 Porsche 911 GT3! Its higher level of performance requires a tire with grip to match. So the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 it is. We put it to the test during this Hot Lap at the Streets of Willow.

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