Vitour P1 vs. Gripmax Puregrip RS Asymmetry: Real-World Test Results
When it comes to performance tires, not all compounds are created equal—and we’ve got track data to prove it.
Austin Kirk put the Vitour Tempesta P1 head-to-head with a new semi-slick tire from China: the Gripmax Puregrip RS Asymmetry 80tw. This comparison offered a firsthand look at how far the Vitour P1 has come—and where some new entrants are still catching up.
Behind the Test
During a visit to China, I stopped by the Gripmax office—coincidentally in the same parking lot as Vitour. After some conversations at SEMA with their team, we arranged to bring in a few samples for real-world testing to see how their product stacks up.
Gripmax is brand new to the semi-slick game. From what I gathered, they operate more as a private label brand than a tire developer. That means they rely on off-the-shelf compounds and contract manufacturing—without investing in proprietary compound development. Based on the design elements, it's likely they use high-end VMI machines and Himile molds, similar to other brands in the “super 200” category. But again, it’s the compound that makes all the difference.
As Shane Yang from Nankang shared with me at SEMA: “If a factory had a truly exceptional compound, they’d keep it for themselves.” That stuck with me. Because unlike off-the-shelf solutions, the Vitour P1’s P-01R compound is the result of years of R&D and remains a closely guarded trade secret.
Track Test at Podium Club
Austin started the test with Gripmax’s most promising option: the 80 TW asymmetrical Puregrip RS, which bears a visual resemblance to the Bridgestone RE71RS. Unfortunately, the resemblance ends there.
His feedback? The tires were “not confidence-inspiring.” After just two laps at Podium Club in Arizona, they began to overheat. By the end of two sessions, one tire had already worn down to the wear bars.
Then he bolted on the Vitour P1—same car, same conditions. Despite already having around five track days of use, the P1 posted a fastest lap seven seconds quicker than the brand-new Gripmax set.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just a test of two tires—it was a test of what investment in R&D actually delivers. The Vitour P1 continues to prove it’s not just another budget-friendly import. It’s a purpose-built racing tire that delivers results, lap after lap.
To be fair, we welcome more competition in the space. Hopefully, Gripmax takes this data as an opportunity to refine and improve. But for now, their semi-slick falls short—ranking below even budget offerings like Accelera in our experience.
We’ll continue sharing honest test results as we get our hands on new products. Until then, the P1 continues to lead the pack.
