BFGoodrich Phenom T/A Tire Review: Performance & Grip

Introducing the BFGoodrich Phenom T/A

The BFGoodrich Phenom T/A is designed to outbrake numerous competitors on wet roads, including the Yokohama Advan Apex V601, Falken Azenis FK510, Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2, and the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500. It’s the latest G-Force tire from BFGoodrich, built for both wet and dry handling.

First Impressions on a Wet Track

Initial track sessions took place in light-to-moderate rain, on a saturated track. The Phenom is a W-rated tire with tight sidewalls that work with the shoulder blocks to aid cornering grip. BFGoodrich sees these tires as an essential component of the suspension, incorporating some flexibility for on-road comfort.

Track Testing and Performance

Testing was conducted with Skip Barber Racing School at Sonoma, using S197 Mustang GT school cars. A touch of rain remained for the second session, but the skies finally cleared on day two for some dry laps. The Phenoms were moderately progressive at the limit and didn’t simply turn to slippery goo when warm. It was very easy to feel understeer in the Mustang’s wheel, and when the back stepped out, the loss of grasp was progressive.

Skidpad and Autocross Impressions

Off the track, EcoBoost Mustangs were used on wet and dry skid pads to explore understeer and oversteer. The Phenoms have grip, dry or wet. The Phenoms were moderately progressive at the limit and didn’t simply turn to slippery goo when warm.

Aesthetics, Pricing, and Compound

The Phenom is billed as a solid summer performance tire with a stylish tread and sidewall. BFGoodrich targets enthusiasts who enjoy track days, cruises, and car shows. Prices range from $140 to $230 per tire, depending on size. The tire compound is a silica-infused recipe combining nearly 200 ingredients, with a focus on braking performance in wet and dry conditions.

On-Road Feel and Handling

The Phenom offers excellent damp grip. Approaching turn 7 at 90 mph felt secure, with no hint of hydroplaning. The Phenom strikes a great equilibrium between dry grasp, impressive damp grip, and predictability. It’s manageable when exceeding its limits, and offers a good balance for autocross and occasional track days.

Final Verdict

The Phenom replaces the G-Force Sport Comp 2. It drops the old directional tread for an asymmetrical pattern with distinct dry and wet zones. The Phenons certainly have grasp, dry or wet. For someone not interested in having a dedicated set of race tires, I can see these being good for a few autocrosses and the occasional track day in the middle of everyday driving tasks. Remember that this is a summer-only tire that doesn’t perform well listed below 40 degrees, never mind snow. And with its efficiency focus, BFGoodrich supplies no treadwear guarantee.