Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review 2024

Specifications

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ tire is available in a wide range of sizes, from 16 inches to 20 inches. This wide range provides the best fit for a variety of vehicles. Moreover you can also choose the tire size that best meets your vehicle’s needs.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is equipped with an asymmetric tread pattern, which means there are distinct differences between the inner and outer parts of the tire.

But why does it matter? Well, when you’re aiming for high-speed driving, seeking top-notch performance, and striving for better cornering abilities, it’s the outer portion of the tire that takes center stage. 

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ features a densely arranged tread blocks with biting edges and full-depth 3D interlocking sipes which enhances the tire’s grip across varying seasons.

To make sure the tire performs equally well in wet, Bridgestone intelligently incorporated four wide circumferential grooves and open shoulder slots, which help in resisting hydroplaning by channeling water, mud, dirt, and puddles away from the contact patch while the high sipe density provides more traction in wet roads.

To add the cherry on top the asymmetric design with noise-optimised tread pattern balances wet and dry conditions with ease. These features help counterbalance the reduced traction.

So, does this translate to exceptional wet performance? Discover the wet testing results to uncover the answer firsthand.

The Potenza RE980AS+ sticks to the road, and it’s just not me telling that, but the consumers have also been giving their feedback on how the tires hug the road.

The secret to that is the lateral slots feature chamfered edges. Not only does it enhance dry braking capabilities, but it also contributes to the overall stability and control of the tires. 

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+’s internal construction is designed to provide a balance of handling response and ride comfort, with three polyester sidewall plies and two polyester tread plies.

Maintenance Indicators

Being on the same series as the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS, the RE980AS+ does not have a built-in maintenance indicator.   

It is important to consistently monitor your tires using a tread depth gauge, regardless of whether or not the tire has built-in indicators.

While built-in indicators serve to alert you when the tires reach their minimum tread depth, regular monitoring allows you to stay informed and proactive.

By monitoring regularly, you can find out signs of wear or damage beforehand and take action before they escalate.

Different Season Performance Testing Results

Bridgestone – Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Dry Performance

The dry performance of the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is truly impressive. Its unique design, including lateral slots with chamfered edges and an asymmetric, noise-optimised tread pattern, adds an extra layer of excellence. It’s no surprise that the series of Potenza tires have a strong reputation for effortlessly handling dry roads.

While driving on dry the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+, I could feel the exceptional grip and how it hugged the road while giving utmost traction and stability. Moreover, on cornering, I didn’t feel any vibration or harshness.

The responsiveness was excellent, and I felt like driving over to the Dalton highway and experiencing its never-ending corners. Well, I wish to do that soon. 

I am amazed by how this tire wronged me in many areas. On testing it on the track, I enjoyed watching how the tires made me feel every rotation of the wheel. 

Although the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is not highly capable of tracks due to its average performance on the track, and it made me feel like it has got the performance in it, it is more influenced and leans towards an all-season UHP blending all seasons adequately. 

While the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ may not excel on tracks due to its average performance, it left me with a distinct impression. It felt like this tire had untapped potential, hinting at its inherent performance capabilities.

However, it leans more towards being an all-season ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire, skillfully blending the qualities required for all seasons. Despite not being specifically designed for tracks, it strikes a balance by adequately catering to the needs of daily and casual drivers.

During the dry track test, the Potenza proved to be the slowest among the four tires, securing the last position. However, it’s important to know that the Potenza still possesses its own strengths and advantages.

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Snow And Ice Performance

On testing the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ on the snow track, I must say I was impressed by the generous amount of grip it provided. Cornering became a breeze and a lot of fun.

Although it tended to slide out a bit quicker, it’s hard to argue with the level of grip it offered. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that its grip on ice doesn’t quite measure up to that of a dedicated winter tire.

Believe it or not, this tire turned out to be the fastest among the three compared to the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+. It’s truly amazing how Bridgestone not only made promises but also delivered exceptional light snow traction and grip, surpassing its predecessors.

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ not only claimed the top rank in snow speed but also excelled in braking performance, taking the first position. It’s quite remarkable, isn’t it?

If your area typically enjoys mild winters with minimal snowfall, then the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ could indeed serve as an excellent tire choice for year-round use.

During winter or colder days, if the vehicle hasn’t been driven for a while, the tires may initially feel like they have flat spots. However, this issue is easily resolved by simply driving the vehicle for a little while.

It’s worth mentioning that when driving in extreme snow, executing turns at moderate speeds may cause the rear end to fishtail at times. However, it is possible to regain control, albeit with the need for slower and more cautious driving in such conditions.

Overall, the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ has shown significant improvements in snow handling and traction, making it a reliable choice for challenging winter conditions.

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Wet Performance

On testing the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ in the wet track, I was not so amazed, but yes, it also didn’t disappoint me. While there was some block movement observed, the initial steering response was acceptable. However, the turning stability during mid-cornering proved to be the weakest among its competitors.

It is worth noting that while the tire showcased high performance in snowy conditions, its performance on dry surfaces may be somewhat compromised.

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Off Road Performance

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is an ultra high-performance tire which means it has been designed with a focus to perform better on the paved road and offer a balance of snow, wet and dry, while not compromising traction, comfort, and handling. 

Off-roading in the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ can result in reduced traction on paved roads, increased wear, and high heat generation. All in all, it is better to avoid off-roading on the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+.

Features And Their Performance

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Noise And Comfort

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ not only handles fantastic and looks amazing, but it also impresses with its quiet performance. Even while driving, it reduces noise effectively, creating a calm and quiet experience on the road. Despite being a sports-oriented performance tire, it stands out by offering a quiet and comfortable ride.

A bunch of consumers have rated this tire as outstanding in terms of noise and comfort. It excels in ride quality, surpassing expectations and rivaling the best state-of-the-art grand-touring tires.

There is no tire squealing even when pushing them to the edge of traction in corners thanks to the polyester sidewall plies, which help in absorbing road noise and vibrations, contributing to a more comfortable ride.

The bridgestone – potenza re980as+ noise cancellation is excellent and I am satisfied with the calmness it provides.

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Tread Wear And Durability

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ has been manufactured with excellent tread wear and durability thanks to its robust internal structure and improved all-season rubber tread compound.

After driving considerable distances, many consumers have reviewed the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ to be exceptionally reliable in terms of tread wear and durability.

Bridgestone excels in this aspect, ensuring that they do not compromise on the longevity and durability of their tires, especially in highly competitive categories like ultra-high-performance all-season tires. 

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Availability And Pricing 

The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is a highly regarded tire that enjoys widespread acceptance. Resellers consistently stock the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ and eagerly anticipate future updates from the brand.

Bridgestone has consistently demonstrated its excellence and credibility, earning warm reception and approval from resellers and industry experts alike.

Despite its impressive performance, traction, comfort, and stability, the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ is surprisingly affordable and costs less when compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 and Continental Extreme Contact DWS 06 Plus. 

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Acceleration And Breaking

When it comes to the UHP all-season tires, acceleration is breaking are paramount. I am not a fan of the acceleration of the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+.

The braking system is hands down amazing. It even outperformed its competitors and claimed the top spot in braking performance. While driving at high speeds slight humming sound can be heard at times although it is not a significant concern.

The acceleration still has room for improvement, but it goes well with the break that the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ has incorporated.

Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ Review: Warranty

To instill confidence in consumers, the Potenza RE980AS+ comes with a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty. This warranty not only reflects the consumer’s trust but also showcases Bridgestone’s commitment to designing tires that deliver long-lasting performance.

It demonstrates the level of confidence and assurance that Bridgestone provides to customers regarding the quality and durability of their tire products.