Tuesday, February 12, 2019

How to read a tyre


Ever wondered what those numbers and letters mean on the side of the tyre of your ride. Wouldn't it be great to understand and decode like the professionals and know what it all means. Well we think it would be helpful for the users so here it goes.

Tyres have a code system embedded into their sidewall which allows you to understand it's technical capabilities. This code provides information on tyre size, type (e.g. radial/ cross ply),  its load-carrying capacity and its speed rating.
Image result for tyre size markings   Image result for tyre size markings
For example, the code on a common fitment for Sri Lankan cars is:
175/ 65R X 14 95H
175 indicates the nominal section width of the tyre in millimetres ( 175 mm).
65 indicates its aspect ratio, a comparison of the tyre's section height with its section width (65 indicates the height is 65% of its width).
R indicates radial ply construction.
14 indicates the nominal diameter of the wheel rim (14 inches).
95 H is a symbol indicating the maximum load capacity and speed at which the tyre can be safely operated, subject to the tyre being in sound condition, correctly fitted, and with recommended inflation pressures. A tyre speed rating indicates the maximum speed a tyre is legally approved for. 
 (95 represents a maximum load of 690 kg per tyre & H tells the maximum speed which is 210 km/h).
Being aware of your tyres speed rating will allow you to determine the maximum speed your tyre is capable of safely maintaining on the highway. for more information about tyre safety please get in touch.

Some of the ratings with the corresponding maximum speed limits;


  • N: 140   kmph
  • P: 150   kmph
  • Q: 80     kmph
  • R: 170   kmph
  • S: 180   kmph
  • T: 190    kmph
  • U: 200   kmph
  • H: 210   kmph
  • V: 240    kmph
  • Z: 240+  kmph
  • W: 270   kmph
  • Y: 300    kmph

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