What is Tyre Speed Rating?
Published on: Monday, 01 June 2020 | Author: Bradley Jando
If this is your first time buying new tyres, you may be wondering what a tyre speed rating is. Our guide explains what it means and why it’s important.
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Important: We recommend that customers check the tyre size on the side wall of the existing tyre before proceeding.
Tip: Take a photo of your existing tyre sidewall so you can compare this to the sizes listed here.
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Your tyre size can be found on the sidewall of your current tyre and is a sequence of numbers and letters. The most common tyre size in the UK is 205/55R16 but there are many variations so it's important to check your existing tyre or to check your vehicle handbook to ensure the right tyre size has been installed.
Tyre Width
The first three digits. This displays the width of the tyre in millimetres. A tyre marked 225 will measure 225mm across the tread from sidewall to sidewall.
Aspect Ratio
The fourth and fifth digits of the tyre code that immediately follow the tyre width. The aspect ratio or profile height of the tyre sidewall is expressed as a percentage of the tyre width. So an aspect ratio of 55 for example means that the profile height of the tyre is 55% of its width.
Rim Diameter
The next two digits represent the size of the wheel rim that the tyre can be fitted to. It is also the diameter of the tyre from bead to bead. So a tyre marked 16 will fit on a 16-inch wheel rim.
Speed Rating
The speed rating of a tyre is represented by a letter of the alphabet at the end of the tyre size code and indicates the maximum speed capability of the tyre. Tyres receive a speed rating based on a series of tests which measure the tyres capability to handle a set speed for a prolonged period of time.
Select your tyre speed rating to find out the maximum speed your tyres can maintain.
Max Speed
If you are unsure what speed rating you need, be sure to check your vehicle handbook. Choosing a lower speed rating than that recommended by your vehicle manufacturer could potentially invalidate your insurance.
Still unsure? Why not book a free tyre check and our technicians will inspect your tyres and let you know which tyres are suitable for your vehicle.