How to Interpret Tire Specifications?
2 Answers
Tire specification parameters represent the tire's width, aspect ratio, tire type, and applicable size. Taking the 225/60R17 model as an example: 1. 225 indicates the tire section width is 225mm; 2. 60 is the aspect ratio, meaning the tire's sidewall height is 60% of the tire section width; 3. R stands for radial tire; 4. 17 indicates the tire is suitable for 17-inch rims. Radial tire: The tread part is reinforced with steel belts, allowing it to withstand higher internal pressure stress, featuring less tread deformation, better ground grip, and stability, making it more suitable for high-speed driving. Nowadays, radial tires are commonly used in passenger cars.
Do you get confused by all those numbers and letters every time you change tires? I used to be the same. That string of codes is actually quite simple. Take 205/55 R16 91V for example: 205 is the tire width in millimeters; 55 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height as a percentage of the width—the higher the number, the better the cushioning; R stands for radial construction, which is standard for most tires today; 16 is the rim diameter in inches; 91 is the load index—don’t exceed the limit specified in your manual; and finally, V is the speed rating, with a maximum speed of 240 km/h. Remember these, and you won’t be fooled when picking new tires.
